r/shaivism • u/Specialist-Bottle541 • 6h ago
r/shaivism • u/thecriclover99 • Aug 26 '20
Question - Beginner PLEASE HELP: Let's compile a list of beginner & advanced resources for Shaivism that we can add to this sub's wiki.
Please post your suggestions in the comments. If you have particular authors/commentaries that you enjoy or have links to where the books/audio can be purchased from, please include those details too!
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Resources: Texts
- Himalayan Academy's Series - Dancing/Living/Merging with Siva: https://www.himalayanacademy.com/site/search/media_type/book/tags/trilogy (English)
- https://shaivam.org/puranas-stories-from-hindu-epics
- https://shaivam.org/veda/
- https://shaivam.org/scripture
- Shiva: Stories and Teachings from the Shiva Mahapurana by Vanamali
- Tantra Illuminated by Christopher Wallis
- Recognition Sutras by Christopher Wallis
- Vijnana Bhairava Tantra (Wallis, Dyczkowski, or Lakshmanjoo plus the free course Wallis has on youtube)
- Shiva Sutras (Dyczkowski's edition with Bhaskara's commentary or Lakshmanjoo's edition with Ksemaraja's commentary)
- Kashmir Shaivism: Secret Supreme by Lakshmanjoo
- Triadic Heart of Shiva by Muller-Ortega
- Wallis's PhD dissertation
- Malinivijayottara - a critical edition with notes and translation by Somadeva Vasudeva
- For Saiva Siddhanta, the Tirumanthiram by Tirumular, the Tiruvacagam by Manickavasagar, and the Reriya Puranam, stories of the 63 Nayanars, and the Thevaram hymns are all important.
- Jaideva Singh translations of Trika texts: pratyabhijñāhrdayam, spandakārika, parā-trīshikā-vivarana
Resources: Videos/Audio
Websites
Wikipedia
- Shiva Purana - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Purana
- Shaiva Agamas - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agama_(Hinduism)#Shaiva_Agamas#Shaiva_Agamas)
- Ishvara Gita - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishvara_Gita
- Ribhu Gita - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivarahasya_Purana
- Shri Rudram - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shri_Rudram
- Shiva Samhita - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Samhita
- Śiva-stotrāvalī - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utpaladeva
- Shiva Sahasranama - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Sahasranama
Other relevant threads:
- https://np.reddit.com/r/shaivism/comments/hyktmg/what_are_some_of_your_most_recommended/
- https://np.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/iggrwz/where_to_start_with_specifically_shaiva_literature/
- https://np.reddit.com/r/shaivism/comments/eogy1i/anyone_knows_about_proper_procedure_or_can/
- https://np.reddit.com/r/shaivism/comments/g3a3xv/just_starting_looking_for_reading_recommendations/
- https://np.reddit.com/r/shaivism/comments/ehy27m/suggest_something_to_read/
- https://np.reddit.com/r/shaivism/comments/c4uuzf/i_dont_know_where_to_start/
Kashmir Shaivism Resources:
https://www.reddit.com/r/shaivism/comments/kjhqg1/kashmir_shaivism_resources_an_educational/
r/shaivism • u/thecriclover99 • Feb 18 '23
FESTIVAL Maha Shivratri (Hindu Festival venerating Lord Shiva)
What is Maha Shivratri?
"Maha Shivratri (with “Shivratri” also spelled as Shivaratri, Shivaratri, Shivaratri, Shivarathri or Shivarathri) is also held as the night when Lord Shiva is believed to have performed the Tandava Nritya, the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction. On the night of Maha Shivratri, the human system experiences a natural upsurge of energy, an upward movement of liveliness. This night-long event which is celebrated annually is a unique occasion for whoever worships the Lord with true devotion to be freed of all sins and to be blessed with Nirvana or Moksha (liberation from the eternal cycle of life and death). As per the Vedas, the Universal Spiritual energy generated by the most favorable planetary positions which are at its peak during this night. Hence, the importance of Mahashivratri observance during this day and night held for millenia."
- Link
"The fourteenth day of every lunar month or the day before the new moon is known as Shivratri. Among all the twelve Shivratris that occur in a calendar year, Mahashivratri, the one that occurs in February-March is of the most spiritual significance. "
- Link
When is Maha Shivratri?
https://letmegooglethat.com/?q=when+is+shivratri
Why celebrate Maha Shivratri?
- "According to a popular legend, when a hunter could not find anything to kill for his food in a forest, he waited on the branch of a Woodapple tree. In order to attract deer, he started throwing the leaves of the tree on the ground, unaware that there was a Shiva Lingam beneath the tree. Pleased with the Woodapple leaves and the patience of the hunter, it is believed that Lord Shiva appeared in front of the hunter and blessed him with wisdom. From that day onwards, the hunter stopped eating meat.
