tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62853676690059276822024-03-04T20:10:03.601-08:00Inconcievable Realtionship Of Lord Krishna And Lord Shiva ( Hari Hara )This Blog is dedicated to understand the relationship of Krishna and Shiva , without taking side of Vaisnava ,Shaiva,Smartha's or Shakta's .
If you do not like it , Its Ok .
Not attempted to hurt anyone .Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-12003365605495726992012-11-22T23:22:00.002-08:002012-11-22T23:22:43.497-08:00Lord Shiva Final Advice To All Devotees<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuK9yIRgz6MNcVTtWBYiu6K4-dtawaXiBIwoRRpuEJEF8eW-R49LjEOGRCTet7eBJ3KmyfzQKANSSUTxZw3QklKIPY9ukxhHwvYSb0YSCXl8LdmQTa-PucR3to_mFnhsdQgTzWhpIUCXiF/s1600/Shiva+Narayan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuK9yIRgz6MNcVTtWBYiu6K4-dtawaXiBIwoRRpuEJEF8eW-R49LjEOGRCTet7eBJ3KmyfzQKANSSUTxZw3QklKIPY9ukxhHwvYSb0YSCXl8LdmQTa-PucR3to_mFnhsdQgTzWhpIUCXiF/s1600/Shiva+Narayan.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Vishnu ( Hari Hara )</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
the <i>Sri </i><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Sanatkumara-samhita_1"></a><i>Sanatkumara-samhita</i>,
from the ancient <i>Skanda Purana</i>, we find a conversation between the great
sage Sri Narada and Lord Sadashiva, the master of the demigods. Starting at text
number 26 to text 30, Narada Muni asks Lord Sadashiva, “O master please tell
what method the people of Kali-yuga may adopt to easily attain the
transcendental abode of Lord Hari [Krishna]. O Lord, what mantra will carry the
people from this world of birth and death? So everyone may benefit, please tell
it to me. O Lord, of all mantras what mantra needs no <i>purashcharana</i>, no <i>nyasa</i>,
no yoga, no <i>samskara</i>, and no other thing? A single utterance of the
Lord’s holy name gives the highest result. O master of the demigods, if I am
competent to hear it, please kindly tell me the Lord’s holy name.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
texts 31-35 , Lord Sadashiva gives his answer: Lord Sadashiva said: “O
fortunate one, your question is excellent. O you who wish for the welfare of
all, I will tell you the secret <i>chintamani</i> [wish-fulfilling] jewel of all
mantras. I will tell you the secret of secrets, the most confidential of all
confidential things. I will tell you what I have not told either the goddess or
your elder brothers. I will tell you two peerless Krishna mantras that are the
crest-jewels of all mantras. One is:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> “‘Gopijana-vallabha-charanau
sharanam prapadye.’ (I take shelter of the feet of He who is the <i>gopi’s</i>
beloved.) This mantra has three compound words, five individual words and
sixteen syllables.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> “The
second mantra is: ‘Namo gopijana-vallabhabhyam.’ (Obeisances to the divine
couple, who are dear to the gopis) This mantra has two words and ten syllables.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
texts 36-41, Lord Sadashiva continues: “One who either with faith or without
faith once chants this five-word mantra resides among Lord Krishna’s gopi-beloveds.
Of this there is no doubt. In chanting these mantras there is no need of <i>purshcharana</i>,
<i>nyasa</i>, <i>ari-shuddhi</i>, <i>mitra-shuddhi</i>, or other kinds of
purification. In chanting these mantras there is no restriction of time or
place. All, from the lowest outcaste to the greatest sage, are eligible to chant
this mantra. Women, shudras, and all others are eligible. The paralyzed, mute,
blind, and lame are eligible. The Andhras, Hunas, Kiratas, Pulindas, Pukkashas,
Abhiras, Yavanas, Kankas, Khashas, and all others even if born from sinful wombs
are also eligible. They who are overcome with pride and ego, who are intent on
committing sins, who are killers of cows and brahmanas, and who are the greatest
of sinners, are also eligible. They who have neither knowledge nor renunciation,
they who have never studied the <i>shruti-shastra</i> and other scriptures, and
all others, whoever they may be, are also eligible to chant these mantras.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Then
in texts 42-48 Lord Sadashiva explains who is not eligible and who should not be
told these sacred mantras or the purpose of them: “Anyone who has devotion to
Lord Krishna, the master of all masters, is eligible to chant these mantras, but
they who have no devotion, even they may be the greatest of sages, are not
eligible. They who have performed many <i>yajnas</i> (rituals), given charity,
visited all holy places, been devoted to speaking the truth, accepted the
renounced order, traveled to the farther shore of the <i>Vedas</i> and <i>Vedangas</i>,
devotedly served the brahmanas, taken birth in good families, and performed
austerities and vows, but are not devoted to Lord Krishna, are not eligible to
chant these mantras. Therefore these mantras should not be spoken to one who is
not devoted to Lord Hari, nor to one who is ungrateful, proud, or faithless, nor
to an atheist or a blasphemer. One should not speak these mantras to one who
does not wish to hear them, nor to one who has not stayed for one year in the
speaker’s ashrama. One should carefully give these mantras to one who is free
from hypocrisy, greed, lust, anger, and other vices, and who is sincerely
devoted to Lord Krishna. The sage of this mantra is Lord Sadashiva. The meter is
Gayatri. The Deity is Lord Krishna, the beloved of the <i>gopis</i>. The purpose
is to attain service to dear Lord Hari.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
text 53 Lord Sadashiva says: “By once chanting this mantra one attains
success. Of this there is no doubt. Still, for the purpose of chanting <i>japa</i>
one should chant this mantra ten times daily.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
texts 54-77 of the <i>Sri Sanatkumara-samhita</i>, Lord Sadashiva describes the
most nectarean meditation of the mantras, after which he continues with many
additional topics in regard to the pastimes of Radha and Krishna and the
importance of the land of Vrindavana:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> “O
best of brahmanas, now I will tell you the meditation of this mantra. I meditate
on two-armed Lord Krishna, who is dark like a monsoon cloud, dressed in yellow
garments, garlanded with forest flowers... crowned with a peacock feather, and
garlanded with lotus whorls, whose face is splendid like ten million moons,
whose eyes move restlessly... whose forehead is marked with the <i>tilaka</i> of
sandal paste and musk... who is splendid with earrings like two rising suns,
whose perspiration-anointed cheeks are like two glistening mirrors... who with
raised eyebrows playfully glances at His beloved’s face, the tip of whose
graceful raised nose is decorated with a glistening pearl... whose bimba-fruit
lips are splendid in the moonlight of His teeth, whose hands are splendid with
bracelets, armlets, and jewel rings... who holds a flute in His left lotus hand,
whose waist is splendid with a graceful belt, whose feet are splendid with
graceful anklets... whose eyes are restless with the nectar of amorous pastimes,
who jokes with His beloved, making Her laugh again and again... and who stays
with Her on a jewel throne under a <i>kalpa-vriksha</i> [wish-fulfilling] tree
in Vrindavana forest. In this way one should meditate on Lord Krishna and His
beloved.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> “On
the Lord’s left side one should meditate on Sri Radha, who is dressed in blue
garments, who is splendid like molten gold... who with the edge of Her garment
covers Her graceful lotus smile, whose restless chakori-bird eyes dance on Her
beloved’s face... who with Her forefinger and thumb places betel nuts and
crushed betel leaves in Her beloved’s lotus mouth... whose full, raised
breasts are decorated with a glistening pearl-necklace, whose waist is slender,
whose broad hips are decorated with tinkling ornaments... who is decorated with
jewel earrings, finger rings, toe rings, bracelets, armlets, and tinkling golden
anklets... whose limbs are graceful with the best of beauty, who is always in
the prime of youth, and who is always plunged in the nectar of bliss. O king of
brahmanas, Her friends, whose age and qualities are like Hers, devotedly serve
Her with <i>chamaras</i>, fans, and other articles.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> “Please
hear, O Narada, and I will tell you the meaning of these mantras. The material
world is manifested by the Lord’s <i>maya</i> potency and other external
potencies. The spiritual world is manifested by the Lord’s <i>chit</i> potency
and other internal and everlasting spiritual potencies. The protector of these
potencies is said to be the <i>gopi</i> Sri Radha, who is Lord Krishna’s
beloved. The transcendental goddess Sri Radha is the direct counterpart of Lord
Sri Krishna. She is the central figure for all the goddesses of fortune. She is
the pleasure potency of Lord Krishna. The wise say that She is the pleasure
potency of Lord Krishna. Durga and the other goddesses in the world of the three
modes are a million-millionth part of one of Her expansions. She is directly
Goddess Maha-Lakshmi and Lord Krishna is Lord Narayana. O best of sages, there
is not the slightest difference between Them. O best of sages, what more can I
say? Nothing can exist without them. This universe made of spirit and matter
together is Their potency. She is Durga and Lord Hari is Shiva. Lord Krishna is
Indra and She is Shachi. She is Savitri and Lord Hari is Brahma. She is Dhumorna
and Lord Hari is Yama. O Narada, please know that everything is Their potency.
