Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple – Devi Lingam
While Lord Shiva was teaching the Pranava Mantra to
Mother Parvathi, Muruga sitting on the lap of Mother also was also listening.
Any lesson should be learnt from the Guru in a proper way. To make amends for the
mistake, Lord Muruga performed penance here. Lord gave darshan to his beloved
Son on a Thaipoosam day. This Shiva shrine is in a separate shrine in the name
of Aadhi Chokkanathar. Those visiting Tiruparankundram should worship this
Shiva first according to tradition. But as the temple is the first army camp
temple of Lord Muruga, traditions changed in later days.
During the festival times, flag hoisting is done only
for Lord Shiva, but Lord Muruga is taken in procession. As Lord Muruga is no
less than Lord Shiva, it is said that this procedure is followed. Lord Muruga
is also known here as Somasubramaniar (Soma-Shiva, Subramaniar-Muruga). Lord
Muruga graces as Somaskanda with Shiva and Parvathi in the sanctum sanctorum
behind the Shivalinga. It is also said that Lord Shiva graced Durga granting
her relief from a curse.
As this Shivalinga was installed by Durga Devi, the
Linga is known as Devi Lingam. As the Linga is treated with a paste called
Shantakaram, no abishekam is performed to him except offering oil. Sages Veda
Vyasa and Parasara had worshipped in this temple.
