The Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat, is not only the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva but also one of the most storied temples in Indian history. Its history is a rich blend of mythology, sacred texts, invasions, and national revival. Below is a detailed account divided into key phases.
Mythological Origins of Somnath
According to the Shiva Purana and Skanda Purana, the story of Somnath begins with the Moon God, Chandra. Married to the 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati, Chandra showed partiality to Rohini. Angered, Daksha cursed him to fade and lose his glow. Seeking redemption, Chandra performed penance at Prabhas Teerth, worshipping Lord Shiva.
Moved by his devotion, Shiva restored his radiance and took the name Somnath, meaning “Protector of the Moon.” This divine event marked the site as the first Jyotirlinga and gave it timeless sanctity.
Somnath in Ancient Texts
The temple is mentioned in several ancient scriptures:
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Rigveda: Refers to the deity as Shivlinga at Prabhas.
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Shiva Purana: Lists Somnath as the foremost Jyotirlinga.
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Skanda Purana: Describes the penance of Chandra and sanctity of the site.
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Mahabharata: Mentions Prabhas Kshetra as the place where Lord Krishna renounced his mortal form.
These references confirm that Somnath was revered since Vedic times, making it a crucial site in India’s spiritual geography.
Early Constructions of Somnath
Legends describe multiple constructions of the temple:
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Built in gold by Soma (Moon God).
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Rebuilt in silver by Ravana.
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Constructed in wood by Lord Krishna.
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Finally built in stone by King Bhimdev of the Solanki dynasty.
These symbolic accounts show how Somnath was cherished across different yugas (ages) and dynasties.
Role in Medieval India
Somnath became renowned for its wealth and grandeur, making it a target for repeated invasions:
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Mahmud of Ghazni (1024 AD): Infamously plundered the temple, carrying away treasures and destroying the structure. Despite this, it was rebuilt by Hindu kings soon after.
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Subsequent Raids: The armies of Alauddin Khilji and later rulers damaged the temple in the 13th–15th centuries.
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Portuguese Era (16th century): The temple suffered partial destruction again under Portuguese influence near the Gujarat coast.
Yet, each time it was desecrated, Somnath rose again—earning its title as the “Shrine Eternal.”
Modern Nationalist Movement and Somnath
The turning point in Somnath’s history came in the 20th century. After India’s independence, the temple became a symbol of cultural revival.
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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1947–1950): Initiated the plan to rebuild Somnath as a marker of India’s unity and resilience.
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K. M. Munshi: Continued Patel’s mission, ensuring the temple’s reconstruction in traditional Chalukya style.
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Consecration in 1951: On 11 May 1951, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, performed the Prana-Pratishtha ceremony of the Jyotirlinga.
Dr. Prasad emphasized that Somnath represented not only faith but also the eternal spirit of Indian civilization.
Architectural Highlights of the Present Temple
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Built in Chalukya style, 155 feet tall.
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Seven-tiered structure with finely carved stonework.
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Overlooks the Arabian Sea, making its location both spiritual and scenic.
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A massive flag atop the temple is changed three times daily, symbolizing continuity of faith.
Symbolism of Somnath Jyotirlinga
Somnath’s repeated destruction and reconstruction reflect India’s resilience. It represents:
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Eternal faith in Lord Shiva.
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National pride and cultural identity.
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A spiritual pilgrimage site granting moksha (liberation).
For devotees and historians alike, Somnath is both a shrine and a living monument of India’s endurance.
Conclusion
The Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple is not merely a site of worship but a saga of devotion, resistance, and revival. From its mythological origins in the Vedic age to its role in medieval invasions, and finally to its reconstruction during modern India’s nationalist movement, Somnath embodies the indestructible spirit of faith.
Visiting Somnath today allows pilgrims to connect not only with Lord Shiva but also with the profound history of India’s cultural resilience.