Somaskanda Murthi, Lord Shiva
Somaskandhamurti is one the forms of Lord Shiva, depicted in one of the Puranas relating to the Lord Vishnu. Here the word ‘Soma’ is referred to Lord Shiva and ‘Skandha’ is refrerred to another child God.
It has been described in various occasions in the epics that Lord Vishnu had worshipped Lord Shiva, such as in Ramayana, where in Lord Vishnu is incarnated as Rama, prayed Shiva to attain Strengths to win over the demon Ravana.
It is believed that Lord Vishnu wanted a son who would be an example and symbol of Charm. He has worshipped Lord Shiva for ages and at last he got Lord Shiva’s grant. Lord Shiva appeared before Lord Vishnu to provide the boon he needed. But at the same time, Lord Vishnu overlooked Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva.
Reacting to Lord Vish Vishnu’s signs of disrespect, she had cursed Lord Vishnu that his son would get burnt away by her Lord. Upset by her words, Lord Vishnu then started worshipping the Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and their Child Lord Skanda. Delighted by his worship towards them, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati blessed Lord Vishnu’s son to get back to life by the grace of God.
In this episode of the epic, it is said that the form of Lord Shiva, which has been worshipped by Lord Vishnu is Somaskandamurthi or SahaUmaSkandamurthi, as Lord Vishnu has worshipped all together for his son’s renaissance.
It has got its significance when Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are referred together and their relation is discussed among the common devotees of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.