Even if I had many hundreds of years, I could not describe all Their glories.”</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-11540205599198865172012-11-22T23:15:00.005-08:002012-11-22T23:15:41.218-08:00 How Lord Shiva Brings Destruction<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="color: blue; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> How Lord Shiva Brings Destruction</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">As previously mentioned, is that within the glance of Maha-Vishnu over <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Maya,_1"></a><i>maya</i>
is the element of time, which starts the agitation within the energy of <i>maya</i>,
or the <i>pradhana</i>. This is what starts the process of creating and
separating the various material elements. This element of time has been
identified as Shambhu, the personality of the destructive principle. It is also
this Shambu in the form of Rudra who later appears at the end of time to bring
about the destruction of the universe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> So,
Shiva is <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_considered_an_expansion_of_Vishnu_1"></a>considered
to be an expansion of the Supreme Lord Vishnu, Krishna, and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,__is_called_Hara_as_an_expansion_of_Krishna_1"></a>is
called Hara as such, and is transcendental to the material qualities. However,
in his activities of destroying the world at the end of time, he is in touch
with the mode of ignorance, or <i>tamo-guna</i>, and then he is considered as
one of the living entities, called Rudra.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> It
is further explained that Lord Krishna expands a portion of His plenary portion,
Lord Vishnu, who assumes the form of Rudra when it is time to dissolve the
cosmic manifestation. Lord Vishnu does this for accepting the association of the
material mode of ignorance. Thus, Rudra is but another expansion of the <i>energy</i>
of Lord Krishna, although not a personal expansion. Rudra, Lord Shiva, has
various forms, which are transformations brought about by the different degrees
of association with <i>maya</i>. Although Rudra is on a higher level than the <i>jiva-tattvas</i>,
the individual living beings, he still cannot be considered a personal expansion
of Krishna. Thus he is considered like a <i>jiva</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Although
many people worship Lord Shiva, Shiva <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,__worships_Lord_Krishna_1"></a>worships
Lord Krishna. The <i>Shiva Purana</i> states that Shiva is the Supreme, however,
this is in regard to his power over the material world. After all, it is he who
assists in the annihilation of the material creation, so he has power over the
universe. But no scripture ever says that Shiva is the Supreme Lord of any of
the Vaikuntha planets or of Goloka Vrinadavana, or any part<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_is_not_lord_of_the_spiritual_domain_1"></a>
of the spiritual domain. Such precincts belong only to Lord Krishna and His
personal expansions. That is why Lord Shiva is always pictured absorbed in
meditation. He is meditating on Lord Sankarshana, who is represented by the
snakes on Shiva’s body. Since Shiva is the origin of the mundane egoistic
principle, one who is a worshiper of Lord Shiva as a devotee of Sankarshana can
be freed from the false, material ego.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Shiva
is often pictured doing <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_his_Tandava_dance_of_destruction_1"></a>his
Tandava dance of destruction. He is seen with four hands and one leg up, as an
expert dancer, and one leg dancing on a small person called the Apasmara-purusha.
In two of his hands he holds the damaru drum and fire. The drum represents sound
which is supported by ether. This is a sign of further creation after the
annihilation or destruction. Fire represents the Pralayagni, or the fire of
universal destruction. Thus, Shiva holds the symbols of cyclical universal
creation and annihilation. The other two hands represent protection and blessing
for those who take refuge of him or of his spiritual knowledge. The Apasamara
upon whom Shiva stands symbolizes the ignorance which make us lose our clarity
and consciousness of our real identity. This also signifies our succumbing to
the process of death without spiritual preparation. Shiva is shown dancing on
this ignorance for the good of the devotees who take refuge.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> How
Shiva assists in the cosmic annihilation is described in the <i>Puranas</i>.
This process of cyclical destruction at the end of each day of Brahma is
explained in the <i>Vishnu Purana</i> (Book Six, Chapters Three & Four). It
states that at the end of 1,000 cycles of the four <i>yugas</i> the earth is
almost exhausted. A great scarcity of food ensues, which lasts 100 years.
Because of the lack of food, all beings become weak and slow, and finally perish
entirely. Lord Vishnu then assumes the character of Rudra (a form of Lord
Shiva), the destroyer, and descends to reunite all of His creatures within
Himself. He enters into the seven rays of the sun, causing all moisture in the
oceans, rivers, soil, and living bodies to evaporate. The whole earth is dried
up. Thus fed with abundant moisture, the seven rays dilate into seven suns,
whose radiance glows everywhere and sets the three planetary systems and the
lower system of Patala on fire. The three planetary systems become rugged and
deformed throughout their mountains, rivers, and seas as they are consumed by
these suns. The earth alone remains, destitute of moisture, resembling the back
of a turtle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Then
Lord Hari, in the form of Rudra, who is the fire of time, destroyer of all
things, becomes the scorching breath of Ananta Sesha, Sankarshana, and reduces
the lower planetary system of Patala to ashes. The great roaring fire makes its
way up through the universe to earth and destroys it. A vast whirlpool of flame
then spreads to the higher region of the demigods and puts them all to ruin. The
three planetary systems appear like a frying pan surrounded by flames that
consume all things. The inhabitants of the upper planetary systems then move
higher to Maharloka, and when that becomes too hot, those who desire final
liberation depart for the higher regions of Janaloka.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Elsewhere
in the <i>Bhagavatam</i> (5.25.3), it states that Lord Shiva plays a significant
role in the final and ultimate annihilation of the universe, which takes place
at the end of Brahma’s life. “At the time of devastation, when Lord
Anantadeva [Ananta Sesha, Sankarshana] desires to destroy the entire creation,
He becomes slightly angry. Then from between His two eyebrows appears three-eyed
Rudra, carrying a trident. This Rudra, who is known as Sankarshana, is the
embodiment of the eleven Rudras, or incarnations of Lord Shiva. He appears in
order to devastate the entire creation.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<i>Brahma Purana</i> (124.16) explains that it is the imperishable Lord Krishna
who assumes the form of Rudra to bring all the elements and living beings back
into Himself in the process of annihilation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> After
Shiva appears in this way, he begins to do his dance of dissolution, dancing
wildly to the beat of his drum. “At the time of dissolution, Lord Shiva’s
hair is scattered, and he pierces the rulers of the different directions with
his trident. He laughs and dances proudly, scattering their hands like flags, as
thunder scattered the clouds all over the world.” Lord Shiva’s
dancing causes such a commotion that it brings in the clouds that cause the
universe to become inundated with water, which is what happens next as the
process of annihilation continues<sup> .</sup></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-89825511514119194152012-11-22T23:12:00.001-08:002012-11-22T23:23:26.001-08:00 How Lord Shiva Manifest In This World<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> <span style="color: blue;">How Lord Shiva Manifest In This World</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> The
previous paragraphs point out how Lord Shiva participated in the creation
process as Shambhu, and it is also related how Lord Shiva <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_how_he_appeared_in_this_world_1"></a>appeared
in this world in a personal form from Lord Brahma. It is explained in the <i>Bhagavatam</i>
(3.12.4), that in the beginning of the creation process, Lord Brahma manifested
four great sages named Sanaka, Sananda, Sanatana and Sanat-kumara. Brahma
expected them to assist in filling the universe with varieties of living beings.
However, they were unwilling to adopt materialistic activities because they were
highly elevated beings. Brahma requested that they begin to produce progeny, but
they refused because they were already attached to Lord Vasudeva, the Supreme
Lord, and were focused on achieving liberation. So they expressed their
unwillingness, which made Lord Brahma extremely angry.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
anger generated in the mind of Lord Brahma, though he tried to control it, came
out from between his eyebrows. Immediately there was produced a child of mixed
red and blue color. This child immediately began to cry and requested to Lord
Brahma, “O destiny maker, teacher of the universe, kindly designate my name
and place.” Lord Brahma then pacified the boy and said, “O chief of the
demigods, you shall be called Rudra because you have cried so anxiously.” Then
Brahma gave Rudra the following places for his residence: the heart, the senses,
the life-air of the body, the sky, the air, the fire, water, earth, sun, the
moon and austerity. He then told Rudra that he would be known by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Rudra_eleven_other_names_1"></a>eleven
other names: Manyu, Manu, Mahan, Shiva, Ritadhvaja, Ugrareta, Bhava, Kala,
Vamadeva and Dhritavrata. These names represent the other aspects of Lord Shiva,
each having different appearances and activities. Rudra is often shown as tall,
well built, with long hair, wielding the thunderbolt, bow and arrow. He is
viewed as the protector of humanity against its enemies. He is also known as an
excellent physician and has numerous medicines which can cure diseases. Brahma
also told Rudra that he would have eleven wives, namely Dhi, Dhriti, Rasala, Uma,
Niyut, Sarpi, Ila, Ambika, Iravati, Svadha and Diksha.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Brahma
then told Rudra to accept these names and wives, and that since he was one of
the masters of the living beings, he should now increase the population on a
large scale. Rudra then created many offspring that resembled him in color,
strength, and furious nature. They were unlimited in number, and when they
gathered together, they attempted to devour the universe. Brahma, becoming
alarmed at the situation, then requested Rudra not to generate living beings of
this nature. It would be better if Rudra engaged himself in penance, or
meditation, which is auspicious for all. Through penance he could create the
universe as it was before. By penance only can one approach the Supreme Lord,
who is within the heart of every living being and at the same time beyond the
reach of the senses. Thus Rudra accepted the advice of his father, Brahma, and
went to the forest to perform austere penances. This is why we so often see
Shiva pictured in the mountain forests engaged in meditation.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Some
of Shiva’s <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_other_names_1"></a>other names include
Dakshinamurti, meaning a universal teacher. Then there is Trilochana
(Three-eyed), Nila-kantha (Blue-throated), Pancha-anana (Five-faced),
Chandrashekhara (Moon-crested), Gangadhara (Bearer of the Ganga), Girisha
(Mountain Lord), Jatadhara (Wearer of matted hair), Sthanu (Immutable),
Visvanatha (Lord of the Universe), Bhairava (the Terrible, destructive aspect of
Shiva), Bhutesha or Bhuteshvara (Lord of ghosts or elements), Hara (remover of
death), Shambhu (abode of joy), Shankara (giver of joy), Bhava (existence),
Mahadeva (great God), Ashani (thunderbolt), Isha or Ishana (the ruler),
Pashupati (the herdsman or friend of animals), Mritunjaya (conqueror of death),
Aghora (non-fearful), Ugra (the fearful), Bhima (the tremendous), Rudra (Lord of
tears), Shuli, Maheshvara, Ishvara, Sharva, Khandaparashu, Mrida, Krittivasas,
Pinaki, Pramathadhipa, Kapardi, Shrikantha, Shitikantha, Kapalabhrit, Vamadeva,
Mahadeva, Virupaksha, Krishanuretas, Sarvajna, Dhurjati, Nilalohita, Smarahara,
Bharga, Tryambaka, Tripurantaka, Antakaripu, Kratudhvamsi, Vrishadhvaja,
Vyomakesha, Umapati, Ahirbudhnya, Ashtamurti, Gajari, Mahanata, and others. The
1000 names of Shiva can be found in Chapter 17 of the Anushasana Parva of the <i>Mahabharata</i>,
as well as the <i>Linga Purana</i> (1.65-98).</span></div>
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<span><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span><br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-45588527632014258212012-11-22T23:10:00.001-08:002012-11-22T23:24:35.827-08:00 How Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga Are Father and Mother Of Universe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="color: blue; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> How Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"> Are Father and Mother Of Universe</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Since
it is the glance of the Supreme Being over the energy of Durga, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Maya,_1"></a><i>maya</i>,
which sets in motion the creation of the universes, Durga is therefore <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Durga,__known_as_the_universal_mother_1"></a>known
as <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Durga_the_universal_mother_1"></a>the universal mother.
