Siva

Siva, also spelled Shiva or Siva, is a major deity in Hinduism. He is worshiped in diverse traditions as a powerful, complex figure who embodies creation, protection, and destruction. In many traditions he is part of the Trimurti, the three-fold aspect of the divine that includes Brahma and Vishnu; in Shaivism he is regarded by many as the supreme reality. The name Siva means “auspicious” in Sanskrit.

Origins and iconography: Siva’s roots lie in the Vedic deity Rudra, who becomes the Puranic Shiva in later Hindu texts. He is associated with asceticism and yogic practice as well as with household life and transformative energy. Common symbols include the third eye, a crescent moon, and the river Ganges flowing from his matted hair; a serpent around the neck; a trident (trishula); and a drum (damaru). He is often depicted with the shivalinga as a symbolic form of generative power, and with his vehicle, the bull Nandi. Notable forms include Nataraja, the cosmic dancer, and various regional manifestations.

Family, myths, and places of worship: Siva’s consort is Parvati, and their sons are Ganesha and Kartikeya (Skanda). He appears in many myths, including those surrounding Sati and Parvati. Sacred sites associated with him include the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines and Mount Kailash in the Himalayas, a central pilgrimage focus, as well as prominent temples in cities such as Varanasi (Kashi) and Kedarnath.

Worship and influence: Shaivism is one of Hinduism’s major traditions and regards Siva as the supreme deity who governs the cycles of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Maha Shivaratri is a major festival honoring him. His imagery influences art, dance, and yoga, with enduring symbols such as the Nataraja form and the image of an ascetic yogi.