Shaivite

Shaivite refers to adherents of Shaivism, a major tradition within Hinduism that centers on the worship of Shiva as the supreme being. Shaivism encompasses a wide range of beliefs and practices, from temple devotion to philosophical systems, and has ancient roots in the Indian subcontinent with regional variations that developed over centuries.

Beliefs in Shaivism view Shiva as the ultimate reality, sanctioning the cosmos, its creation, preservation, and dissolution. Shiva is worshiped in many forms and names, such as Nataraja and Mahadeva, and is often contemplated through symbols like the lingam. Shaiva traditions draw on both the Vedas and the Shaiva Agamas, along with regional scriptures. Some schools emphasize ardent bhakti (devotion) to Shiva, while others pursue non-dual realization or moksha through knowledge, inner experience, or grace. Practices may include yoga, ascetic disciplines, and tantra in certain lineages.

Practices and texts vary by tradition but commonly feature temple and home worship, ritual puja, and recitation of mantras such as Om Namah Shivaya. Sacred geography and pilgrimages to sites like Varanasi, Kedarnath, or Amarnath are important for many followers. Scriptural sources include Hindu classics alongside Shaiva-specific ctexts like the Shaiva Agamas, as well as Tamil Saiva works such as the Tevaram and Tirumurai, and later philosophical treatises.

Major branches include Tamil Shaiva Siddhanta, a dualistic, temple-centered tradition, and Kashmir Shaivism, a non-dual school emphasizing recognition of one’s unity with Shiva. Other historical strands include ascetic and tantric lineages such as the Pashupata tradition.

Shaivism has been influential across parts of India, Nepal, and beyond, shaping temple culture, festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, and various regional practices within Hinduism.