This is why when people speak of the material nature, it is always referred to
as a female, as “she,” <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Mother_Nature,_1"></a>Mother Nature,
and as the goddess. And the essence of Mother Nature is represented <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Mother_Nature,_as_Durga_1"></a>as
Durga. She is united with her husband, known as Lord Shiva, who is then
considered the father of the universe.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> It
is explained in the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Vayu_Purana_1"></a><i>Vayu Purana</i> that
Shiva is <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,_an_expansion_of_Sadashiva_1"></a>an expansion of
Sadashiva, who is a direct expansion of Lord <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Krishna,_1"></a>Krishna.
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Sadashiva_1"></a>Sadashiva appears in order to perform various
pastimes. Sadashiva is a resident of one of the Vaikuntha planets of the
spiritual world. His consort there is Ramadevi, a form of Lakshmi. She expands
into <i>mahamaya</i> in the material worlds, where she is then known as Durga.
Thus, the spiritual Sadashiva and Ramadevi again become related as Shiva and
Durga, who are the origin of material nature.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
part that is played by Lord Shiva during the creation is more fully explained in
the <i>Brahma-samhita</i> (5.6-8). Therein it states that Lord Krishna, the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Krishna,_Lord_of_Gokula_1"></a>Lord
of Gokula, the topmost planet in the spiritual sky, is the Supreme Godhead, the
very Self of eternal ecstasies. He is busily engaged in the enjoyments of the
transcendental realm and has no association with the mundane, illusory material
energy. He does not stop His spiritual engagements. When He intends to create
the material manifestation, He merely <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Maha-Vishnu,_sends_His_glance_over_the_material_energy_1"></a>sends
His glance over the deluding energy in the form of His time potency. Krishna’s
expansion in the form of Maha-Vishnu in the Causal Ocean carries this glance to
the material energy. This glance from Maha-Vishnu is the efficient cause of the
creation. The dim halo of this glance, the reflected effulgence, is Shiva <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,_in_his_form_as_Shambhu_1"></a>in
his form <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,_as_Shambhu_1"></a>as <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shambhu_1"></a>Shambhu,
who is the symbol of masculine mundane procreation. It is through this form of
Shiva that the Supreme Lord associates with the material energy. In his role as
Shambhu, he is the principle by which Maha-Vishnu impregnates the material
nature with the seeds of the innumerable living entities. Otherwise, the Supreme
Being has no association with the material energy.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<i>Brahma-samhita</i> (5.10) goes on to explain that it is Shambhu, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Maheshvara_1"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,_Maheshvara_1"></a>Maheshvara,
who is the dim reflection of the Lord’s glance, and lord of the <i>pradhana</i>
who embodies the seed of all living beings. The <i>pradhana </i>is the
unmanifest material ingredients that later form the cosmic manifestation. It is
Shambhu who comes forth from the glance of the Lord. Shambhu <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shambhu,_is_created_from_in_between_the_two_eyebrows_of_Maha-Vishnu_1"></a>is
created from the space in between the two eyebrows of Maha-Vishnu. Furthermore,
Shambhu then joins with <i>maya</i> in the form of the male organ or power of
regeneration. But he can do nothing independent of the power of Maha-Vishnu, who
represents the direct spiritual power of Krishna. Therefore, the necessary
changes in the material energy cannot happen unless facilitated by the will of
the Supreme Lord, Krishna. (<i>Bs</i>.5.15)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> As
further described (<i>Brahma-samhita</i> 5.16), the function of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shambhu,_1"></a>Shambhu
in relation to the conditioned souls is that the mundane egoistic principle has
originated from Shambhu. What this means, without trying to get complicated
about it, is that the tendency for the individual living being to forget his
spiritual identity comes from Shambhu. This forgetfulness makes the individual
in this material world want to be an enjoyer of the material experience. This is
because he thinks he is the material body. This false identity makes all
conditioned souls want to continue with their existence in the temporary,
mundane world. This is the function of Shambhu, Shiva, in relation with the
Supreme Lord Krishna’s creative process. This forgetfulness is then carried
further by <i>mahamaya</i>, Durga, as previously explained.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> However,
to make it more clearly understood, Shiva<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,__is_an_expansion_of_the_Supreme_Lord,_Krishna_1"></a>
is an expansion of the Supreme Lord, Krishna, as described above. He is not a
second god that acts in place of Krishna. Those who think he is make an offense
against the Supreme Being. Neither is he a <i>jiva</i>, a marginal spirit soul.
As clearly explained in the <i>Brahma-samhita</i> (5.45), just as milk is
transformed into curd by the action of acids, it is nonetheless neither the same
as nor completely different from its cause, namely milk. So I adore the primeval
Lord Govinda of whom the state of Shambhu is a transformation for the work of
destruction.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> In
other words, Lord Krishna manifests His energy through Maha-Vishnu into the form
of Shambhu, Shiva, in order to perform various tasks without having to give up
His completely spiritual activities. It is through Shiva that the Supreme Being
associates with His material energy in the form of <i>maya</i>. He does not do
so directly. Thus, Shiva is not really different from Krishna, yet remains
subservient to Him. The difference is like that of yogurt and milk. Yogurt is
simply a changed form of milk, different in function simply by adding a certain
acid. Similarly, the Supreme Being expands and changes into the distinct
personality of Shambhu by the addition of a certain adulterated element to
perform a particular function. It is also this form of Shambhu from whom Rudra,
another form of Shiva, is created from Lord Brahma later on in the creative
process. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> So
here we have learned another aspect of how the spiritual energy expands to
create the material energy. Thus, ultimately everything comes from Lord Krishna.
