Скачать или смотреть Why People Worship Shiva ? What Are the Forms of Shiva ? and Sadhana Guide !!

In Hinduism, Lord Shiva is often depicted in various forms or manifestations, each representing different aspects of his divine nature and cosmic responsibilities. The forms of Shiva are known as "Shiva rupam." While it's challenging to enumerate all the forms of Shiva, here are some of the prominent ones:

1. Pashupati Shiva: This form of Shiva is the lord of all living beings and is often depicted as a yogi with matted hair, a trident, and a third eye. Pashupati represents Shiva's role as the protector and lord of animals.

2. Dakshinamurthy: Lord Dakshinamurthy is the divine teacher who imparts knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. This form of Shiva is depicted as a youthful sage sitting under a banyan tree, usually with four disciples.

3. Nataraja Shiva: Lord Nataraja is the cosmic dancer and is often depicted in a dynamic dance pose within a ring of fire, symbolizing the continuous cycle of creation and destruction.

4. Ardhanarishvara: This form represents the androgynous union of Shiva and Parvati. Shiva's right half is male, and his left half is female, symbolizing the harmonious balance of masculine and feminine energies.

5. Bhairava: Bhairava is a fierce and wrathful form of Shiva. He is often depicted with a dog as his vahana (vehicle) and is associated with the destruction of ego and ignorance.

6. Rudra: Rudra is a fierce and stormy aspect of Shiva. He is associated with natural forces, such as thunder and lightning, and is often depicted with a bow and arrows.

7. Mrityunjaya Shiva: This form is invoked for protection from death and illness. Lord Mrityunjaya is often depicted with a snake around his neck and the crescent moon on his head.

8. Girish Shiva: Girish represents Shiva as the Lord of the Himalayas, and he is often depicted sitting in meditation on Mount Kailash.

9. Bholenath: This form of Shiva is known for his simplicity and innocence. He is often depicted as a simple, humble ascetic with ash smeared on his body.

These are just a few of the many forms and aspects of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. Shiva's multifaceted nature reflects the diversity and depth of his symbolism, representing the various roles he plays in the cosmos and the spiritual journeys of his devotees.