Origin: Hinduism
Title: The Destroyer, The Auspicious One
Attributes:
- Appearance: Shiva is often depicted with a third eye on his forehead representing wisdom, blue throat (Neelakantha) from consuming poison during the churning of the ocean, matted hair, a crescent moon on his head, the river Ganga flowing from his hair, a trident (Trishula), and a serpent around his neck.
Mythology:
- Cosmic Role: Part of the Trimurti, Shiva is responsible for the destruction of the universe at the end of each cycle (Kalpa) to allow for recreation. His destruction is not negative but necessary for rebirth and transformation.
- Dance: Known as Nataraja, the Lord of Dance, Shiva's cosmic dance (Tandava) represents the cycles of creation and destruction; his dance is believed to control the cosmos.
Symbols:
- Trishula: Represents the three fundamental aspects of life: creation, preservation, and destruction.
- Damru: A small drum he plays, symbolizing the rhythm of creation and time.
- Ashes: Shiva smears his body with ash, symbolizing the transient nature of life.
- Rudraksha Beads: Worn by him, these beads are considered sacred and are used in meditation and prayer.
Worship:
- Shiva is widely worshipped across India and among Hindu communities worldwide. His temples, called Shiv Mandirs, are found everywhere, with significant ones like Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, Somnath, and the 12 Jyotirlingas.
- Festivals like Maha Shivaratri celebrate him, involving night-long vigils, fasting, and prayers.
Legends:
- Consuming Poison: During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Shiva drank the Halahala poison to protect the world, his throat turning blue in the process.
- Destruction of Daksha's Sacrifice: Shiva's intense anger led to the destruction of Daksha's yagna after the disrespect to his wife, Sati.
Cultural Impact: Shiva's imagery and philosophy have permeated various aspects of Indian culture, from classical dance and music to philosophical and yogic practices. His portrayal as both the ascetic meditating in the Himalayas and the householder with Parvati and their children, Ganesha and Kartikeya, offers a dual image of renunciation and engagement with the world.
Interesting Fact: Shiva's association with yoga, meditation, and asceticism makes him a popular deity among those seeking spiritual growth. His form as Adiyogi, the first yogi, underpins the tradition of yoga in India.