It is He who expands into the forms of Maha-Vishnu and then Shiva and Durga, who
are considered the indirect mother and father of the universe, and are
themselves expansions of<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Sadashiva,_1"></a> Sadashiva and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Ramadevi,_the_spiritual_identity_of_Durga_1"></a>Ramadevi
from the Vaikuntha realm.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-2993799176305408412012-11-22T23:07:00.002-08:002012-11-22T23:26:01.492-08:00Shiva Lingam<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE
SHIVA-LINGAM</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> One
thing you may be questioning is why Lord <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva-lingam_1"></a>Shiva
is so often represented as a <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Lingam_1"></a><i>lingam</i>. <i>Linga</i>
basically means a sign or symbol. So the <i>lingam</i> is essentially a symbol
of the shapeless universal consciousness of Lord Shiva. “Shiva” also means
that in which the creation lies dormant after the annihilation. So, one
explanation is that the <i>lingam</i> is a representative of the dormant
universal consciousness in which all created things rest after the cosmic
annihilation. It also represents the <i>pradhana</i>, the potential but
unmanifest ingredients of the material world. Another explanation is that Shiva
means auspicious. So the <i>linga</i> is the shapeless symbol for the great god
of auspiciousness. It is intended to bring the shapeless unknown into our
attention.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<i>yoni</i> upon which the <i>lingam</i> often sits represents the manifest
universal energy. From the unmanifest comes the manifest energy, through which
all other things are created. The <i>yoni</i>, which is a symbol of Shakti,
combined with the <i>lingam</i>, is a symbol of the eternal union of the
paternal and maternal principles, or the positive and negative, or the static
and dynamic energies of the Absolute Reality. It is the communion of the eternal
consciousness and dynamic power of the Shakti, the source of all actions and
changes. It is also the symbol for the creation of the universe through the
combination of the active energy of Lord Shiva and his Shakti. This is how Lord
Shiva and Durga are considered the parents of the universe. The symbolism of the
<i>lingam </i>and <i>yoni </i>also represents the base of the spine, meaning the
Muladhara <i>chakra</i>, upon which the <i>kundalini </i>is resting, waiting for
awakening.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> There
are a few versions according to the <i>Puranas</i> of why Shiva is worshiped as
a <i>lingam</i> and how this happened, of which I will relate one. There was a
great sacrificial ceremony that was going to take place many hundreds of years
ago. The great sage Narada Muni was invited to it and asked who would receive
the effects of the sacrifice. No one could answer, so the sages who were present
asked him who should receive it. Narada said that Sri Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva
were all eligible, but they would have to find out which one had the most
patience and purity to be the receiver of the sacrifice. So he chose the great
sage Brighu to learn the answer.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Brighu
had many mystic powers and was able to travel to the domain of the demigods. So
first he went to see Lord Brahma, but Brahma was preoccupied and did not notice
Brighu’s presence. Feeling insulted, Brighu cursed Brahma, “You are so proud
of your power of creation, you did not notice my arrival. For this you shall
have no temples on earth.” Thus, there are very few temples of Brahma on
earth. Next, Brighu went to see Shiva in Kailash, but Shiva also did not notice
Brighu’s arrival. Brighu, again feeling offended, cursed Shiva to be worshiped
only as a <i>lingam</i> on earth. This is the reason why Lord Shiva is primarily
represented and worshiped as a <i>lingam</i> on this planet.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Then,
to continue the story, Brighu went to see Lord Vishnu, who also did not
recognize Brighu’s presence. Brighu was so angered that he went forward and
kicked Vishnu’s chest. Lord Vishnu apologized if He had hurt Brighu’s foot
and began praising Brighu. Brighu immediately felt pleased and could understand
that Vishnu was actually the most qualified to receive the offerings from the
sacrifice. However, Lakshmidevi, the goddess of fortune and Lord Vishnu’s
wife, was very displeased by Brighu’s action and, therefore, does not bestow
much mercy on the brahmanas who, as a result, are often without much money.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> To
explain the shape of the <i>lingam</i>, a Baana <i>linga</i> is egg-shaped and
is meant to show that Ishvara has neither beginning nor end. The Lingobhavamurti
is said to be the prime manifestation of the form of the formless, which Shiva
is said to have manifested exactly at midnight on Shivaratri. This is why
everyone stays up until midnight and then worships that form during the
Shivaratri festival. A representation of the Lingobhavamurti can often be found
in a niche on the outside wall of the sanctum in any important Shiva temple. </span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<i>lingas</i> in the temples are often formed in three parts. The lowest part is
the base square called the Brahmabhaga or Brahma-pitha, which represents the
creator Brahma. The next part in the middle is the octagonal Vishnubhaga or
Vishnu-pitha, which signifies Lord Vishnu the sustainer. Both of these parts
form the pedestal. The top cylindrical portion is the Rudrabhaga or Shiva-pitha,
which is also called the Pujabhaga since this is the worshipable part. The top
portion is also meant to symbolize the projecting flame of fire. This flame also
represents the destructive aspects as well as the preserving power of God.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> There
are twelve important Jyotirlinga temples scattered across India. They are found
in Kedarnatha, Kashi Visvanatha, Somnatha, Baijnath, Ramesvare, Ghrisnesvar,
Bhimasankar, Mahakala, Mallikarjuna, Amalesvar, Nagesvar, and Tryambakesvar. The
five Pancha Bhuta Lingas in India are located at Kalahastisvar, Jambukesvar,
Arunachalesvar, Ekambesvara at Kanchipuram, and Nataraja at Chidambaram. The
temple of Lord Mahalinga at Tiruvidaimarudur (Madhyarjuna) is also a great
temple in South India.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
reason Lord Shiva is often worshiped by pouring Ganges water over the <i>lingam</i>
is that it represents the Ganges descending from heaven on to Shiva’s head.
The legend is that when the Ganges first began to flow to the earthly planet
from the heavenly region, the force of it would have destroyed the earth. To
prevent this, Lord Shiva agreed to let the river first fall on his head before
forming into a river. It is also explained that when worshipers pour milk or
Ganga water on the <i>linga</i>, it represents the pouring of ghee on the sacred
fire in the fire ceremony, or <i>yajna</i>. It is the symbolic offering of
ourselves to God.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> One
story in connection with the Shiva <i>linga </i>is found in the <i>Linga Purana</i>.
It describes that once Lord Brahma, the god of creation, and Lord Vishnu, the
God of protection, engaged in an argument on who was greater. When those two
great gods were fighting between themselves, Lord Shiva appeared as a huge
pillar of fire that spread across the universe. He told Brahma and Vishnu that
whoever finds the head or foot of his form of flame would be considered greater.
Then Brahma took the form of a swan and set out to reach the top of the flame.
Vishnu took the form of a boar to seek out the foot of the fire. But in spite of
their efforts, they could not succeed in finding the limits. They realized their
mistake and the peerless greatness of Lord Shiva. This shows how Shiva cannot be
approached through ego, but responds with love to those who surrender to him. In
this pastime, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of the fiery <i>lingam </i>for
their benefit. So they were considered blessed with additional insight for
worshiping that oldest form of him. This form of Shiva who appeared from the
flame is called Lingodbhava. This story is found in the <i>Shiva Purana </i>and
other texts.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> This
further helps to show how the <i>lingam </i>is not formless nor really a form,
but a symbol for the divinity of Lord Shiva. In Sanskrit, <i>linga </i>means
“mark”. It is a symbol of Lord Shiva in the same way that large puddles of
water are an indication of heavy rains. It is an inference for something else,
like the form of that which is formless and omnipotent.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-75488936254647670412012-11-22T23:04:00.001-08:002012-11-22T23:04:28.817-08:00Shivaratri<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"></span><br />
<div style="color: blue; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE
SHIVARATRI FESTIVAL</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> One
festival that all worshipers of Shiva take part in is <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shivaratri_1"></a>Shivaratri.
The night of Shiva is a festival that is held in the typical pattern of
preparation, purification, realization, and then celebration. On the day of the
festival, people will fast and spend the day focused on Shiva, meditating and
chanting “Om Namaha Shivaya.” Thus, offering their obeisances to Lord Shiva,
the mind is held in such single-pointed concentration throughout the day. Then
at the stroke of midnight Shiva is said to manifest as the inner light of
purified consciousness. This climax at night represents our overcoming the dark
ignorance and reaching the state of purified spiritual knowledge. Therein we
conquer the influence of the mind and senses, exhibited by staying awake all
night, and enter the state of steady awareness wherein there is spiritual
awakening. If one can follow this process, then he or she can experience the
real meaning of Shivaratri.</span></div>
</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-14716684384435131482012-11-22T23:02:00.003-08:002012-11-22T23:03:13.723-08:00Lord Shiva & Shaivism<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Lord Shiva </span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"> &</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Shaivism</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Shaivism is one of the major traditions of the Vedic system, and centers around
the worship of Lord Shiva.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shaivites_those_who_accept_Shiva_as_the_supreme_deity_1"></a>
Those who accept Shiva as the supreme deity are called Shaivites. Its origin
predates recorded history, but references to the worship of Shiva can be found
in the <i>Vedas</i> and <i>Puranas</i>.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> You
will notice that a devotee of Shiva in India usually wears Vibhuti or <i>bhasma</i>,
the sacred ash, on his forehead, and Radrakshamala around his neck and
elsewhere. The Rudra bead represents the third eye on Lord Shiva’s forehead.
He should worship the Shiva <i>lingam </i>with the leaves of the Bilva trees,
and his meditation should consist of chanting the Panchakshara, “Om Namaha
Shivaya”.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
philosophy of Shaivism covers a wide range of Hindu thought, from idealistic
monism to pluralistic realism, depending on the locality. As it changed through
the years, a number of Shaivite sects were established, and the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Pasupatas_1"></a>Pasupatas
are considered the earliest. The Shaiva cults have had great popularity with
village people throughout India, and use a form of asceticism for their means of
spiritual advancement. This includes rising above anger and greed, engaging in
deep meditation, and concentrating on the repetition of the sacred syllable <i>om</i>.
Many Shaiva ascetics can be recognized by their long matted hair, which may also
be wrapped and piled up on the head. They often wear a horizontal, three-lined <i>tilok</i>
mark on their forehead. Many initiates smear their bodies with ashes which come
from the sacred fire or crematoriums. They chant mantras to become free from the
bondage of material existence, and sometimes dance and sing to induce
trance-like states. Some of their practices are rather unorthodox, depending on
the school of thought, and, thus, some have met opposition at various times.
