Siva
Noun 1. The destroyer; one of the three major divinities in the later Hindu pantheon: Siva is one of the principal deities of Hinduism, forming the Trimurti (trinity) with Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the preserver). As the destroyer, Siva is associated with dissolution, transformation, and regeneration.
- Noun:
- In Hindu mythology, Siva is often depicted with a third eye and a serpent around his neck.
- The temple was dedicated to the worship of Siva.
- Many festivals celebrate the power and benevolence of Siva.
"Siva as Nataraja": Refers to Siva in his form as the cosmic dancer, symbolizing the rhythmic cycles of creation and destruction.
- The bronze statue depicted Siva as Nataraja, dancing within a circle of flames.
"Siva Linga": A symbolic representation of Siva, often worshipped as a phallic emblem signifying generative energy.
- Devotees offered flowers and water to the Siva Linga.
Shiva: The more common modern transliteration of the same deity's name.
- The terms Siva and Shiva refer to the same god.
Shaivism (n): A major tradition within Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Siva as the Supreme Being.
- Shaivism has many different philosophical schools.
Saivite (n): A follower or devotee of Siva.
- The Saivite monk performed the daily rituals.
- The Destroyer: A direct translation of one of his primary roles.
- Mahadeva: Meaning "Great God," a common epithet for Siva.
- Rudra: An earlier Vedic deity later identified with Siva.
"Om Namah Shivaya": A central mantra or sacred chant in praise of Siva.
- The pilgrims chanted "Om Namah Shivaya" throughout their journey.
"Siva's trident (trishula)": A three-pronged spear, his characteristic weapon symbolizing the three fundamental powers (creation, preservation, destruction) or the destruction of the three types of misery.
- The deity was shown holding Siva's trident.
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the destroyer; one of the three major divinities in the later Hindu pantheon