Shiva Linga(Hill of Tara) Temple, Ireland

Address

Shiva Linga(Hill of Tara) Temple, Castleboy, Co. Meath, Ireland

Diety

Shiva

Introduction

• Location: Near the River Boyne, between Navan and Dunshaughlin in County Meath, Ireland.
• Significance: An archaeological complex believed to be the seat of the High King of Ireland. The Stone of Destiny, or Lia Fáil, located here, is estimated to be at least 5,500 years old and bears a resemblance to a Shiva Lingam. The site was historically revered, and a temple dedicated to the goddess Tara is believed to have existed.

Puranic Significance:

• Ancient Irish Beliefs:
  • Tara’s Reverence: In ancient Irish religion and mythology, Tara was considered a sacred dwelling place of the gods and a gateway to an eternal paradise.
  • St. Patrick’s Mission: According to legend, St. Patrick visited Tara to challenge the ancient pagan beliefs that were prevalent in the area.
  • Stone of Destiny: The Lia Fáil, also known as the Stone of Destiny, is a prominent feature at Tara. It has been damaged in several places, and ancient texts link it to the High Kings of Ireland.
• Vedic Connections:
  • Goddess Danu: In Vedic tradition, Danu is the daughter of Daksha and wife of Kasyapa Muni, associated with rivers. The name “Danu” means ‘flowing water’ in Sanskrit.
  • Goddess Tara: In Sanskrit, “Tara” means ‘star’ and is also a name for the wife of Lord Shiva. The similarities between the Lia Fáil and Shiva Lingam suggest a cross-cultural connection.
  • Tuatha Dé Danann: According to legend, the Tuatha Dé Danann, a mythical race in Irish lore, were defeated and were allowed to remain only underground as the ‘Aes sidhe’ or people of the fairy mounds.

Special Features:

• Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny):
  • Appearance: Resembles a Shiva Lingam and is central to the site’s significance.
  • Condition: Recently subject to vandalism, with damage reported in 2012.
• Historical and Mythological Significance:
  • The site reflects a blend of ancient Irish and Vedic traditions, with symbolic connections to deities worshipped in both cultures.

Century/Period/Age

5,500-year-old

Nearest Bus Station

Castleboy

Nearest Railway Station

Tara Station

Nearest Airport

Dublin

lightuptemple