23/05/2025
Here are some interesting facts related to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati:
1. Meaning of Shiva: The name "Shiva" means "auspicious" or "benevolent." He is known as the destroyer, but his destructive form is meant for the recreation of the universe.
2. Parvati's Origin: The name Parvati is derived from the word "Parvat," as she was born to King Himalaya and Queen Mainavati. She is also known as "Shailputri," meaning the daughter of the mountain.
3. Shiva's Third Eye: Lord Shiva has three eyes – two regular ones and a third eye on his forehead. The third eye symbolizes knowledge, wisdom, and inner vision. When it opens, it releases destructive energy.
4. Parvati's Penance: Goddess Parvati performed severe penance to attain Lord Shiva as her husband. Impressed by her devotion, Shiva appeared before her and promised to marry her.
5. Marriage of Shiva and Parvati: The marriage of Shiva and Parvati was celebrated with great pomp, attended by gods, sages, and even demons. Their union symbolizes love, sacrifice, and devotion to the world.
6. Ardhanarishvara Form: The Ardhanarishvara form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, where they are depicted as one body divided into two halves, symbolizes the balance between male and female, power and peace, life and death.
7. Shiva’s Simple Life: Lord Shiva's appearance is very simple and humble. He wears the Ganga in his matted hair, the crescent moon on his head, ashes on his body, and a snake around his neck, symbolizing a balanced and simple life.
8. Various Incarnations of Parvati: Goddess Parvati took many incarnations to protect her devotees and destroy evil, such as Durga, Kali, Annapurna, and Sati.
9. Shiva’s Vehicle – Nandi: Nandi, the bull, is the vehicle and the main attendant of Lord Shiva. Worshipping Nandi is an essential part of Shiva worship, and he is known as Shiva's gatekeeper.
10. Shiva-Parvati’s Family Life: Shiva and Parvati have an ideal family life. They have two sons, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. Their family is known as the "Shiva Family," symbolizing love, trust, and harmony.
These facts highlight the glory of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, their various forms, and their divine relationship. Their love, sacrifice, and devotion inspire us to seek balance and simplicity in life.
