Shiva is without a beginning and without an end and is without a form.

Shivalingam connects a devotee with the Supreme Shiva. The lingam is the symbol of Lord Shiva and the lingam puja helps the devotee in understanding Shiva. Shiva is without a beginning and without an end and is without a form. It is difficult for a devotee to understand this formless nature. Therefore Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Jyotirlinga before Sri Brahma and Sri Vishnu. Lingam thus is a symbol of Shiva and Each Lingam puja, step by step, takes the devotee to the eternal truth, that he/she is part of the Supreme Shiva. The first and foremost thing that one needs to be keep in mind before performing Rudrabhishek is that Never put tulsi (basil) leaves on the Shivalingam. Always offer only Bael leaves. When offering milk to the ShivaLingam make sure you always use ice cold milk. Never offer coconut water as an offering to the Shivalingam, although you can offer coconuts. Although any fruits can be offered but the most common is Bel, wood apple as it signifies longevity. The Shivalingam should be first offered Panchamrit, which is a mixture of milk, ganga jal, yogurt, sugar/honey and ghee. Offer white flowers because Shiva is fond of white flowers. Never offer kewda and champa flowers as they are said to be cursed by Lord Shiva. Never use a kumkum tilak for the Shivalingam, although use it for Shiva Idols. Use sandalwood paste for Lingam. Never consume whatever you have offered to the Shivalingam as it brings bad omen.
Love and light ~ Shivoham Shivoham!!