Much information about the practices of Shaivism is given in the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_Purana_1"></a><i>Shiva
Purana.</i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
Pasupatas were the earliest sect of Shaivism. They based their ideas on two
works, both said to be by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Kaundinya_1"></a>Kaundinya: the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Pasupatasutra_1"></a><i>Pasupatasutra</i>
(written around 100-200 A.D.) and the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Pancarthabhasya_1"></a><i>Pancarthabhasya</i>
(400-600 A.D.). They expanded primarily into Gujarat. The Pasupatas accept the
idea of a Supreme controller, but do not use the <i>Vedas</i>. They establish
the existence of the Supreme through inference and say that the Supreme, who
they accept as Lord Shiva, is not the original cause of the material world, but
is the operative cause in that he simply used the material ingredients which
already existed to form the cosmic manifestation. Therefore, through a
combination of the potency of Lord Shiva and the material energy, generally
regarded as <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shakti_1"></a>Shakti or Mother <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Durga_1"></a>Durga,
the universe is created.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
conclusive Vedic literature, however, maintains that demigods such as Lord
Brahma and Lord Shiva are created by and subordinate to Lord Narayana, Vishnu,
who is the creator of the material worlds and all ingredients thereof. The <i>Varaha
Purana</i>, <i>Bhagavata</i> <i>Purana</i>, <i>Vishnu Purana</i> and many others
specifically state that Narayana <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Narayana_is_the_Supreme_Personality_1"></a>is
the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and from Him Brahma was born, from whom
Shiva was born. Therefore, the demigods are not the Supreme but only<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Demigods_dependent_agents_of_the_Supreme_1"></a>
dependent agents of the Supreme who work under His direction. This is confirmed
in many verses throughout the Vedic literature. Although in some places we may
find that demigods like Shiva, Ganesh, Surya, Indra, etc., are described as the
ruler and creator of all, we should understand that almost all prayers to the
demigods use such terms. But the words should be taken in their etymological
sense referring to Narayana, or Vishnu, who is the source of the power that the
demigods have. Shiva’s name as <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Pasupati_1"></a>Pasupati means
“Lord of all souls,” <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Ganesh_1"></a>Ganesh means “Lord of
all beings,” <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Surya_1"></a>Surya means “the goal of the
wise,” <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Indra_1"></a>Indra means “the supreme ruler,” all
of which ultimately refer to the Supreme Lord and that these demigods are His
agents and represent the power of the Supreme.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<i>Vedanta-sutras</i> <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Vedanta-sutras_point_out_contradictions_in_the_Pasupatas_and_Shaivites_1"></a>point
out many contradictions in the philosophy of the Pasupatas or Shaivites (<i>Vedanta-sutras</i>
or <i>Sri Bhasya</i> 2.2.35-41). It concludes that if one is serious about
attaining spiritual enlightenment and liberation, he must avoid this
questionable philosophy, for in spite of the uncommon austerities and lifestyle
of the Shaivites, their destination after death is not certain. The reason is
that, though they may worship Shiva as the Supreme Being, they generally believe
that God is an unembodied void into which they try to merge. Many of them accept
Shiva or any other deity as simply being a material manifestation of that void
or Brahman. Thus, their understanding of the Absolute Truth is faulty, and the
process they use for spiritual realization is misdirected.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> We
should point out, however, that the Vedic literature establishes Lord Shiva as
one of the topmost devotees of Lord Vishnu or Krishna. Shiva is often pictured
in meditation, and many verses from the <i>Puranas</i> explain that he is always
meditating on the Supreme, Sri Krishna. This means that Shiva is a Vaishnava of
the greatest caliber. Furthermore, he is also one of the most important demigods
in the universe. Therefore, as long as one understands Lord Shiva’s real
position and avoids the impersonalistic philosophy that most Shaivites follow,
there certainly is no harm in worshiping or offering respects to Lord Shiva or
visiting the temples dedicated to him. In this case, worshiping Lord Shiva is
simply offering respects to a superior devotee of God who can help one along the
way. In fact, as we have explained earlier, respect for Shiva is beneficial for
such advancement.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> There
are many other sects of the Shaivites besides the Pasupatas. The <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Pratyabhijna_1"></a>Pratyabhijna
Shaiva sect is from Kashmir. They were systematized by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Vasugupta_1"></a>Vasugupta
(800 AD) based on the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shivasutra_1"></a><i>Shivasutra</i> and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Spandakarika_1"></a><i>Spandakarika</i>.
The latter was expanded by the commentaries of Somananda, Utpaladeva,
Abhinavagupta, and Kshemaraja, who wrote the summary teachings in his <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Pratyabhijnabridaya_1"></a><i>Pratyabhijnabridaya</i>.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Virasaiva_1"></a>Virasaiva or <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Lingayatas_1"></a>Lingayatas
was another sect. There was little notice of this sect until <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Basava_1"></a>Basava,
a brahmana from Kannada developed it. They may have developed from the
Kalamukhas and worshiped the <i>linga</i>.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shaiva_Siddhantas_1"></a>Shaiva Siddhantas was another sect in
South India, having originated in the 11<sup>th</sup> and 13<sup>th</sup>
centuries. They used Sanskrit texts, but these were later overshadowed by the
Tamil texts of the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Nayanmar_1"></a>Nayanmar poets, which lent to
its <i>bhakti</i> or devotionally oriented system.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Additionally,
there was also the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Lakulisha_Pasupatas_1"></a>Lakulisha
Pasupatas who were also ascetics. The <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Kapalikas_1"></a>Kapalikas
dwelled in the cremation grounds. <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Kalamukhas_1"></a>Kalamukhas
were ascetics similar to the Pasupatas. The Kashmir or <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Trika_Shaivites_1"></a>Trika
Shaivites had a three-fold concept of God: namely Shiva, the <i>shakti</i>
energy, and the <i>anu</i> or individual. The <i>smarta</i> or orthodox of
Shaivism practiced the <i>varnashrama</i> system as enunciated in the <i>smriti</i>
literature and the <i>Manu-samhita</i> and <i>Kalpa</i> <i>Sutra</i>. The Natha
or <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Kanphata_yogis_1"></a>Kanphata yogis were a Shaiva sect said
to be founded by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Goraknatha_1"></a>Goraknatha. This blended the
Pasupata system with Tantric practices and hatha-yoga.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shaivism_1"></a>Shaivism
essentially consists of believing and accepting that Shiva is the Absolute, that
he is transcendental to time and space, and pervades all energy and existence.
Shaivites believe that once the influence of <i>maya</i> and karma are removed,
they will be free from the bondage that prevents them from perceiving that their
spiritual identity is equal to Shiva. They chant obeisances to Shiva on a
regular basis, such as “Om Namaha Shivaya,” or simply “Namashivaya”.
Shiva is known to bless his devotees with material opulence if he is pleased.
And he can be easily pleased, or quickly angered. Yet many people offer worship
of some kind to Shiva and Durga in hopes of acquiring blessings for material
facility.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
basic process of Shaivism, summarized as follows, particularly of the Saiva
Siddhanta school, consists of 1) maintaining virtue, 2) doing service and
worship, 3) yoga, meditation, 4) acquiring knowledge, and then enlightenment and
Self-realization.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> To
elaborate a little, the first step includes maintaining virtue and purity, which
means to cause no injury to any creature, do no stealing, and maintain honesty,
truthfulness, proper conduct, patience and dedication, compassion, and control
of the appetite. These are the basics of karma-yoga as well as the building
blocks of any spiritual process.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
second step includes maintaining discipline in <i>sadhana</i>, or one’s
spiritual practice and habits. This is when we control the mind and absorb our
consciousness in the higher purpose of life and activities. This is also called <i>kriya</i>,
regulated exercises or methods. There is also worship of the image of the divine
or the deity to invoke the dormant spiritual love within us. Going to the temple
or <i>ashrama</i> to participate in the <i>puja</i>, worship, and to joyfully
absorb oneself in hearing the Vedic wisdom and chanting or singing is also
included.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
third step includes the performance of yoga in which a person practices <i>pranayama</i>
and <i>pratyahara</i>, breath control to steady the mind and senses, and
withdraw them from external distractions. Then through concentration and
meditation the practitioner becomes aware of God within. Through this practice,
the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Kundalini_1"></a><i>kundalini</i> may also become active,
rising through the <i>chakras</i>. One’s doubts, faults, mental weaknesses and
ignorance, even past karma, becomes reduced. Then ecstasy and the divine energy
is aroused. Ultimately, this is meant to give way, with practice, to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Nirvikalpa_samadhi_1"></a><i>nirvikalpa</i>
<i>samadhi</i>, or the experience of the timeless and formless Parashiva.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
fourth step is when a person becomes enlightened and Self-realized. In this
state, divine wisdom is a part of one’s every move. Though still living in this
mortal world, the person knows and also perceives that he is not of it. He is of
a different, transcendental nature. This is a result of all his practice,
austerity, <i>sadhana</i>, and devotional love. No more does such a yogi
experience the limitations of the mind or ordinary intellect. He is free of it,
or liberated, a <i>jivanmukta</i>, a liberated soul.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> This
process, as described in the above paragraphs, includes the basic steps that you
will find in most forms of yoga, no matter whether it is applied directly to
Shaivism or not. However, in this day and age, being able to take this system to
its full perfection is not easy, and to attempt it thinking one can do so may be
misleading. Nonetheless, as anyone can see, the basic steps of this process
includes qualities and practices that can enhance anyone’s life and assist in
whatever spiritual path is being pursued.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-16786344738923857012012-11-22T22:58:00.003-08:002012-11-22T22:58:58.276-08:00Position Of Lord Shiva<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"> Position Of Lord Shiva - Vishwanath</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">In
the <i>Bhagavatam</i> (4.3.23), Lord Shiva himself tells his wife, Sati, he is
always engaged in <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_worships_Lord_Krishna_1"></a>worshiping
the Supreme Personality known as Lord Vasudeva, Krishna, who is revealed in pure
consciousness, by offering obeisances.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Herein,
we can see that in actuality Lord Shiva is subordinate to Lord Vishnu, Krishna,
in that he is also a part of Lord Krishna’s universal form, as described in
the <i>Bhagavad-gita</i> (11.15). Therein we find: “Arjuna said: My dear Lord
Krishna, I see assembled together in Your [universal] body all the demigods and
various other living entities. I see Brahma sitting on the lotus flower as well
as Lord Shiva and many sages and divine serpents.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
the pastimes of Lord Krishna in Vrindavana, we find that Lord Shiva had also
tried to enter the <i>rasa-lila</i> dance between Krishna and the <i>gopis</i>,
the cowherd damsels. The <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Mahadeva_Gopisvara_temple_1"></a>Mahadeva
Gopisvara temple in Vrindavana is said to mark where Lord Shiva desired to
become a <i>gopi</i> in order to enter the dance with Lord Krishna. So Lord
Shiva was trying to enter into the most confidential pastimes and devotion of
Sri Krishna.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
another light, Lord Shiva is Lord <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_Krishna?s_brother-in-law_1"></a>Krishna’s
brother-in-law. At the time of Krishna’s birth pastime in Vrindavana, Yasoda
bore a daughter, Katyayani or Durga, and Mother Devaki bore a son, Lord Krishna.
