Here Lord Shiva in the lingam form is believed to be Swayambhu (born of itself) , the only of the 12 Jyotirlingams to be so which is derived from the currents of power (Shakti). It is one place where Shakti peeta and Jyotirlingam are together. It is supposed to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva.
The idol of Mahakaleshwar is known as dakshinamurti as it is which facing the south. This is a unique feature to be found only in Mahakaleshwar among the 12 Jyotirlingas.
