Shiva
The Destroyer, Mahadeva, Shankara, Nataraja
Supreme deity, part of the Trimurti (Trinity)
Place of Origin: India
Origin Date: Vedic period (1500–500 BCE)
Domain: Destruction, transformation, meditation, asceticism, dance
Symbols: Trident (Trishula), drum (Damaru), crescent moon, serpent, third eye
Attributes: Destruction, transformation, meditation, asceticism, dance
Epithets: Mahadeva, Shankara, Nataraja, Neelkanth, Rudra
Equivalents: Shiva's role as the destroyer and transformer can be loosely compared to deities like Hades (Greek mythology) or Odin (Norse mythology) in their roles related to death and transformation.
Religion: Hinduism
Sacred Texts: Shiva is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, including the Vedas, Puranas, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. The Shiva Purana and Linga Purana are key texts dedicated to his worship and mythology.
Iconography: Shiva is typically depicted with a third eye on his forehead, a crescent moon in his hair, a serpent around his neck, and holding a trident and a drum. He is often shown in a meditative pose or performing the cosmic dance as Nataraja.
Relations: Parvati (consort), Ganesha (son), Kartikeya (son), Vishnu (the Preserver), Brahma (the Creator)
Description
Shiva is one of the principal deities in Hinduism, known as the Destroyer and Transformer. He is often depicted with a third eye on his forehead, a crescent moon in his hair, and a serpent around his neck. Shiva's significance lies in his role in the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. He is also associated with meditation, asceticism, and the arts, particularly dance, as he is often depicted as Nataraja, the Lord of Dance.
Narratives
The Birth of Shiva
According to some legends, Shiva is considered an eternal being without a specific birth. However, in some stories, he is said to have emerged from a cosmic pillar of fire, symbolizing his eternal and infinite nature.
The Marriage of Shiva and Parvati
After the death of Sati, Shiva's first wife, he retreated into deep meditation. Parvati, the reincarnation of Sati, performed intense penance to win Shiva's love. Impressed by her devotion, Shiva married Parvati, symbolizing the union of divine masculine and feminine energies.
The Birth of Ganesha
Parvati created Ganesha from the turmeric paste she used for bathing. She breathed life into the figure and made him her guardian. When Shiva returned and did not recognize Ganesha, he beheaded him in a fit of rage. To appease Parvati, Shiva replaced Ganesha's head with that of an elephant, giving him a new life.
The Birth of Kartikeya
Shiva and Parvati's second son, Kartikeya (also known as Skanda or Murugan), was born to defeat the demon Tarakasura. Kartikeya was raised by the Krittikas (Pleiades) and became a powerful warrior, eventually slaying the demon.
The Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan)
During the churning of the ocean by the gods and demons to obtain the nectar of immortality, a deadly poison called Halahala emerged. Shiva drank the poison to save the world, and Parvati held his throat to prevent the poison from spreading, turning his throat blue and earning him the name Neelkanth.
The Destruction of Tripura
The demon Tripurasura created three invincible cities called Tripura. The gods sought Shiva's help to destroy these cities. Shiva used a single arrow to destroy Tripura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
The Story of Bhasmasura
Bhasmasura, a demon, received a boon from Shiva that allowed him to turn anyone he touched into ashes. Bhasmasura tried to use the boon on Shiva himself. Vishnu, in the form of Mohini, tricked Bhasmasura into touching his own head, turning him into ashes.
The Story of Ravana and the Atmalinga
Ravana, the demon king, sought to obtain the Atmalinga, a powerful symbol of Shiva. Shiva granted him the Atmalinga with the condition that it should not be placed on the ground. Ganesha, disguised as a young boy, tricked Ravana into placing the Atmalinga on the ground, making it impossible for him to lift it again.
The Story of Markandeya
Markandeya, a young sage, was destined to die at the age of 16. He prayed to Shiva for protection. When Yama, the god of death, came to take Markandeya's life, Shiva intervened and saved him, granting him eternal life.
The Story of Ardhanarishvara
Shiva and Parvati merged to form Ardhanarishvara, a composite deity representing the union of masculine and feminine energies. This form symbolizes the inseparability and equality of both aspects in the universe.
The Story of Ganga's Descent
King Bhagirath prayed to Shiva to bring the river Ganga down to Earth to purify the souls of his ancestors. Shiva agreed and caught Ganga in his matted locks to prevent her from destroying the Earth with her powerful descent. Ganga then flowed gently to the Earth.
The Story of Daksha's Yajna
Daksha, Sati's father, organized a grand yajna (sacrifice) but did not invite Shiva. Sati attended the yajna uninvited and was insulted by Daksha. In her grief, she immolated herself. Enraged, Shiva destroyed the yajna and beheaded Daksha. Later, Shiva revived Daksha with a goat's head.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Shiva
Shiva is one of the principal deities in Hinduism, known as the Destroyer and Transformer. He is often depicted with a third eye on his forehead, a crescent moon in his hair, and a serpent around his neck. Shiva's significance lies in his role in the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction.
Core Beliefs
Destroyer and Transformer: Shiva is believed to be the Destroyer and Transformer, embodying the qualities of destruction and renewal. His presence ensures the continuous cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction in the universe.
Member of the Trimurti: Shiva is part of the Hindu Trimurti, along with Brahma (the Creator) and Vishnu (the Preserver). Together, they represent the three fundamental aspects of the universe: creation, preservation, and destruction.
Symbol of Asceticism and Meditation: Shiva represents asceticism and meditation, emphasizing the importance of self-discipline and spiritual practice. His story highlights his role as a yogi and a master of meditation.
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Shiva is often depicted as a powerful and serene figure, sometimes shown with symbols of destruction and transformation, such as a trident (trishula), a drum (damaru), and a snake. He is also depicted with the river Ganges flowing from his hair, symbolizing purification and life.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Shiva include the trident, the drum, the snake, and the crescent moon. These symbols are used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke his presence and blessings.
Cultural Hero: The stories and depictions of Shiva are passed down through generations, maintaining their significance in Hindu culture and mythology. He is a symbol of destruction, transformation, and spiritual practice.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Shiva. These include offerings of food, flowers, and other goods to seek his favor and protection. Rituals often take place in temples dedicated to Shiva, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Shiva can be found throughout India and other regions with Hindu populations. Some of the most famous temples include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and the Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand. These sites are often adorned with statues and images of Shiva, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Offerings: Offerings to Shiva typically include food, flowers, and items related to his symbols, such as bilva leaves and rudraksha beads. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for protection and blessings.
Festivals and Traditions
Maha Shivaratri: Maha Shivaratri is a major festival dedicated to Shiva, celebrating his cosmic dance and his marriage to Parvati. The festival includes prayers, rituals, and offerings to seek Shiva's blessings for the coming year.
Kartik Purnima: Kartik Purnima is another important festival dedicated to Shiva, celebrated with prayers, rituals, and offerings. Devotees seek Shiva's blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
Cultural Celebrations: Shiva's story may be included in cultural celebrations and festivals that honor Hindu heritage and traditions. These gatherings often include music, dance, and storytelling.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Shiva for protection, transformation, and the successful practice of their spiritual beliefs. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as the Destroyer and Transformer.
Shiva's role as the Destroyer and Transformer embodies the core values and beliefs of Hinduism, emphasizing the importance of destruction, renewal, and spiritual practice.