Who is Lord Shiva? The Destroyer and the Auspicious One
Written and reviewed by The Kriya Yogi · Updated 20 May 2024
Lord Shiva is one of the most complex and revered figures in the Hindu pantheon. Known as 'The Destroyer' within the Trimurti (the Hindu trinity), he is also the 'Auspicious One' (Shiva). He represents the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, serving as the ultimate force of transformation. For yogis, he is Adiyogi, the first teacher of yoga, representing the stillness of consciousness from which all movement arises.
The short answers
- Member of the Trimurti along with Brahma and Vishnu.
- Known as the Destroyer, making way for new creation.
- Regarded as the Adiyogi, the first teacher of Yoga and Tantra.
- Resides on Mount Kailash, symbolizing the peak of spiritual consciousness.
- Associated with both fierce (Bhairava) and peaceful (Shankara) forms.
- Central figure in Shaivism, one of the major traditions of Hinduism.
The Role of the Destroyer
In the Hindu trinity, Shiva is tasked with destruction. However, this is not a negative force. In Hindu philosophy, creation and destruction are two sides of the same coin. For something new to be born, the old must pass away. Shiva destroys ignorance, ego, and the physical universe at the end of a cosmic cycle (kalpa), allowing for a new cycle of creation by Brahma.
Adiyogi: The First Yogi
Shiva is often depicted as a wandering ascetic, covered in ash, sitting in deep meditation. He is considered the source of all yogic knowledge. Legend says that millions of years ago, he imparted the science of Yoga to the Saptarishis (the seven sages) on the banks of Lake Kantisarovar. This makes him the patron deity of yoga and meditation, representing the mastery of the mind and the body.
The Paradoxical Nature of Shiva
Shiva is a deity of contradictions. He is a family man (husband to Parvati, father to Ganesha and Kartikeya) yet a detached ascetic. He is a fierce warrior yet a compassionate healer. He represents the union of opposites—stillness and dance, destruction and grace. This complexity reflects the nature of existence itself, which is never just one thing.
Shiva in Daily Life
For millions, Shiva is not just a mythological figure but a living presence. Devotees perform 'Abhishekam' (ritual bathing of the Lingam), chant his name, and observe fasts. His influence extends beyond religion into art, dance (Nataraja), and the very foundation of Indian philosophy and spirituality.
Approaching it with care
Chant the Panchakshara Mantra
Start with 'Om Namah Shivaya' to align your vibration with Shiva consciousness.
Practice Stillness
Engage in meditation, focusing on the space between your thoughts, which represents Shiva.
Embrace Change
Practice letting go of old habits, viewing 'destruction' as an opportunity for growth.
Visit a Shiva Temple
Experience the energy of a consecrated space dedicated to the Lord of Transformation.
Cautions worth reading
- Avoid viewing Shiva's 'destruction' as purely malevolent; it is transformative.
- Respect the cultural and religious traditions associated with Shaivism.
- Remember that 'Adiyogi' represents the potential for human liberation through discipline.
What scholars and evidence say
The Vedas and Puranas, along with archaeological evidence from the Indus Valley Civilization (like the Pashupati seal), document the ancient roots of Shiva worship.
Questions people ask
+ Is Shiva a god of death?
+ Why does Shiva have a third eye?
+ What is Shiva's relationship to Yoga?
+ Where does Shiva live?
+ What is the meaning of the name Shiva?
Sources
- The Shiva Purana
- Sadhguru, 'Adiyogi: The Source of Yoga'
- Stella Kramrisch, 'The Presence of Siva'
- Alain Daniélou, 'Gods of India'
These are living traditions, best approached with a teacher or community where possible. Nothing here is medical advice; check with a clinician before starting a new movement or meditation practice if you have a health condition.