Shiv Chalisa: Full Text and Meaning Explained

Shiv Chalisa is a remarkable hymn dedicated to the glory, power and compassion of Lord Shiva. The 40 verses beautifully describe Lord Shiva's various forms, his character, his benevolence towards his devotees and his power to eliminate all forms of suffering. Reciting Shiv Chalisa not only brings mental peace, spiritual strength and positive energy but it also opens the path for Lord Shiva's blessings, removal of sins and the path to salvation. Let us explore the complete recitation of Shiv Chalisa along with the meaning of each verse.

Shiv Chalisa - Recitation and Meaning

Doha

Shri Ganesh Girija Suvan, Mangal Mool Sujan.
Kath Ayodhya Das Tum, Dehu Abhay Var Dan.

Meaning

O Ganesh, son of Parvati, you are the source of all auspiciousness and wisdom. Ayodhya Das (the poet) seeks from you the blessings of fearlessness and well-being.

Part 1

Jai Girija Pati Din Dayala. Sada Kart Santan Pratipala.
Bhaal Chandrama Sohat Neke. Kanan Kundal Nagaphani Ke.
Ang Gaur Shir Gang Bahaye. Mundmal Tan Chaar Lagaye.
Vastra Khaal Baaghambar Sohe. Chhavi Ko Dekh Naag Muni Mohe.
Maina Maatu Ki Hwai Dulaari. Baam Ang Sohat Chhavi Nyari.
Kar Trishul Sohat Chhavi Bhaari. Kart Sada Shatrun Kshaya Kaari.

Meaning

O Lord Shiva, you are the one who is always kind to the helpless. You protect the devotees at all times. You have the moon on your forehead, earrings of snake flowers in your ears, a fair complexion, Ganga flowing from your head and a garland of skulls around your neck. Your attire, including the tiger skin and your charming appearance captivate even the snakes and sages. Goddess Parvati (also known as Maina Mata) is adorned on your left side. In your hand, the trident destroys all your enemies.

Part 2

Nandi Ganesh Sohai Tehan Kaise. Sagar Madhya Kamal Hai Jaise.
Kartik Shyam Aur Ganraau. Ya Chhavi Ko Kahi Jat Na Kau.
Devon Jabhin Jaay Pukara. Tab Hi Dukh Prabhu Aap Nivara.
Kiya Updrav Tarak Bhaari. Devon Sab Mil Tumhin Juhaari.
Turat Shadanan Aap Pathayau. Lavanimesh Maham Maari Giraayau.
Aap Jalandhar Asur Sanhaara. Suyash Tumhar Vidit Sansara.
Tripurasur San Yudh Machayi. Sabhin Kripa Kar Leen Bachayi.

Meaning

Nandi and Ganesh are near you, like the lotus in the middle of the ocean. Kartikeya and Ganesh are with you and no one can fully describe your form. When the gods were in trouble, they called upon you and you immediately alleviated their distress. When Tarakasura caused havoc, all the gods came together and sought your help. You sent Kartikeya, who killed Tarakasura and saved the gods. You also destroyed Jalandhara, whose name is known throughout the world. During the battle with Tripurasura, you protected everyone and saved them.

Part 3

Pragat Udhadhi Manthan Mein Jwala. Jare Surasur Bhaye Vihala.
Keen Daya Tehan Kari Sahaai. Neelkanth Tab Naam Kahai.
Poojan Ramchandra Jab Keenha. Jeet Ke Lanka Vibhishan Dheenha.
Sahas Kamal Mein Ho Rahe Dhaari. Keen Pariksha Tabhin Purari.

Meaning

When the ocean was churned and poison emerged, both gods and demons were in danger. You, out of compassion, drank the poison and that is why you became known as Neelkanth. Lord Ram worshiped you and by your grace, he conquered Lanka and made Vibhishana the ruler. Ram, while worshiping you with a thousand lotus flowers, was tested by you and you granted him the desired blessing.

Part 4

Maatu Pita Bhraata Sab Koi. Sankat Mein Poochhat Nahi Koi.
Swami Ek Hai Aas Tumhari. Aay Harahu Ab Sankat Bhaari.
Dhan Nirdhan Ko Det Sadahim. Jo Koi Jaanche Wo Phal Pahim.

Meaning

When in trouble, no one offers support, except for you, O Lord. You alone are my hope now. Please save me from this calamity. You give blessings to the rich and the poor alike. Those who seek you shall receive the fruits of their desires.

Part 5

Pandit Trayodashi Ko Lave. Dhyan Purvak Hom Karave.
Trayodashi Vrat Kare Hamesha. Tan Nahi Taake Rahe Kalesha.
Dhoop Deep Naivedya Chadhave. Shankar Samukh Path Sunave.
Janm Janm Ke Paap Nasave. Antvas Shivpur Mein Paave.

Meaning

Invite the Pandit to conduct the homa with focus on the 13th day. Those who observe the Trayodashi vow, with no bodily discomfort and offer incense, lamps and food, will be free from all sins of past lives and will attain Lord Shiva’s abode at the end.

Doha

Nitt Nem Kar Pratah Hi, Path Karun Chaleesa.
Tum Meri Manokamna, Poorn Karun Jagdish

Meaning

Those who recite Shiv Chalisa every morning with devotion, their wishes will certainly be fulfilled by Lord Shiva.

Shiv Chalisa - A Powerful Tool

Reciting the Shiv Chalisa with reverence, devotion and discipline removes all obstacles, sins, fears and mental unrest. It is not just a religious hymn but a powerful tool to gain spiritual peace, positive energy and divine blessings from Lord Shiva. Observing this ritual regularly, especially on Mondays, Pradosh Vrat or Shivaratri, opens the doors to Shiva's grace, bringing peace, prosperity and salvation to one's life.