To save Him from the nefarious King <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Kamsa_1"></a>Kamsa,
Krishna’s father, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Vasudeva_1"></a>Vasudeva, brought Krishna
from Mathura to Gokul and exchanged Him with the daughter of Mother Yasoda,
taking the daughter back with him. When King Kamsa came to get the new born from
Mother Devaki, the child rose into the air and exhibited her form as the
eight-armed <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Durga_1"></a>Durga and chastised Kamsa. Durga is
Lord Shiva’s wife, and in this pastime Lord Krishna’s sister, so it can also
be said that <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Krishna,_Shiva's_brother-in-law_1"></a>Shiva is the
brother-in-law of Lord Krishna.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
another place in the <i>Bhagavatam</i> (8.12.10), when Lord Shiva was bewildered
by the Supreme Lord’s form as a beautiful woman, Mohini-Murti, Lord Shiva
admits his weakness in being unable to fully understand the illusory nature of
this material creation. “O My Lord, I, who am considered to be the best of the
demigods, and Lord Brahma and the great rishis, headed by Marichi, are born of
the mode of goodness. Nonetheless, we are bewildered by Your illusory energy and
cannot understand what this creation is. Aside from us, what is to be said of
others, like the demons and human beings, who are in the base modes of material
nature [<i>rajo-guna</i> and <i>tamo-guna</i>]? How will they know You?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Later,
Lord Shiva, who is often pictured in meditation, explains to his wife who it is
that he meditates on while in trance. He says, “O Goddess, You have now seen
the illusory energy of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is the unborn
master of everyone. Although I am one of the principal expansions of His
Lordship, even I was illusioned by His energy. What then is to be said of
others, who are fully dependent on maya? When I finished performing mystic yoga
for one thousand years, you asked me upon whom was I meditating. Now, here is
the Supreme Person to whom time has no entrance and who the <i>Vedas</i> cannot
understand.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Another
time when Lord Shiva described his subservient position was when Lord Krishna
was <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Krishna,_battling_with_Banasura_1"></a>battling with <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Banasura_1"></a>Banasura,
who was a devotee of Lord Shiva, and was cutting off his hundreds of arms. When
it looked like Banasura was about to lose his life, Lord Shiva, who had also
been a part of the battle scene, approached Lord Krishna to pacify Him and spare
Banasura’s life. Therein (<i>Bhagavatam</i> 10.63.34-45) it is related, “Sri
Rudra said: You alone are the absolute Truth, the supreme light, the mystery
hidden within the verbal manifestation of the Absolute. Those whose hearts are
spotless can see You, for You are uncontaminated, like the sky.” In the ten
verses that follow, Lord Shiva also addresses Lord Krishna in other ways:
“Your current descent into the material realm, O Lord of unrestricted power,
is meant for upholding the principles of justice and benefitting the entire
universe. We demigods, each depending on Your grace and authority, develop the
seven planetary systems. You are the original person, one without a second,
transcendental and self-manifesting. Uncaused, you are the cause of all, and You
are the ultimate controller.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">When
Uddhava was praying to Lord Krishna, he said, “Even Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva
act only as Your instruments in cosmic creation and annihilation, which are
ultimately done by You, The Supreme Lord, in Your invisible aspect of time.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">One
of the major differences between Shiva and Krishna is described as follows:
“Sri Shukadeva Gosvami said: Lord Shiva is always united with his personal
energy, the material nature. Manifesting himself in three features in response
to the entreaties of nature’s three modes, he thus embodies the threefold
principle of material ego in goodness, passion and ignorance. The sixteen
elements have evolved as transformations of that false ego. When a devotee of
Lord Shiva worships his manifestation in any one of these elements, the devotee
obtains all sorts of corresponding enjoyable opulences. Lord Hari, however, has
no connection with the material modes. He is the Supreme Personality of Godhead,
the all-seeing eternal witness, who is transcendental to material nature. One
who worships Him becomes similarly free from the material modes.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thus a worshiper of Lord Shiva gets the results that are conditional to the
affects of material nature, while a worshiper of Lord Krishna gets released from
the material nature rather than receiving material opulences.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> So
in this regard, Sri Shukadeva Gosvami said, “Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Lord
Shiva and others are able to curse or bless one. Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma are
very quick to curse or bestow benedictions, my dear King, but the infallible
Supreme Lord is not.”</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Another
aspect of understanding Shiva’s position has to do with his purpose, which is
connected with how he appeared. This is clearly explained in the ancient text of
the <i>Brahma</i>-<i>samhita </i>(verse 15). Therein we find it said “The same
Maha-Vishnu created [His next expansion of] Vishnu [Garbhodakashayi Vishnu] from
His left limb, Brahma, the first progenitor of beings, from His right limb and,
from the space between His two eyebrows, Shambhu, the divine masculine
manifested halo.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
an explanation of this, when the mundane
creation of the universe is manifested, then the principle of Shambhu in the
form of Rudra is born from the space between the two eyebrows of Vishnu. Shambhu
enshrines the principle of materialistic ego. This principle makes the living
being identify with the material body, subject to the desires for material and
bodily happiness. (<i>Brahma-samhita</i>, verse 16, purport)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> So
the power of Lord Shiva comes from the potency of Lord Vishnu. This is described
as follows in verse 10 of the <i>Brahma-samhita</i>: “The person embodying the
material causal principle, viz., the great lord of this mundane world [Maheshvara]
Shambhu, in the form of the male generating organ, is joined to his female
consort, the limited energy [Maya] as the efficient causal principle. The Lord
of the world Maha-Vishnu is manifest in him by His subjective portion in the
form of His glance.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> In
this way, during the process of the material creation, and when Maha-Vishnu
casts His glance onto the shadowy potency of Maya, Shambhu, lord of the <i>pradhana
</i>(the unmanifest material ingredients), who is the same as Rudra, consummates
his intercourse with Maya, the efficient principle of the cause of mundane
energy. But Shambhu can do nothing independent of the energy of Maha-Vishnu, who
represents the direct spiritual power of Krishna. In this way, the principle of
the material creation is produced only when Maha-Vishnu, the plenary portion of
Lord Krishna, is propitious towards the active endeavors of Maya, Shiva’s
consort, and the principle of mundane causality. (<i>Brahma-samhita</i>, verse
10, purport)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">So the
difference between Maha-Vishnu and Shiva as Shambhu is more clearly described in
the <i>Brahma-samhita</i> (verse 45) as follows: “Just as milk is transformed
into curd by the action of acids, but yet the effect curd is neither the same
as, nor different from, its cause, viz., milk, so I adore the primeval Lord
Govinda of whom the state of Shambhu is a transformation for the performance of
the work of destruction.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Shiva is
not a second Godhead other than Krishna. In fact, those who entertain such a
discriminating sentiment commit a great offense to the Supreme Lord. The
position of Shambhu is subservient to that of Govinda, Krishna. Hence they are
not really different from each other, as the above verse indicates. But as
yogurt comes from its initial cause, so Shiva is manifest according to his
initial cause, which is from Krishna through Maha-Vishnu. So God takes a
subservient position to His direct forms when He attains a distinct personality
by the addition of a particular element of adulteration, which is the form of
Lord Shiva or Shambhu, through which the Lord comes in contact with the material
energy, since Maha-Vishnu never does touch the mundane energy. However, Shiva
has no independent initiative or ability.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Srila
Bhaktisiddhanta further describes that in this way, Govinda manifests Himself as
a plenary portion which, in this case, is a <i>guna-avatara </i>in the form of
Shambhu, lord of <i>tamo-guna </i>or the mode of darkness... Thus, Shambhu, in
pursuance of the will of Govinda, works in union with his consort, Durga-devi,
by his own time energy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Therefore,
the real difference between Govinda and Shiva or Brahma is that all the majestic
attributes of God are fully present in the form of Govinda, Krishna. Shiva and
Brahma are entities adulterated with mundane qualities, however slight they may
be. Though Vishnu is also a divine appearance in the mode of goodness, still He
is not adulterated. The appearance of Narayana as Maha-Vishnu, or as
Garbhodakashayi Vishnu (Vishnu’s expansion in each universe) and
Kshirodakashayi Vishnu (Vishnu’s expansion as the Supersoul), are examples of
the ubiquitous function of the Supreme Divinity. Lord Vishnu is Godhead Himself,
and the two other <i>guna-avataras</i> and all the other gods are entities
possessing authority in subordination to Him. The different incarnations of the
Supreme Being, Govinda, are the same as the same light appearing in different
candles, all shining by the spiritual potency of Govinda, Krishna. (<i>Brahma-samhita</i>,
verse forty-six, purport)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This makes it
clear that the forms and positions of Shiva and Brahma are eternal, but only in
the context of the endurance of the material creation. Lord Shiva is the lord of
<i>tamo-guna</i> and material nature, but not of the spiritual world. It is Lord
Krishna who is described as the Supreme Being and controller of both the
spiritual and material energies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Lord Krishna has sixty divine
qualities in their fullest measure. While 50 of the divine qualities of the <i>jiva
</i>souls are present along with five additional qualities in Lord Brahma, yet
in Shiva these fifty-five qualities are also present but in greater degrees than
in Lord Brahma. (<i>Brahma-samhita</i>, verse 49, purport) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thus,
the position of Lord Shiva has been described relative to his purpose and
function within the material creation, and his form as an expansion of Lord
Krishna.</span><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-24019396644437333692012-11-22T22:50:00.001-08:002012-11-22T22:50:13.399-08:00Devotee's Of Krishna and Shiva<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica; font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">KRISHNA
DEVOTEES ARE DEAR TO SHIVA </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">AND
SHIVA IS DEAR TO THEM</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Shiva
works for the benefit of everyone, and tries to help the living beings make
spiritual advancement. This is why he has his own line of disciplic succession.
