Meaning of MAHASHIVRATHRI

Maha Shivaratri literally means 'the night (ratri) of the Supreme God principle (Shiva)'.Lord Shiva takes rest some time during the night. That time of the night, i.e. the time when Lord Shiva is resting is called Mahashivratri. When Lord Shiva is resting, Lord Shiva goes from the meditative state (Dhyan) to the state of meditative union (Samadhi). This state of meditative union of Lord Shiva is His time to do spiritual practice.When Lord Shiva is resting the work of the Shiva principle stops,.During this time since the Shiva principle is inactive, the overall tama component and restlessness in the universe i.e. the pressure of the distressing energies increases. The effect of these energies is reduced by offering bel leaves, white flowers, rosary of rudraksh etc that attract the Shiva principle from the atmosphere. Basically on this day by offering such items we increase our sattvikta to combat increased negativity around.  Hindus observe a strict fast on this day; some devotees do not partake of even a drop of water. In observance of Maha Shivratri people repeat thePanchakshara mantra namely - ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ through out the night.