The Somnath Temple, located on the western coast of Gujarat in the town of Prabhas Patan, is not just a monument of religious significance, but also a symbol of resilience and regeneration. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, shrines where Shiva is worshipped in the form of a radiant column of light. The history of Somnath spans thousands of years, reflecting the turbulent history of India itself. This temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, and its journey through time is a testament to the indomitable spirit of faith and devotion.
The Legend Behind Somnath
The legend of Somnath is rooted in ancient Hindu mythology. It is believed that the temple was originally built by Chandra (the Moon God). According to mythology, Chandra was cursed by his father-in-law, Daksha, to wane in brightness. To rid himself of the curse, Chandra prayed to Lord Shiva at the site where Somnath now stands. Moved by his devotion, Shiva restored Chandra’s brilliance and decreed that he would periodically wane and wax, thus creating the lunar cycle. In gratitude, Chandra built the first temple at Somnath, which came to be known as Someshwar, or the “Lord of the Moon.”
Early History and Architectural Brilliance
The first Somnath Temple is said to have been built in gold by Chandra, followed by subsequent reconstructions in silver by Ravana, in wood by Krishna, and finally in stone by the Solanki kings. Historically, the stone temple built by the Maitrakas of Vallabhi in the 7th century is one of the earliest documented versions of the Somnath Temple. This stone structure, which reflected the grandeur of ancient Indian temple architecture, became a major pilgrimage site and attracted devotees from across the subcontinent.
The architecture of Somnath, like many other temples in Gujarat, is an example of Nagara style, characterized by a towering Shikhara (spire) and intricately carved walls. The sanctum sanctorum houses the Shivalinga, which is the focal point of worship. The temple complex is adorned with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and celestial beings, reflecting the rich iconography of Hinduism. The intricate carvings, pillared halls, and ornate gateways are all testaments to the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of ancient India.
The Destruction and Rebirth of Somnath
Somnath’s strategic location near the Arabian Sea made it a wealthy temple, attracting traders and pilgrims, but also invaders. Over the course of its history, the temple was attacked and destroyed six times, most notably by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 CE. Ghazni’s invasion is one of the most infamous chapters in Somnath’s history, as he looted the temple’s wealth and razed it to the ground. However, the temple was rebuilt soon after, symbolizing the undying spirit of the devotees.
In the centuries that followed, Somnath was destroyed by Alauddin Khilji and other Muslim rulers, yet each time, it was rebuilt by Hindu kings and local rulers, including the Chaulukyas (Solanki dynasty) in the 12th century. This cycle of destruction and reconstruction transformed Somnath into a symbol of resistance and faith, representing the eternal battle between destruction and regeneration.
The Modern Rebirth
The present-day Somnath Temple is the seventh structure to stand on this sacred site. After centuries of invasions and devastation, the temple was finally rebuilt in 1951, under the guidance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister, and K.M. Munshi, a noted freedom fighter and scholar. The temple was rebuilt in the Chalukya style of architecture, using materials from nearby sources and incorporating traditional architectural motifs.
The modern temple stands majestically by the Arabian Sea, with its Shikhara soaring 150 feet into the sky. The Jyotirlinga in the temple’s sanctum is worshipped daily by thousands of devotees who come to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. The temple complex also houses a museum that chronicles the temple’s long and tumultuous history, showcasing its religious and architectural importance.
Somnath and Its Spiritual Significance
The Somnath Temple is not just a religious site but also a symbol of the cyclical nature of existence, embodying the concept of creation, destruction, and rebirth. In Hindu philosophy, Lord Shiva is seen as the cosmic destroyer who paves the way for new creation, and Somnath’s repeated reconstructions after destruction symbolize this cosmic principle.
The temple also represents the idea of resilience. Despite being destroyed multiple times, Somnath has always risen from its ashes, more magnificent than before. This spirit of endurance and renewal is what draws millions of devotees and visitors to Somnath every year.
Conclusion
The Somnath Temple’s journey through time is a reflection of India’s spiritual resilience and cultural endurance. From its mythological origins to its modern-day incarnation, the temple has stood as a symbol of devotion, strength, and regeneration. The magnificence of its architecture, combined with its deep-rooted spiritual significance, makes Somnath a must-visit for those seeking to explore the essence of India’s religious and architectural heritage.
