The Profound Symbolic Message of Shiva For those who wish to go beyond the physical form, Shiva’s outward appearance is a constant reminder of many fundamental truths. He is an embodiment of the three principal themes of Indian philosophy, which must be inculcated in our lives before any progress can be made on the spiritual path. 1). Bhakti (Devotion): The Ganges flowing from his hair represents the stream of bhakti. 2). Gyan (Knowledge): Shiva is constantly engaged in inward contemplation, totally oblivious to what’s happening outside, so much that he even appears intoxicated to those not initiated into his mystery. 3). Vairagya (Indifference and disenchantment with all worldly things): Shiva often frequents the cremation grounds and smears himself with ashes. What better example could there be of disenchantment with the living world? Vairagya means sacrificing everything, and the one who even while living, gives himself up to the funeral grounds, not needing nor expecting anything from the world, is perhaps the ideal example. As for the bull Shiva rides upon, ancient texts heap praise on it, calling it the Bull of Dharma: ‘The bull of dharma has forgiveness for its horns, control of the senses for its ears, the eyes of faith and the Vedas as its breath. (Shiva Purana Vidyeshvarasamhita:17.86). The Auspicious Beauty of Shiva Later Shiva, for the pleasure of Parvati’s mother, transformed himself into a supremely handsome male, dressed richly according to social norms: ‘Every part of his body was exquisite. He became fair, handsome and shone with a divine radiance. Embellished with many ornaments and a garland of fresh jasmine flowers, he smiled with delight, capturing his mother in law’s heart, who stood stunned at this fascinating view of beauty.’ capturing his mother in law’s heart, who stood stunned at this fascinating view of beauty.’ Shiva had in fact transformed himself into ‘Sundaramurti,’ or the embodiment of all masculine beauty on this earth. Indeed, the supremely auspicious image of Shiva marrying Parvati is aptly titled Kalyana Sundaram, or the beauty which grants welfare, the latter feature being inherent in Shiva’s epithet Shankara,, literally meaning ‘one who grants welfare (sham).’ The Strange Courtship The marriage of Shiva and Parvati was preceded by a long interval of courtship. It was no ordinary engagement however. The initiative was solely Parvati’s who was spurred on by a dream where she stood by Shiva as his wife. Soon after, by a happy coincidence it so transpired that Shiva stopped nearby on a mountain range to meditate and she went with her father to pay homage. The latter, knowing his daughter’s desire, requested Shiva to permit her to take care of his daily needs while he meditated. Even though Shiva realized this would be an impediment to his pursuits, he agreed on Parvati’s fervent appeal. Thus did Parvati first gain access to Shiva, and served him as he lost himself in inward contemplation, oblivious to the outside world. A young and charming maiden, alone with the male she adored, the circumstances were just ideal for Kamadeva, the god of love, to make his presence felt, and stoke passion between the two. One day, as she neared Shiva, Kamadeva fired his dart. Shiva immediately opened his eyes, which fell on Parvati, whose beauty affected him for the first time, prompting him to say: Is this face or the moon? Are these eyes or petals of a lotus? Is this your nose or the beak of a parrot? Whatever is graceful and sweet in this creation has been incorporated here. There is no woman equal to your beauty in the world. Shiva was tempted enough to touch her, and Parvati, tantalizing him, withdrew, and a little distance away cast meaningful glances at him. (Shiva Purana: Rudrasamhita III.18)
Posted on: Thu, 03 Jul 2014 04:37:33 +0000
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