This is also why he says to the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Pracinibarhi_1"></a>sons of King
Pracinibarhi, “Any person who is surrendered to the Supreme Personality of
God, Lord Krishna, the controller of everything, is very dear to me.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The
sons of the King were going to practice austerities to worship Lord Vishnu and
while searching for a suitable place happened to find Lord Shiva. His bodily
luster was like molten gold, his throat was bluish, he had three eyes, and was
accompanied by musicians who were glorifying him. Shiva is the protector of the
pious and those of gentle behavior. So he was pleased to speak to the princes
the way he did. He continued in this way :</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> “A
person who is directly surrendered to Lord Krishna, or Vishnu, in unalloyed
devotional service is immediately promoted to the spiritual planets. I, Lord
Shiva, and other demigods attain these planets only after the destruction of the
material world. You are all devotees of the Lord, and as such I appreciate that
you are as respectable as the Supreme Personality of Godhead Himself. I know in
this way that the devotees also respect me and that I am dear to them. Thus no
one can be as dear to the devotees as I am.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> In
this way, a devotee of Krishna does not disrespect Lord Shiva, but worships him
as the greatest of devotees of Lord Krishna. A Krishna <i>bhakta</i> also prays
to Lord Shiva, but asks Shiva to assist him in attaining the favor of Lord
Krishna, and not merely for material benefits. As we find in the Tulasi <i>Ramayana</i>
(Uttara-Kanda, Doha 45), Lord Rama says “With joined palms I lay before you
another secret doctrine: without adoring Sankara (Lord Shiva) man cannot attain
devotion to Me.” So in this way, Shiva can assist us in attaining devotion to
Lord Krishna and His expansions .</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">After
Lord Shiva had spoken to the sons of King Pracinabarhi, he relates a particular
mantra for their benefit, which is pure and auspicious for anyone who wants to
attain the ultimate goal of life. This mantra is called Shiva’s Song, and
consists of verses 33 to 79 of the Twenty-fourth Chapter of the Forth Canto in <i>Srimad-Bhagavatam</i>.
He starts his prayer with this verse:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> “O
Supreme Personality of Godhead, all glories unto You. You are the most exalted
of all self-realized souls. Since You are always auspicious for the
self-realized, I wish that You be auspicious to me. You are worshipable by
virtue of the all perfect instructions You give. You are the Supersoul;
therefore I offer my obeisances unto You as the supreme living bring.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Through
the remaining 45 verses of this prayer, Lord Shiva praises the many qualities,
characteristics, and powers of the Supreme Being in the form of Lord Krishna. At
the end of many years in which the sons of the King, called the Pracetas,
repeated this prayer everyday, Lord Vishnu Himself appeared to them. He said,
“Those who will offer Me the prayers composed by Lord Shiva, both in the
morning and in the evening, will be given benedictions by Me. In this way they
can both fulfill their desires and attain good intelligence.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">Also
in the <i>Bhagavatam</i> (4.6.42-53), we can see Lord Shiva’s greatness among
the demigods. During the disastrous ritual of Daksha, who displayed great
dislike toward Shiva and Shiva’s wife, Durga (Sati) immolated herself in fire.
Sati was Daksha’s own daughter and could not tolerate the insults her father
made toward her husband, Shiva. So while in meditation she burst into flames.
Thereafter, Lord Brahma and the demigods went to pacify Lord Shiva. Brahma
consoled Shiva and addressed him as “My dear Lord,” and called him the
controller of the entire universe, the combination of mother and father of the
universe, and the Supreme Brahman, beyond this creation. Therein we can see that
Brahma, the partial creator of the universe, offers praises to Lord Shiva as a
superior. This is to appease Lord Shiva, since it is known that his anger can
annihilate the universe.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> When
the ritual was able to continue and Daksha offered the clarified butter with the
mantras from the <i>Yajur-veda</i>, Lord Vishnu appeared there in His original
form as Narayana. As described in the <i>Bhagavatam</i> (4.7.18-29) as soon as
Lord Vishnu appeared, all the demigods, including Lord Brahma, Shiva, the
Gandharvas and sages, immediately offered their respectful obeisances. In the
presence of Lord Vishnu’s glaring effulgence from His body, everyone else’s
luster faded. Everyone offered their prayers to Him. Therein, Lord Shiva
addresses Lord Vishnu, “My dear Lord, my mind and consciousness are always
fixed on Your lotus feet, which, as the source of all benediction and the
fulfillment of all desires, are worshiped by all liberated sages because Your
lotus feet are worthy of worship. With my mind fixed on Your lotus feet, I am no
longer disturbed by persons who blaspheme me, claiming that my activities are
not purified. I do not mind their accusations, and I excuse them out of
compassion, just as You exhibit compassion toward all living entities.”</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> After
all the personalities had offered their prayers to Lord Vishnu, He replied to
Daksha, “<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Brahma_1"></a>Brahma, Shiva and I are the supreme
cause of the material manifestation. I am the Supersoul, the self-effulgent
witness. But impersonally there is no difference between Brahma, Lord Shiva and
Me. I am the original Personality of Godhead, but in order to create, maintain
and annihilate this cosmic manifestation, I act through My material energy, and
according to different grades of activity, My representations are equally named.
One who is not in proper knowledge thinks that the demigods like Brahma and
Shiva are independent, or he even thinks that the living entities are
independent. A person with average intelligence does not think the head and
other parts of the body to be separate. Similarly, My devotee does not
differentiate Vishnu, the all-pervading Personality, from anything or any living
entity. One who does not consider Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva or the living entities
in general to be separate from the Supreme, and who knows Brahman, actually
realizes peace; others do not.”</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">What
this indicates is the interdependence of the demigods on Lord Vishnu. Lord
Vishnu is the ultimate cause of the universal creation. Lord Brahma was born out
of Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva was <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_born_from_Brahma_1"></a>born
from Lord Brahma. It is the energy that comes from Lord Vishnu, in the form of
Lord Brahma and Shiva, that creates and annihilates the universe. Lord Brahma is
manifested for the continuation of the creation, while Lord Shiva assists in the
annihilation. In this way, they are interconnected and work together like parts
of a single body. Yet, they all play distinct and significant roles in the
affairs of the cosmos, but are dependent on Lord Vishnu. When we see that all
living beings are expansions from the Supreme Lord and His energy, then one can
achieve real peace.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> In
fact, it is said that these sages and devotees who see with such equal vision
become worshipable by Lord Shiva, Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Once when Lord Shiva
was traveling, he met the great sage Markandeya as he was coming out of his
yogic trance. At that time, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Markandeya_1"></a>Markandeya offered
prayers to Lord Shiva who blessed the sage and then asked if there were any
benedictions that the sage wanted. As described in the <i>Bhagavatam</i>
(12.10.19-22) <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Suta_Gosvami_1"></a>Suta Gosvami said: “Lord
Shiva, the foremost demigod and the shelter of the saintly devotees, was
satisfied by Markandeya’s praise. Pleased, he smiled and addressed the sage.
Lord Shiva said: Please ask me for some benediction, since among all givers of
benedictions, we three--Brahma, Vishnu and I--are the best. Seeing us never goes
in vain, because simply by seeing us a mortal achieves immortality. The
inhabitants and ruling demigods of all planets, along with Lord Brahma, the
Supreme Lord Hari and I, glorify, worship and assist those brahmanas who are
saintly, always peaceful, free of material attachment, compassionate to all
living beings, purely devoted to us, devoid of hatred and endowed with equal
vision. These devotees do not differentiate between Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma and
me, nor do they differentiate between themselves and other living beings.
Therefore, because you are this kind of saintly devotee, we worship you.”</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6285367669005927682.post-13971972683795278042012-11-22T22:40:00.002-08:002012-11-22T23:03:33.499-08:00Who Is Lord Shiva ?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"> Who Is Lord Shiva ?</span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;">The
different Vedic gods have particular roles or functions, and represent or
control different forces of nature. Thus, they are not all the same. They all
have different meanings and potencies to do particular things in the arrangement
and management of the universal creation. In this way, most of them have
specific positions and purposes to help facilitate the cause for the creation,
maintenance, and even the destruction of the universe. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"> Since our analysis of the
Vedic texts indicated that the <i>Bhagavatam</i> was the most ripened fruit of
Vedic knowledge, as well as being the<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Bhagavatam_commentary_of_all_Vedanta_by_Srila_Vyasadeva_1"></a>
commentary of all Vedanta by Srila Vyasadeva Himself, we will include the
conclusive descriptions as found in the <i>Bhagavatam</i> to reach our
definitive understanding.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;">
The most prominent of all
the Vedic gods consists of the Trinity of Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Brahma
assists in creating the world, Vishnu maintains it, and Shiva helps in its
annihilation. Those that
follow the Vedic path, can generally be divided into three main categories ;namely those who <b>worship</b> <b>Shiva and are Shaivites</b>, those who <b>worship Shakti or
the Goddess and are Shaktas</b>, and those who <b>worship Vishnu, the Vaishnavas</b> . <br />
<br />
</span><br />
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">One
of the most significant of all the Vedic gods is <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_1"></a>Shiva.
