The Story of the Poor Brahmin
One influential story involves a clear poor Brahmin who gained wealth and prosperity by faithfully observing the Monday fast and worshipping Lord Shiva. Another legend relates to Goddess Parvati observing this fast to have Lord Shiva as her husband. It is highly revered for domestic peace and granting wishes.
Spiritual Benefit: Peace of mind, removal of negative karma, and divine blessings.
Allowed (Satvik)
- Water and Juices
- Milk and Milk Products
- Fruits
- Kheer (Sweet Rice Pudding - if eating once)
- Sathvik food (one meal typically allowed in evening)
Restricted (Tamasic)
- Salt (some strict observers avoid common salt, use Rock Salt)
- Grains (if strictly fasting)
- Spices (excessive)
- Sour foods
Fasting Variants
Full Fast: No solid food until next morning.
Partial Fast: Eating one Sathvik meal after sunset puja.
Monday is Lord Shiva's day. Wearing white is considered auspicious.
Step-by-Step Worship
- Visit a Shiva temple in the morning or perform puja at home.
- Perform Jalabhishek (offering water) or Rudrabhishek (milk/honey/curd) on the Shiva Linga.
- Apply Bhasma (sacred ash) and offer Bel Patra (Bilva leaves).
- Chant "Om Namah Shivaya" 108 times.
- Read the Somvar Vrat Katha.
- Perform Aarti.
Mantra to Chant
Om Namah Shivaya
Required Samagri
Water, Raw Milk, Bel Patra, Dhatura Flowers, White Flowers, Bhasma, Incense
Breaking the Fast (Parana)
If observing a full fast, break it on Tuesday morning. If observing partial, eat calm sathvik food after evening puja.
Timing Note: Ensure the evening prayers are completed before consuming food.