Annamalaiyar Temple - Agni Lingam
Agni lingam is the second among the most holy eight
lingams (Ashta lingam) in Thiruvannamalai. This lingam is situated on the south
east direction of the Thiruvannamalai Mountain. It is placed near the Lotus
tank.
This is the only lingam placed on right side of the circumambulation
path, all other lingams are placed on left side, It occupies the South
East direction, worshipping here retrieves us from all diseases and to face
challenges of life. It is situated close to Seshadri Ashram on Chengam road.
Creation
God Agni had installed the Lingam here and worshiped
Lord Shiva at this place. Lord Agni is portrayed with seven tongues and seven
hands. Agni's dominion is the fire or thirst for knowledge. Performance of
Homam invokes Lord Agni who rides on Saga a sacrificial beast in Homam fires.
Speciality
Lord Brahma and Thirumal had worshipped this Lingam.
Worshippers here believe that worshipping the Agni Lingam cures sins and
provides good health. They also believe that worshipping helps them to encounter
life’s many difficulties. Lord Chandra (Moon) is the dominant Navagraha of Agni
Lingam.
Lord Agni is the God of the fire of Knowledge. He has
seven hands and seven tongues. Agni is the light of the lives of all creatures
and is invoked in the performance of Homa. His vehicle is the goat Saga who
serves as the sacrificial beast in the fires of Homa.
Worshipping this Lingam helps devotees get relief from
disease, to maintain good health and also helps them face problems and difficulties
in their lives.
Navagraha
Agni Lingam’s dominant Navagraha (dominant planetary
body) is Chandra or the Moon.
Location
Unlike the other seven Lingams which are located on Girivalam
path’s left side, the Agni lingam is located on the Girivalam path’s right. The
Lotus Tank and Seshadri Ashram on Chengam road are prominent landmarks near
this Lingam. Agni Lingam is located between 1.3 km to 1.5 km from the
Arunachaleswarar Temple.
Geographical Position
Agni Lingam in Thiruvannamalai is located at
12°13'27.1"N 79°03'32.9"E or 12.224201, 79.059133.