Shiva

Shiva is a major deity in Hinduism, known as the Destroyer within the Trimurti, a concept that includes the three main forms of the supreme divinity. Shiva is also regarded as one of the primary forms of God in Shaivism, one of the major traditions within Hinduism. The name "Shiva" means "auspicious one" and is also translated as "the one who is not deluded" or "the one who purifies". In Hebrew, Shiva is transliterated as שִׁיבָּא. In Sanskrit, the language in which most Hindu scriptures are written, the name is written as शिव. Shiva is often depicted with a third eye on his forehead, a crescent moon adorning his hair, a trident called Trishula, and a drum called Damaru. He is usually seated on a tiger skin and is accompanied by his consort, Parvati, and his sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya. Shiva is also known by many other names, such as Mahadeva, Mahesh, and Shankara, each highlighting different aspects of his divine nature. As the Destroyer, Shiva is responsible for the dissolution of the universe, a role that is crucial for the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction that is central to Hindu cosmology. Shiva's worship is deeply rooted in yoga, meditation, and ascetic practices, and he is often depicted in a meditative state, symbolizing his role as the ultimate yogi. His followers, known as Shaivites, consider him the supreme god and the ultimate reality.