Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, is often regarded as the Supreme Being, the destroyer in the Hindu trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva). He is known for his multifaceted and complex nature, representing both the destructive and regenerative aspects of the universe.
Here are some key aspects and symbolism associated with Lord Shiva:
The Creator, Preserver, and Destroyer:
Lord Shiva is often referred to as the "Destroyer of Worlds" because he represents the force of destruction in the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. He is responsible for dissolving the universe to make way for its rebirth.
Nataraja, the Cosmic Dancer:
Shiva is often depicted as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. This iconic image symbolizes the rhythmic cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. His dance, known as the Tandava, represents the eternal cosmic rhythm.
Third Eye:
Shiva is typically depicted with a third eye on his forehead, which symbolizes his ability to see beyond ordinary perception. It represents wisdom, intuition, and the inner vision that transcends the physical world.
Meditation and Renunciation:
Shiva is often depicted in deep meditation, sitting in a state of profound stillness on Mount Kailash. This aspect highlights his role as a yogi and ascetic, emphasizing the importance of meditation and detachment in spiritual practice.
Ashes and Rudraksha Beads:
Shiva is associated with ash smeared on his body, signifying his renunciation of material desires and worldly attachments. He also wears Rudraksha beads, which are considered sacred and are often used by devotees in their spiritual practices.
Lord of Animals:
Shiva is sometimes portrayed with a serpent coiled around his neck and a tiger skin around his waist. These symbolize his mastery over the animal instincts within us and his control over the primal forces of nature.
Trishul (Trident):
The trident, or trishul, is one of Shiva's primary symbols. It represents the three fundamental aspects of life: creation, preservation, and destruction. It also signifies his authority over time (past, present, and future).
Blue Throat:
Shiva's throat is said to have turned blue after consuming the poison (halahala) that emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). This act saved the world from destruction and earned him the name "Neelkantha" (the one with the blue throat).
Parvati and Family:
Shiva is married to Parvati, who is the goddess of love and devotion. Together, they have two sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya. His family life represents the balance between the ascetic and householder aspects of life.
Lingam:
The Shiva Lingam is a sacred symbol representing the unmanifest aspect of Shiva. It signifies the formless, transcendental nature of the divine and is often worshiped in temples.
Lord Shiva's avatars are mentioned in some scriptures and texts. Here are a few avatars or manifestations of Lord Shiva:
Pashupati
Pashupati is one of the earliest forms of Shiva mentioned in the Rigveda. This form is associated with Shiva as the lord of animals and represents his role as the protector of animals and the guardian of the natural world. Pashupati's connection with animals symbolizes Shiva's mastery over the animal instincts within us.
Ardhanarishwara
Ardhanarishwara is not a separate avatar but a divine form where Shiva is depicted as half-man and half-woman, with one half representing Shiva and the other half representing his consort, Parvati. This form emphasizes the unity of male and female energies in the cosmos, highlighting the harmonious balance between masculine and feminine aspects of divinity.
Kirata (Kiratarjuniya)
In this avatar, Shiva appears as a hunter or warrior. The Kirata avatar is associated with the story of Shiva's encounter with Arjuna from the Mahabharata. In this form, Shiva tests Arjuna's valor, and eventually, Arjuna realizes his divine identity.
​
Bhairava
Bhairava is a fierce and wrathful form of Shiva, often depicted with a terrifying appearance. He is associated with the destructive aspect of Shiva and is considered a guardian deity in some traditions. Bhairava is also linked with the practice of Tantra and is worshiped for spiritual transformation and protection.
Veerabhadra
Veerabhadra is a manifestation of Shiva created in response to his consort Parvati's intense anger. He is depicted as a warrior with a thousand arms, multiple heads, and weapons. Veerabhadra was created to punish Daksha, who had insulted Shiva.
Dakshinamurthy
Dakshinamurthy is a gentle and wise form of Shiva often depicted as a youthful sage imparting spiritual wisdom and knowledge to his disciples through silent meditation. This avatar symbolizes Shiva as the ultimate guru or teacher of spiritual truth and self-realization.
Lord Hanuman is an embodiment of devotion, strength, and selflessness. His story and qualities continue to inspire yoga practitioners as they navigate their spiritual journeys, seek inner transformation, and deepen their connection to the dedicated disciple and a symbol of strength, devotion, and selfless service.
Yoga Poses Associated with Lord Shiva
Tadasana
(Mountain Pose)
Story:
Tadasana, or the Mountain Pose, is associated with Lord Shiva's role as the lord of the Himalayas. The Himalayan mountains are considered the abode of Lord Shiva, where he is often depicted in deep meditation. This asana symbolizes the strength and stability of the mountains and invites practitioners to stand tall and rooted, just as Lord Shiva stands resolute in meditation.
Why is it significant:
Tadasana represents strength and stability. It encourages practitioners to find inner balance and remain grounded in their practice.
How to do the pose:
-
Stand with your feet together, arms by your sides.
-
Press your feet into the ground and lengthen your spine.
-
Lift your arms overhead with your palms facing each other.
-
Hold for several breaths, maintaining a sense of grounding.
