We recently brought a Shivling from my in-law’s place as they are not able to take proper care of it. My in-laws used to worship it with elaborate rituals. We have also been advised to follow it. To be honest, I don’t have much faith in their long rituals which were advised by our family priest. To me a simple ritual with faith & devotion is what is actually needed in worship🤨.

It would be of great help to me, if you can advise a simple ritual to be followed with the mantra of Shiva & Parvati based on your in-depth understanding of scriptures. 

Knowing that you are a strictly spiritual person, I was little hesitant in asking for your guidance in this purely religious matter. But as I could not find any genuine person,I am taking a little liberty here. Please help me out.

I understand your situation and have experienced this with other families as well. Ritual involves a material and a spiritual aspect. The material side is to give bath (wash) the Shivalingam daily and keep it in a clean place followed by pranam and a prayer in the heart. A small lamp can be lit in the evening and an incense in the morning. If possible you could offer the datura flower and bilwapatra. Nothing more is needed especially as Shiva is the Lord of tapasya he is not much fond of rituals. He prefers that the seeker rather meditates in silence to discover one’s true Self. So you could meditate upon the Divine Mother in your heart after this simple ritual. He will be much happier than all the elaborate poojas done in his name. 

Affectionately,

Alok Da