Shaivism centers around Shiva, but it has many sub-traditions whose theological beliefs and practices vary significantly. They range from dualistic devotional theism to monistic meditative discovery of Shiva within oneself. Within each of these theologies, there are two sub-groups.

Shaivism, organized worship of the Indian god Shiva and, with Vaishnavism and Shaktism, one of the three principal forms of modern Hinduism. Shaivism includes such diverse movements as the highly philosophical Shaiva-siddhanta, the socially distinctive Lingayat, ascetics such as the dashnami sannyasins, and innumerable folk variants.

Shaivism is one of the major traditions within Hinduism that reveres Shiva as the Supreme Being. The followers of Shaivism are called “Shaivites” or “Saivites”. It is one of the largest sects that believe Shiva, worshipped as a creator and destroyer of worlds, is the supreme god over all.

Jan 1, 2017 · Shaivism is the branch of Hinduism that worships Shiva as the supreme deity. It is one of the major branches of Hinduism. The followers of Shaivism are called Shaivas.

Shaivism is a complex body of South Asian traditions centered on the worship of the Hindu male deity Shiva, or Śiva (Sanskrit: "Auspicious One").

Shaivism was probably the first antithetical movement against Vedic casteism, long before the emergence of Buddhism as a formidable religion. What we know about Shiva is much less than what we do not know.

Apr 4, 2025 · In the minds of the ancient Hindus, Shiva was the divine representative of the uncultivated, dangerous, and unpredictable aspects of nature. Shiva’s character lent itself to being split into partial manifestations—each said to represent only an aspect of him—as well as to assimilating powers from other deities.

Dec 21, 2023 · What Does Shaivism Mean? Within Hinduism, Shaivism is one the largest sects that believe Shiva — worshiped as a creator and destroyer of worlds — is the supreme god over all.

Shaivism is the second largest religious community in cotemporary India. It has several distinct and important branches, and is commonly associated with asceticism. Lord Shiva himself is often depicted as a yogi sitting in meditation in the Himalayas.

Jan 28, 2025 · Shaivism, one of the principal traditions within Hinduism, venerates Lord Shiva as the Supreme Being. This ancient path encompasses a rich tapestry of symbols, each laden with profound meaning and spiritual significance.