Sri Ramana Maharshi selected ten verses from Sivanandalahari, the famous composition of Adi Sankaracharya in Sanskrit consisting of one hundred verses in praise of Lord Siva, and arranged them in a specific order.

These verses are very potent in invoking the grace of Lord Siva. They also contain spiritual ideas that are revealing, inspiring, and insightful. One of the verses asks “Kim Durlabham,” meaning what is impossible for one who worships Lord Shiva. The verses also caution readers against fruitless worship of superficial gods.

As the auspicious Maha Sivaratri approaches, we give below each verse selected by Sri Ramana Maharshi, its concise meaning (from Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi), the original verse in Sanskrit, the English transliteration, and the complete meaning of the verses. You can read it here »