And one of the most noted of all the goddesses is Shiva’s wife, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Durga_1"></a>Durga.
They also go by many other names. For example, Durga is also called Parvati and
Sati, which means chastity. The name Shiva means auspicious. Shiva is known by
many different names according to his function. When, for example, he expresses
himself through space and time, he is known <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_as_Eshwara_or_Sadashiva_1"></a>as
Eshwara. He is called Sadashiva when he functions through air, which
incorporates the principles of both sound and touch. Shiva is known <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_as_Rudra_1"></a>as
Rudra when he operates through fire, which incorporates the principles of sound,
touch and form.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Shiva
is the embodiment and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva,__controller_of_tama-guna_1"></a>controller
of <i>tama-guna</i>, the mode of darkness, inertia, and the tendency towards
annihilation. This is how he assists in the destruction of the cosmic creation
in the end times, as well as in the exhibition of continuous forms of death and
destruction that we see every day. However, this demise and dissolution can also
be viewed as a renewal, which is also considered to be a part of Shiva.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">We
can find additional characteristics of Lord Shiva in the <i>Srimad-Bhagavatam</i>
(4.2.2) in which it states that Lord Shiva is the spiritual master of the entire
world. He is a peaceful personality, free from enmity, always satisfied in
himself. He is the greatest among all the demigods. He is the spiritual master
of the world by showing how to worship the Supreme. He is considered the best of
all devotees. Therefore, he has his own spiritual line or <i>sampradaya</i>
called the Rudra-sampradaya that comes directly from him. These days it is also
found in the Vishnusvami-sampradaya, or the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Rudra-sampradaya_also_Vallabha-sampradaya_1"></a>Vallabha-sampradaya.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">Shiva
is described as the most powerful, second only to Lord Vishnu. In
this way, he is not the Supreme, but is almost as powerful. Although he has
nothing to attain in this material world, he is always engaged for the benefit
of everyone in this universe, and is accompanied by his material and dangerous
energies like goddess <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Kali_1"></a>Kali and goddess <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Durga_1"></a>Durga.
They serve him by killing all kinds of demons and impious persons. War
represents Kali’s energy of devastation. Sometimes we see pictures of a fierce
form of Kali standing with one foot on the body of Shiva. This is because Shiva
sometimes has to lie down in front of her to pacify her from killing all the
demoniac people in the world. In this way, Shiva controls the material energy.
Lord Shiva is also in control of the destructive energy, <i>tamo-guna</i>, the
mode of darkness, and is assisted by Kali and Durga in this purpose. Durga helps
him in keeping the majority of the living beings in the darkness of ignorance.
That is why Durga and Kali are described as dangerous potencies. Only those who
are serious about spiritual life are protected from this darkness.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Shiva
is often shown as a handsome young man, with long hair from which flows a spurt
of the Ganga (Ganges) River (an emblem of purity) and in which is also a
crescent moon. He is also white or light bluish in complexion, sometimes with a
third eye between the eyebrows on the forehead, and usually with four arms (a
sign of universal power) holding a Trishula (a trident, showing his ruling
proficiency over the three modes of nature), the Damaru (small hour-glass shaped
drum, the beating of which represents language or the alphabet), and exhibiting
the <i>mudras</i> (hand positions) of Abhaya (protection) and Varada (giving
blessings).</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> It
is also said that Shiva’s drum represents <i>srishti</i>, the creation; the <i>abhaya
</i>hand (giving blessings) represents <i>sthiti</i>, or preservation; his foot
that presses down symbolizes <i>tirobhava</i>, or the veiling effect; and the
uplifted foot means blessings (<i>anugraha</i>), especially toward seeing
through the veil of illusion caused by ego. When he is shown with an axe, it
represents <i>samhara</i>, destruction.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sometimes
he is shown with eight, ten or even thirty-two hands. These represent his
various potencies and contain such things as an Akshamala (rosary that signifies
being the master of spiritual sciences), the Khatvanga (magic wand which shows
his being an adept in occult sciences), a Darpana (a mirror showing that the
creation is a reflection of his cosmic form), a <i>chakra</i> (disc), a noose, a
staff, a bow, a Pashupata spear, a lotus, sword, and so on. He is often sitting
on or wearing a tiger skin. The tiger skin represents his command over his
desires, which often consumes common men like a tiger.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">Shiva
is often shown with serpents entwined around his arms, waist, neck and hair.
Snakes often invoke fear. So this represents how Shiva is free from fear. The
snake also signifies time. If a poisonous snake bites someone, it is only a
matter of time before that person will die. And time catches up with everyone
sooner or later. So Lord Shiva is the Lord over time and death. These serpents
also indicate that he is surrounded by death but beyond the power of it.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;">Shiva
is also seen with ash from the cremation grounds smeared over his body. This is
called <i>vibhuti</i>. It symbolizes death or detachment from the world and
lust. It also indicates that our bodies, being inert matter in their essential
form, will also become ashes when we die and if the body is cremated. Thus, we
must rise above the bodily identification and become conscious of our real
identity within. Ash is the sign of Shiva’s complete renunciation of the
world.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sometimes
Shiva is shown wearing a garland of skulls. The skulls are representative of his
being the lord of destruction and the cyclical nature of the appearance and
disappearance of the material creation.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> One
of the most beautiful forms of Lord Shiva is portrayed in his dancing position,
known as <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Shiva_as_Nataraja_1"></a>Nataraja, the king of dancers.
As <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Nataraja_1"></a>Nataraja, Shiva holds his damaru drum in his
upper right hand. This indicates <i>nada</i>, the sound of the universal
development. In his other hand, he holds a flame of destruction. Together these
indicate both creation and destruction, the counterpoints of all material
existence. His right hand is also held in the position of blessing and
protection. As Nataraja, he also wears the skin of a tiger, which he slew. This
represents the ego, which will fight when attacked and must be killed by the
knowledge of the guru, or the wisdom of Nataraja himself. As Nataraja, he is
shown with one foot subduing or standing on the body of Mahamaya, the illusion
which is the cause of all suffering. The other foot is raised upward, which
represents the attainment of the <i>turiya</i> state beyond the states of
waking, dreaming, deep sleep, and the influence of the mind and creation. Thus,
he is completely free from all of these.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> There
are many stories that relate how and why Shiva appears the way he does. For
example, Lord Shiva is shown at times with a third eye in between his eyebrows
on his forehead. It is said that his third eye represents the eye of wisdom, or
inner sight. The other two eyes represent the balanced form of love and justice.
Thus, Lord Shiva is not too harsh nor too lenient, but views everything with the
proper proportions of love, justice, and inner knowledge. Together, Shiva’s
three eyes also represent the sun, moon and fire, the means by which the
universe is illuminated. How Shiva got a third eye is explained that one day
Shiva’s wife Parvati covered Shiva’s eyes with her hands and the whole world
was enveloped in darkness. Then Shiva willed the third eye to manifest, which
sent forth light, heat and fire.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Another
story is that once when the heavenly Ganga river was descending onto the earth,
the weight of its force would have crushed the world, so Shiva accepted it on
his head, wherein it stayed until it was ready to be released. The <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6285367669005927682" name="#Index_Ganga_River_1"></a>Ganga
River is considered to have entered the universe when the Supreme Lord in His
incarnation as Vamanadeva kicked the outer shell of the universe with His toe,
thus letting in some of the water of the Karanadakashayi Ocean, the spiritual
water that surrounds the universe. This became the holy Ganga. Thus, it is
considered the foot wash of the Lord. So Lord Shiva takes this water on his
head.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Shiva’s
Ganga water is also said to represent the flow of knowledge and devotion to God.
Shiva is known as the foremost devotee of Lord Krishna, Vishnu, or Lord Rama,
which is one of the meanings of the spout of Ganga water on Shiva’s head.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> The
<i>Bhagavatam</i> (10.41.15) relates: “The water of the river Ganga [Ganges]
has purified the three worlds, having become transcendental by bathing Your
[Lord Vishnu’s] feet. Lord Shiva accepted that water on his head, and by that
water’s grace the sons of King Sagara attained heaven.”</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Another
story is that during the time when the demons and demigods were churning the
ocean of milk, many objects started to be produced from it. One was the moon,
which Shiva took and placed in his hair. This represents the phases of the moon
or the passing of time, which is but an ornament for Shiva since he is not
affected by it. The crescent moon also signifies the happiness of life,
especially when it is based on a spiritual purpose. The rays of the moon enhance
one’s inspiration and energy for spiritual life, just as it is said that the
rays of the moon nourish the vegetable kingdom. It represents the cooling light
of the knowledge of the Self, and the way life should be when lived in that
knowledge.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Another
object that appeared from the churning was the severe poison which Shiva drank
to keep it from spreading. However, Parvati, being alarmed at this, grabbed his
throat so it could not go down, which is where he kept the poison, and which
made his throat turn blue.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Shiva
is often portrayed standing next to or on his bull, Nandikeshvara or Nandi
(meaning joyful). Symbolically, Nandi represents the animal tendencies, such as
the urge for sex, which are tamed and docile by Lord Shiva’s mastery over it.
Thus, he rides on Nandi, who is obedient to Shiva’s command. Nandi also
represents strength and virility. He is often seen in temples of Shiva in a
reclining position in front of the main shrine, gazing toward the image of
Shiva. Nandi also represents the <i>jivatma</i>, the individual soul, and the
animalistic impulses that will carry it away into material existence, unless
such tendencies are curbed.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica;"></span><br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0