Lord Shiva, also known by other names such as Mahadeva, is one of the most important deities in the Hindu religion. He is thought to be the destroyer of the Universe. Interestingly, he is also known as the Lord of meditation and yoga. He is worshiped by people across the world, and is usually worshiped through an object called the Shiva Lingam. Lord Shiva’s devotees seek his blessings to obtain peace, spiritual growth, as well as wealth. Further, single women particularly worship him in the hopes of finding a husband like him one day. Accordingly, he is known for being a loving husband to his wife, Goddess Parvati. If you are new to Hindu tradition and want to know more about this revered God, there are various books that can help you learn all about him. In this article, we have listed the 5 best books on Lord Shiva.
The List of 5 Best Books on Lord Shiva
Below we have listed the 5 best Lord Shiva books. These books contain the tales and adventures of Lord Shiva, his teachings, as well as how you can live by these teachings. Further, they will help you learn more about the Hindu culture in general.
1. 7 Secrets of Shiva: The Hindu Trinity Series By Devdutt Pattanaik
Shiva, the ‘destroyer’ in the Hindu trinity (of gods), is depicted in a variety of contradictory ways. He is an ascetic who dresses in animal skin and has ashes smeared all over his body. In contrast to his wild nature, he is shown to have a family, including a beautiful wife and two children. There are numerous other representations of Shiva, the most notable of which are the Linga and the Nataraja. Devdutt Pattanaik, the author, introduces listeners to these various aspects and representations before attempting to interpret them. He discusses various anomalies and conflicts in beliefs, as well as the symbolism, rituals, and reasons for Hindu worship.
2. Shiva: Stories and Teachings from the Shiva Mahapurana By Vanamali
In this book, the author:
- Describes Shiva’s contradictory forms, such as destroyer and benefactor, and how his form changes depending on the devotee’s needs.
- Shows how Shiva’s teachings enable one to see through the illusions that are at the root of all grief and alienation in human life.
- Examines Shiva’s interactions with Durga, Shakti, Sati, and Parvati, as well as his sons Ganesha and Kartikeya
Further, the author reveals that Shiva’s teachings allow one to see through the illusions that are at the root of all grief and alienation in human life.
3. The Shiva Sutras By Ranjit Chaudhri
According to legend, Lord Shiva appeared in a dream to Sage Vasugupta and instructed him to go to a specific stone near a stream. When Sage Vasugupta went there the next day, the Stone turned over at his touch, and the Shiva sutras were inscribed on its face. According to Lord Shiva’s instructions, these sutras were to be revealed to those who were worthy of grace. The Shiva sutras guide us on how to set aside the illusion and experience ultimate reality by explaining our true nature and the illusion we are living in. The transformative message of the sutras has the power to end our suffering and open up a whole new world for us.
4. The incredible Qualities of Lord Shiva: Life lessons to learn from Shiva By Santosh Gairola
As we all know, Shiva is the greatest destroyer of darkness, making him the most appealing lord. However, there is so much more that humanity and ordinary people can learn from Shiva. Learning these qualities can make someone’s life blissful, full of inner joy, and all the world’s happiness. Accordingly, in this Ebook, the author discusses some of Shiva’s amazing qualities.
- Kindness
- Generosity
- Ideal husband and lover
- Darkness destroyer
- Vairagya (compassion)
- Greatest Giver
- Unconventional
5. Shiva: The Lord of Yoga By David Frawley
As the origin and ruling power over asana, prana, mantra, inner seeing, and meditation, Lord Shiva personifies all of the main practices of Yoga. The current book unfolds the Supreme Shiva’s presence, light, energy, and consciousness to take us beyond all death and duality. The author provides very practical information while also having a thorough understanding of the spiritual classics. Further, he presents a clear understanding of the nature of Lord Shiva and all the symbolisms associated with him.
This book has two parts: first, it’s the author’s direct experience of Shiva (the divine, God, etc.) described in words to the best of his ability. The second is an instruction manual on how to start where you are and begin down a path of self-realization.
You may also read: THE 5 BEST KUNDALINI AWAKENING BOOKS
Conclusion
This article lists the 5 best Lord Shiva books. These books contain a depth of knowledge about this great deity. Even if you are not a believer in the Hindu religion, you will benefit greatly from Lord Shiva’s teachings and his way of living.