Natarajasana
(Lord of the Dance Pose)
Story:
Natarajasana, also known as the Lord of the Dance Pose, is a tribute to Lord Shiva's role as the cosmic dancer, Nataraja. Lord Shiva is often depicted performing the divine dance of creation and destruction, representing the eternal cycle of life. In this pose, practitioners emulate Lord Shiva's dance, symbolizing the harmony and balance within the universe.
Why is it significant:
Natarajasana embodies the cosmic dance of creation and destruction. It encourages practitioners to find balance, grace, and harmony in their practice.
How to do the pose:
-
Stand with your feet together and shift your weight to one foot.
-
Bend your opposite knee and bring your heel toward your buttock.
-
Reach back with one hand to hold your foot.
-
Extend your opposite arm forward.
-
Find your balance and arch your back.
-
Hold for several breaths and repeat on the other side.
Baddha Padmasana
(Locked Lotus Pose)
Story:
Baddha Padmasana, or the Locked Lotus Pose, is associated with Lord Shiva's meditative and ascetic qualities. Lord Shiva is often depicted in deep meditation, seated in a yogic pose. The lotus, a symbol of purity and enlightenment, represents his inner tranquility. Baddha Padmasana symbolizes inner stillness and the journey toward self-realization.
Why is it significant:
Baddha Padmasana represents inner stillness and the pursuit of self-realization. It encourages practitioners to cultivate inner peace and tranquility.
How to do the pose:
-
Sit in Padmasana (Lotus Pose), with your legs crossed and feet resting on the opposite thighs.
-
Clasp your hands behind your back, opening your chest.
-
Gently bend forward, keeping your spine straight.
-
Hold for several breaths, maintaining the lotus posture.
Shiva Twist
(Ardha Matsyendrasana variation)
Story:
The Shiva Twist is a variation of Ardha Matsyendrasana, a seated spinal twist. Lord Shiva is often depicted as an ascetic meditating in the Himalayan caves. This asana symbolizes the twisting movement of Lord Shiva's energy as he remains in deep meditation. It encourages practitioners to balance their energy and focus on inner transformation.
​
Why is it significant:
The Shiva Twist represents inner transformation and the balanced flow of energy. It encourages practitioners to turn inward and seek self-realization.
How to do the pose:
-
Sit with your legs extended in front of you.
-
Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the outside of your left thigh.
-
Twist your upper body to the right and place your left elbow outside your right knee.
-
Hold for several breaths and repeat on the other side.
Shiva Squat
(Malasana)
Story:
The Shiva Squat, or Malasana, is associated with Lord Shiva's presence in cremation grounds, where he is believed to meditate. This asana reflects the grounded and humble nature of Lord Shiva, who is often depicted covered in ash from the cremation grounds. The Shiva Squat invites practitioners to embody humility, simplicity, and connection with the earth.
Why is it significant:
Malasana represents humility, simplicity, and connection with the earth. It encourages practitioners to find inner peace and embrace their grounded nature.
How to do the pose:
-
Stand with your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart.
-
Bend your knees and lower your body into a deep squat.
-
Bring your palms together in a prayer position at your heart.
-
Hold for several breaths, grounding yourself in the pose.
Shiva's Trident
(Trishula Pose)
Story:
The Shiva's Trident Pose, or Trishula Pose, is inspired by Lord Shiva's trident, a powerful symbol of destruction and transformation. Lord Shiva's trident represents his ability to destroy the ego and impurities, allowing for rebirth and transformation. This asana encourages practitioners to embrace change and transformation in their lives.
Why is it significant:
Trishula Pose represents transformation and the ability to destroy ego and impurities. It encourages practitioners to let go of the old and embrace change.
How to do the pose:
-
Stand with your feet together.
-
Extend one leg behind you and reach your opposite arm overhead, creating a trident-like shape.
-
Hold for several breaths and repeat on the other side.
Shiva's Serpent
(Bhujangasana)
Story:
Shiva's Serpent Pose, or Bhujangasana, is inspired by Lord Shiva's deep connection with serpents. He is often depicted wearing a serpent around his neck as a symbol of power and control over the serpent deities. Bhujangasana symbolizes the awakening of inner power and the ability to rise above challenges.
Why is it significant:
Bhujangasana represents the awakening of inner power and the ability to rise above challenges. It encourages practitioners to embrace their own inner strength.
How to do the pose:
-
Lie on your stomach with your palms under your shoulders.
-
Press through your palms and lift your chest off the ground.
-
Keep your elbows slightly bent and gaze forward.
-
Hold for several breaths, engaging your back muscles.
Shiva's Linga
(Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana Aka. Standing split)
Story:
Shiva's Linga Pose, or Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana, is inspired by the Linga, a sacred symbol representing Lord Shiva's divine energy and the unification of masculine and feminine principles. This asana encourages practitioners to find balance between their inner masculine and feminine energies, fostering harmony and unity.
Why is it significant:
As the practitioner moves into the pose, they may visualize themselves aligning with Shiva's energy, invoking qualities such as detachment, stillness, and grace. The raised leg becomes a symbolic representation of Shiva's cosmic dance and the dynamic interplay of creation and dissolution.
How to do the pose:
-
Stand with your feet together.
-
Lift one leg in front of you, parallel to the ground.
-
Extend your arms forward.
-
Hold for several breaths, maintaining balance.
-
Repeat on the other leg.