Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadeva or the Great God, is one of the principal deities in Hinduism. He is considered the destroyer and transformer within the Trimurti, the Hindu trinity, alongside Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the preserver). Shiva is often depicted with a third eye on his forehead, a crescent moon on his head, matted hair, a serpent around his neck, and a trident in his hand.
Parvati, also known as Devi, is the divine consort of Lord Shiva. She is considered the supreme goddess and represents the feminine energy, Shakti. Parvati is worshipped as the mother goddess, the nurturing and compassionate aspect of the divine. She is often depicted with various attributes and manifestations, such as Durga, Kali, and Uma.
The relationship between Shiva and Parvati is a central theme in Hindu mythology and represents the union of the male and female energies or the divine masculine and feminine aspects. They are often depicted together in various mythological stories and are considered inseparable. Their union symbolizes the harmonious balance between the male and female principles, which is essential for the cosmic order and the sustenance of the universe.
The marriage of Shiva and Parvati is a significant event in Hindu mythology. According to the legends, Parvati performed intense penance to win the love of Lord Shiva. Impressed by her devotion and determination, Shiva agreed to marry her. Their divine marriage is celebrated as the festival of Maha Shivaratri by devotees around the world.
The divine couple also has two sons, Kartikeya (also known as Skanda or Murugan) and Ganesha. Kartikeya is considered the commander of the celestial armies and the god of war, while Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and the patron of arts and sciences.
The stories and symbolism associated with Shiva and Parvati vary in different regions and texts within Hinduism. Their tales highlight various aspects of their divine nature and their role in the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution.
While this provides a brief overview of Shiva, Parvati, and their association in Hindu mythology, there is a wealth of literature and scriptures that delve deeper into their significance and stories. Exploring these texts can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the mythology and symbolism surrounding Shiva and Parvati.
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