MitraVita - Hinduism Simplified
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Shiva
The Adi Shesha, The Supreme Form
The Destroyer, The Transformer, The Transformer of the Universe
Who is Shiva?
Shiva is the Supreme Lord, the destroyer of the universe, the transformer of the universe, and the creator of the universe.
He is the second of the three primary aspects of the Supreme Brahman, along with Brahma and Vishnu.
Shiva is often depicted as a yogi, sitting in meditation, with his third eye (Ajna) open, and his fourth eye (Sahasrara) closed.
He is the lord of the universe, and is considered to be the most powerful of all the gods.
Shiva's Avatars
Shiva has four primary avatars (incarnations): Brahma, Vishnu, and the two Lingas (Shiva and Shakti).
He is also known to have taken many other avatars, such as Nataraja (the dancer), Bhairava (the fierce one), and Kala (the destroyer).
Shiva's Symbols
The Trishul (triple-pointed spear): a symbol of Shiva's power and strength.
The Linga (phallic symbol): a symbol of Shiva's fertility and creative power.
The Ganesha (remover of obstacles): a symbol of Shiva's wisdom and benevolence.
Shiva's Festivals
Maha Shivaratri: a festival celebrated on the 14th day of the dark half of the month of Phalguna, in honor of Shiva's marriage to Shakti.
Shivaratri: a festival celebrated on the 13th day of the dark half of the month of Phalguna, in honor of Shiva's meditation and yoga.
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