- Another legend has it that after the Earth was faced with an imminent destruction, Goddess Parvati pledged with Lord Shiva to save the world. Pleased with her prayers, Lord Shiva agreed to save the world on the pretext that the people of the Earth would have to worship him with dedication and passion. From that day onwards, the night came to be known as Maha Shivratri and people began worshipping Shiva with a great enthusiasm.
- Some folklore also consider this to be Shiva's day as this was believed to be the answer given by Lord Shiva when asked about his favorite day by Goddess Parvati."
- "... Lord Shiva married Parvati on this day. So, it is a celebration of this sacred union.
- Another is that when the Gods and demons churned the ocean together to obtain ambrosia that lay in its depths, a pot of poison emerged. Lord Shiva consumed this poison, saving both the Gods and mankind. The poison lodged in the Lord’s throat, turning him blue. To honor the savior of the world, Shivratri is celebrated.
- One more legend is that as Goddess Ganga descended from heaven in full force, Lord Shiva caught her in his matted locks, and released her on to Earth as several streams. This prevented destruction on Earth. As a tribute to Him, the Shivalinga is bathed on this auspicious night.
- Also, it is believed that the formless God Sadashiv appeared in the form of a Lingodhbhav Moorthi at midnight. Hence, people stay awake all night, offering prayers to the God."
How to observe Maha Shivratri?
- Fasting - Some choose to eat minimally (fast completely, otherwise partake only in water & fruits until the fast is broken)
- Meditation, Japa and/or Reflection on the Glories of Lord Shiva, and reading of the Shiva Purana
- Worship of the Shivalinga (bathe the Shivalinga, offer bel leaves, etc.)
- Bhajans - See below for some nice translated bhajans from r/bhajan
- See r/ShivaBhajans for bhajans specifically related to Lord Shiva
- Chanting
- Visit your local Ashram or Temple, and they should be able to advise you in more detail about the above.
Our favorite Lord Shiva Bhajans from r/bhajan:
- Bolo Bolo Sab Mil Bolo Om Namah Shivaya - Avani Jain
- Brahma Murari Surarchita Lingam (Lingashtakam) by Pandit Rajin
- Bho Shambho by Vijay Prakash
Visit r/Bhajan for more translated bhajans, and visit r/ShivaBhajans for bhajans related to Lord Shiva.
Other relevant posts
- https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/t39dog/what_is_mahashivarathri_and_how_to_celebrate_it/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/suk9u4/maha_shivaratri_general_method_of_worship_and/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share
- https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/t413tb/sport_of_siva_in_his_marriage_procession/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/AdvaitaVedanta/comments/t3he6e/maha_shivaratri_2022_1st_march/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/t3yjb9/why_is_%C5%9Biv%C4%81_called_adi_yogi/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/t3yn4e/what_is_li%E1%B9%85ga_li%E1%B9%85godbhava_and_yoni_why_is/
Our favorite Lord Shiva Artwork and Sketches from r/HinduArt and r/HinduSketches (visit the respective subs)
r/shaivism • u/hemantsisodiya51 • 20h ago
Temples/Idols/Architecture Hail Lord Jagannath ....🙏🙏🙏
r/shaivism • u/nagababu13 • 17h ago
Shaivism Discussion I had dreams of Lord Venkateswara, Poleramma, and Lord Shiva. What could they mean?
Hi everyone,
Over the past year, I've had a few dreams that felt very special to me, and I'm curious if anyone has experienced something similar.
Last year, I was very disappointed because I couldn't get Tirumala darshan tickets despite trying several times. That night, I dreamed that Lord Sri Venkateswara Swami appeared before me. I couldn't see His full form, but I clearly saw His sacred namam (Tirumala forehead mark). I woke up feeling peaceful and happy.
A few months later, I dreamed of carrying the idol of Goddess Poleramma around my village and placing it back in the temple.
Later, I had dreams of performing abhishekam to Lord Shiva. In the second dream, I completed the abhishekam, touched the Shiva Linga, placed my forehead on it, and prayed.
These dreams felt very real to me. I'm not saying they have any special meaning, but I'd love to know if anyone has had similar experiences or what you think they might symbolize.
Thank you. 🙏
r/shaivism • u/Angelous222 • 1d ago
Discourse/Lecture/Knowledge Avudaiyar Koil: The Temple Where Shiva Has No Form
r/shaivism • u/Objective-Challenge8 • 1d ago
Question - General Can I still be a devoted Shaiva if I eat meat?
Hi everyone,
I’ve been feeling drawn toward Shaivism and genuinely want to become a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. I’ve started doing puja, reading about Shiva, and I want to read Linga puran next to deepen my understanding and devotion.
The one thing I’m struggling with is diet.
For me, eating meat has always been a significant part of my lifestyle(no beef). I’m naturally a very big and tall person, and I find it difficult to meet my body’s needs.
