Shiva

Shiva is one of the principal deities of Hinduism. He is the Supreme Being within Shaivism, one of the major traditions within contemporary Hinduism.

Etymology and other names

Shiva means "The Auspicious One," also known as Mahadeva (Great God), he is identified as a cosmic dancer, with the dance of destruction and recreation being a key aspect of his character. Shiva is also known as Adiyogi Shiva, regarded as the patron god of yoga, meditation and arts.

Attributes

Shiva is depicted as an omniscient Yogi who lives an ascetic life on Mount Kailash, as well as a householder with wife Parvati and his two children, Ganesha and Kartikeya. Shiva is also depicted with a crescent moon adorning his head, the holy river Ganga flowing from his matted hair, the third eye on his forehead, the serpent around his neck, the adorning crescent moon, the holy river Ganga flowing from his matted hair, the Trishula as his weapon, and the Damaru as his musical instrument.

Shiva in Shaivism

In Shaivism tradition, Shiva is the Supreme being who creates, protects and transforms the universe. In the goddess tradition of Hinduism called Shaktism, the goddess is described as supreme, yet Shiva is revered along with Vishnu and Brahma. A goddess is stated to be the energy and creative power (Shakti) of each, with Parvati (Sati) the equal complementary partner of Shiva.

Festivals

There are many festivals associated with Shiva, the most notable being the Maha Shivaratri which is celebrated annually. Other festivals include the Kumbh Mela and the Kartik Purnima.

Temples

There are numerous Shiva temples in India and across the world. Some of the most famous include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Somnath temple, and the Amarnath temple.

See also

• Rudra
• Lingam
• Nataraja
• Om Namah Shivaya