Parikrama, the act of circumambulating a deity or sacred object, is a common practice in Hinduism. It is believed to be a way of paying homage and receiving blessings. However, the number of parikramas varies for different deities and objects. Here is a comprehensive guide to the rules of parikrama. :

Shiva: Half parikrama. Shiva is the destroyer of ignorance and the embodiment of cosmic consciousness. Half parikrama is performed as a mark of respect for his power and to avoid crossing the 'jaladhari', the stream of water flowing from the lingam.

Durga: One parikrama. Durga is the embodiment of divine feminine power and the destroyer of evil. One parikrama is performed to seek her blessings and protection.

Hanuman: Three parikramas. Hanuman is the epitome of devotion and strength. Three parikramas are performed to seek his blessings for courage, wisdom, and devotion.

Ganesha: Three parikramas. Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity. Three parikramas are performed to seek his blessings for success in all endeavors.

Peepal tree: 108 parikramas. The peepal tree is considered sacred and is believed to be the abode of various deities. 108 parikramas are performed to appease the deities and receive their blessings for long life, health, and prosperity.

Astrological Insights:

The number of parikramas is not arbitrary. It is based on astrological principles and the energies associated with each deity or object. For example, Shiva is associated with the number five, which represents the five elements and the five senses. Half parikrama is performed to symbolize the control of these senses. Durga is associated with the number one, which represents unity and singularity. One parikrama is performed to emphasize her supreme power. Hanuman is associated with the number three, which represents the three gunas (sattva, rajas, and tamas). Three parikramas are performed to seek his blessings for overcoming these gunas. Ganesha is also associated with the number three, which represents the three worlds (heaven, earth, and hell). Three parikramas are performed to seek his blessings for success in all three worlds. The peepal tree is associated with the number 108, which is considered highly auspicious in Hinduism. It is believed to represent the 108 names of God and the 108 Upanishads. 108 parikramas are performed to receive the blessings of all the deities residing in the tree.