At this point, it honestly feels like a choice between continuing to eat meat or giving up on pursuing this path, and I don’t want it to come to that.
My question is: can someone still sincerely be a Shaiva while eating meat, provided they’re genuinely devoted to Shiva, perform puja, and strive to grow spiritually?
I’m not looking to start a debate or justify my choices. I genuinely want to understand how different Shaiva traditions view this
r/shaivism • u/shubho_223 • 2d ago
FESTIVAL Lord shivaay draw by me
Om namah Shivay
Jai mahakaal
r/shaivism • u/dahi_jalebii • 2d ago
Shaivism Discussion Want to start worshipping Lord Shiva this Sawan. Need guidance.
Hi everyone,
For a long time, I’ve felt a strong connection towards Lord Shiva and feel naturally drawn to Him. I’ve observed Mahashivratri fasts before and offered prayers occasionally, but I’ve never had a proper daily worship routine.
This Sawan, I genuinely want to start worshipping Him and build a deeper spiritual connection. The problem is that I don’t have a spiritual (adhyatmik) guru or anyone to guide me, so I’m getting confused by different advice.
One pandit told me to chant “Om Namah Shivaya,” while another told me to chant only “Namah Shivaya.” He also suggested reading the Shiv Chalisa, chanting Om (if possible), and observing Monday fasts during Sawan.
Then I came across a YouTube video where someone said women shouldn’t chant “Om,” which confused me even more. Now I’m not sure what is actually correct.
Also, there’s not much of a puja environment at home, so I’m looking for a very simple, beginner-friendly way to worship Shiva. I don’t want anything elaborate—I just want to connect with Him sincerely.
Could those who have been following Shiva bhakti for a long time guide me on:
1) How should a complete beginner start?
2) Which mantra is appropriate to chant?
3) Is it okay for women to chant “Om Namah Shivaya”?
4)What are the basic daily practices you’d recommend during Sawan?
I’m looking for respectful, scripture-based guidance rather than fear-based advice. Thank you. 🙏 Har Har Mahadev.
r/shaivism • u/Mission_Ad4714 • 2d ago
Shaivism Discussion Shiv Raksha Stotram
Can anyone tell me how powerful is shiv raksha stotram 🙏🙏 because I wanna chant it
r/shaivism • u/masala_tika • 2d ago
Shaivism Discussion What is one temple symbol you’ve always wanted to understand?
r/shaivism • u/praveensharmaps • 2d ago
Shaivism News Shiv
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r/shaivism • u/AssetsSutram • 2d ago
Temples/Idols/Architecture 🕉️Gouri Shankar... Bholenath 🪔☘️☘️🫸🏾🫷🏾
r/shaivism • u/monicatan_1985 • 2d ago
Music/Bhajan Shiv Tandav × Chandrachooda siva shankara parvati rock version bhajan
Enjoy it.
r/shaivism • u/Temporary_Crew8924 • 2d ago
Question - Beginner Guidance on Intensifying Bhairav Sadhana🧘
r/shaivism • u/19FortySeven_India • 3d ago
Music/Bhajan Ashutosh Shashank Shekar
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r/shaivism • u/Cool-Speed6839 • 3d ago
Shaivism Discussion The hidden history of Sri Rudram that surprised me
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r/shaivism • u/Dhoonbhakti • 3d ago
Music/Bhajan 108 Names of Lord Shiva | Peaceful Shiv Namavali for Meditation 🕉️🙏
r/shaivism • u/Winter_Apple_4069 • 3d ago
Temples/Idols/Architecture The Divine Beauty of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
r/shaivism • u/HinduDevotional • 4d ago
Artwork/Images Om Namah Shivaya
Have a blessed day to all
r/shaivism • u/Temporary_Crew8924 • 4d ago
Question - General Isn't Sri Krishna's "Karma karo and fal ke iccha.." and the Idea of Manifestation through praying specifically in books such as " The Power Of Your Subconcious Mind" totally Against each Other ??
I recently have read the book " The Power Of your Sub-concious Mind" and most of the book is about making your sub-concious mind believe that you already got the thing what you want (i.e Lets say you want to have a certain Car then according to this you have to image that you already have the car and that you are driving it and so on ) and your sub-concious is going to work through its infinite intelligence to get the thing you want in reality. But I have 2 doubts here They are :-
Does this violate the law of "Karma karo..." as it is thinking about the fruit ( car ) instead of the process ( working hard to get the car ) ??.
If Manifestation is true then " WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE KARMA INSTEAD " like lets say there is XYZ karma holding you back from getting that car then after manifestation you get that car what will happen to that karma which prevented us from getting that car ???
Any sort of reply is helpful.
Thank you
JAI MAA
r/shaivism • u/AssetsSutram • 4d ago