Somnath Temple History – Mythology, Reconstruction & Significance Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, Somnath Temple is one of the holiest and oldest Shiva temples in India. Somnath is considered to have special significance as the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva . This temple is not only a center of religious faith, but is also a symbol of India's rich history, culture and steadfast faith. Mythology behind the name Somnath According to Hindu mythology, Chandradev i.e. Soma married 27 daughters of Prajapati Daksha. But Chandradev loved Rohini more than all his wives. Angered by this, Prajapati Daksha cursed Chandradev to decay. To get rid of the curse, Chandradev performed severe penance to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva was pleased with his devotion and freed him from the curse. It is believed that the Somnath Jyotirlinga was established where Chandradev worshipped Lord Shiva. The word ‘Somnath’ also means ‘Somana Nath’ i.e. L...