Who is Lord Shiva?

Lord Shiva is one of the principal deities of Hinduism, revered as the ‘Destroyer’ within the Trimurti, the Hindu Trinity that includes Brahma and Vishnu. He is a complex character, embodying both ascetic and householder ideals, and is worshipped in various forms across India and other countries where Hinduism has spread.

Attributes and Symbols

Shiva is often depicted with several distinct characteristics and symbols:

• Third Eye: Represents his ability to look beyond the obvious and into the deepest truths.

• Crescent Moon: Worn in his hair, symbolising the cyclical nature of time.

• Trident (Trishula): Represents the three fundamental aspects of consciousness – waking, dreaming, and deep sleep.

• Snake (Naga): Coiled around his neck, symbolising his power over the most dangerous creatures.

• River Ganga: Flowing from his hair, representing the purifying and life-giving nature of water.

• Drum (Damaru): Signifies the sound of creation and the rhythm of life.

  
  

Role in Hindu Mythology

Shiva is known for his complex nature, embodying both destructive and regenerative qualities. He is often seen as an ascetic yogi meditating in the Himalayas and at the same time, a benevolent householder with his consort Parvati and their sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya.

Key Stories and Legends

• The Tandava Dance: Shiva's cosmic dance, representing the dynamic forces of creation and destruction in the universe.

• The Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan): In this legend, Shiva consumes the poison produced during the churning of the ocean to save the world, which turns his throat blue, earning him the name Neelkanth (the blue-throated one).

• The Marriage to Parvati: This story highlights Shiva's transition from an ascetic to a householder and symbolises the balance between asceticism and worldly life.

  
  

Worship and Festivals

Shiva is worshipped in various forms, the most common being the Shiva Linga, which represents his formless nature. Major festivals associated with Lord Shiva include:

• Maha Shivaratri: Celebrated as the great night of Shiva, observed with fasting, prayer, and meditation.

• Shravan Month: The entire month is considered sacred for Shiva devotees, with Mondays especially dedicated to his worship.

  
  

Shivatri: The Great Night of Lord Shiva

Shivatri, commonly known as Maha Shivaratri, is one of the most significant festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated by millions of devotees across India and the world. It is a solemn occasion marked by fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.

Significance of Shivatri

Maha Shivaratri is observed on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalguna or Maagha, according to the Hindu calendar. In the UK it is celebrated on 26th Feb in 2025. This festival holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed to be the night when Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction, known as the Tandava. Additionally, it is considered the night when Shiva and Parvati were united in marriage, symbolising the union of consciousness and energy.

Rituals and Observances

Fasting

Devotees observe a day-long fast, abstaining from food and water, as a form of devotion and purification. The fast is broken the next morning after offering prayers to Shiva.

Worship

Worshippers visit Shiva temples to perform special rituals and offer prayers. The Shiva Linga, an iconic representation of Lord Shiva, is bathed with water, milk, and honey, and adorned with flowers and bilva leaves. Devotees chant mantras such as ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ to invoke the blessings of Shiva.

Night Vigil

Staying awake through the night is considered an essential part of the observance. Devotees engage in meditation, singing hymns, and reciting scriptures related to Lord Shiva. This vigil symbolises an awakening to the divine presence and an opportunity for self-reflection.

Spiritual Importance

Maha Shivaratri is not just a festival but a time for deep spiritual introspection and renewal. It encourages devotees to seek inner peace, let go of past burdens, and embrace the transformative power of Lord Shiva. The festival serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the potential for rebirth and rejuvenation through devotion and self-discipline.

Shiva and Shakti

In Hindu philosophy, the relationship between Shiva and Shakti is profound and central to understanding the dynamics of the universe. They represent the complementary forces that sustain life and the cosmos.

Concept of Shiva and Shakti

Shiva: The Consciousness

Shiva is often referred to as the embodiment of pure consciousness. He represents the static and unchanging reality that underpins the universe. In this role, Shiva is the silent, meditative force that remains detached from the physical world, embodying the potential for creation and transformation.

Shakti: The Divine Energy

Shakti, on the other hand, is the dynamic energy that activates Shiva's potential. She is the life force, the source of all movement and change in the universe. Shakti is often personified as the goddess Parvati and is considered the feminine aspect of the divine, representing fertility, creativity, and power.

The Union of Shiva and Shakti

The union of Shiva and Shakti symbolises the balance and harmony between consciousness and energy. They are seen as two aspects of the same reality, where neither can exist without the other. This union is often depicted in art and mythology as Ardhanarishvara, an androgynous form that combines both Shiva and Shakti in a single entity.

Spiritual Significance

The relationship between Shiva and Shakti is not just a mythological concept but has deep spiritual implications. It signifies the potential within each individual to achieve self-realisation and enlightenment. By harmonising these forces within oneself, individuals can experience a state of balance and unity, leading to spiritual growth.

Symbolism in Practices

In various spiritual practices, the interplay of Shiva and Shakti is explored through meditation, yoga, and rituals. These practices aim to awaken the dormant energies (Shakti) within the body and merge them with the higher consciousness (Shiva) to achieve a state of bliss and liberation.

Conclusion

The link between Shiva and Shakti is a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things. Their union teaches that life is a fusion of spirit and matter, consciousness and energy. Understanding and embracing this relationship can lead to a deeper appreciation of the universe's mysteries and our place within it.