[ Back Ground: In the Anushasika Parva of the Famed Epic of Maha Bharata, Lord Krishna quotes the Shiva Sahasra Naama Stotra to Yudhishthara as he learnt from Sage Upamanyu; the Sage learnt the Sahasranama from what he was taught through generations originally scripted by Brahma Putra Tandi who attained Ganapathya Status as a result. This Version of Shiva Sahasra Naama was originally scripted in The Maha Linga Purana vide ‘Rudra Sahasra naama kathana naama Panchashashthi-Adhyaya’ or in the Fifty Six Chapter.
This very Purana also provided another version of Shiva Sahasra Naama in ‘Jalandhara Vadhonaama Sapta navatitamodhyaaya’ or the Seventy Ninth Chapter when Devas approached Bhagavan Vishnu to accomplish Sudarshana Chakra to utilise it as and when Danavas dominated from time to time and in turn Vishnu performed ‘Sahasraarchanaabhisheka’ to Maha Deva by reciting Thousand Names along with a Lotus flower per Naama; Maha Deva desired to test Bhagavan Vishnu and concealed the thousandth flower and the latter was unnerved and plucked one of his own eyes to complete the Worship!]
ANUSHAASIKA PARVA OF MAHA BHARATA
In the context of Yudhishtara requesting Bhishma Pitamaha to enlighten him with the Illustrious Names of Maha Deva, the latter directed him to Lord Krishna. Govinda in turn requested Sage Upamanyu and the Sage replied to Krishna as follows:
‘Brahma proktou Rishi proktou Veda Vedanga Sambhava, Sarva Lokeshu Vikhyatam Stutyam stoshyaami naamabhi/ Mahadbhirviditai Satyai Siddhi Sarva Sadhakai, Rishina Tandinaa bhaktya kritai Vedakritaatmana/ Na shakyam vistarat krutsnam vaktum Sarvasya kenachit, Yuktenaapi vibhutinaamapi varsha shatairapi/ Yasdhirmadhyamanantam cha Surairapi na gamyahey, Kastasya shaktuyadwaktam Gunaan Karsnyena Madhava/ Kintu Devasya Mahata samkshiptaartha padaksharam, Shaktitascharitam vakshye prasadatsya Dheemata/ Apraapyatu thatho anugnaam na sakyastotumeeshwara, Yadaa tennabhyanugnaat stuto vai sa tadaa maya/ Anaadi nidanasyaaham Jagadyonir Mahatmana, Naamnaam kanchit samudhesyam vakshmya vakta yonina/ Varadasya Varenyasya Vishvarupasya Dheemata, Shrunu naamnaam chayam Krishna Yaduktam Padma yonina/ Dasha naama sahasraani yaanyaaha Prapitaamaha, Taani nirmadhya Maanasa dhadhno drutamivodhbudham/ Gire saaram yadhaa Hema pushpasaaram yadhaa madhu,Ghitasaaram yathaa mandasta dhaitat saara samudhrutam/ Sarva paapamidam Chaturveda samanvitam, Prayatnenadhi gantavyam dharyancha Prayataatmana/ Sarva Bhutaataatma Bhutasya Harasyamita Tejasa, Ashtottara Sahasram tu naamnaam Sarvasya mey Shrunu/ Yacchutwa manuja Vyaghra sarvaan kaamaan vapsyati’ /
( I pray to Mahadeva by using his names that have been acclaimed by Brahma and several Sages as they have emerged from Veda Vedangas and are famed far and wide in the Worlds. These magnificent Names of Shiva are the facilitators of any kind of tasks as they are imbued with great powers; Maharshi Tandi whose heart is saturated with Vedas pronounced these Sacred Names foremost. Indeed it is well nigh impossible to narrate the Names fully even after applying one’s deepest thoughts for hundreds of years. Madhava! Who could possibly delineate Maha Devas’s glorious names and qualities in full since Devas could never discover either His head or foot – His Beginning or End! All the same, I shall in my limited capability would like to attempt the Names by His benevolence and grace. My attempt is to collect a few Name as Maha Deva would indeed be the Only One who is aware of the Origin of the Universe. Do please collect these names as revealed by Brahma as he only is the emblem of knowledge. These Thousand Names had emerged as a result of churning curd to secure butter, or butter is obtained from gheee, or gold is dug up from deep mines or honey is sucked out of flowers. These splendid Names of Shiva would destroy even heinous sins and are akin to the Essence of Vedas; however these are easy to memorise and seemingly appreciate the outer meaning and context. Be now brace up yourself to hear from me the Thousand Names of Parama Shiva who indeed is aptly called Sarva Hara or the One who would take-away and charm as also fulfill all the desires of his devotees!)
Nyasa:
Asya Shiva Sahasranaama Stotra Maha Mantrasya Upamanyu Rishi Anushtup Chhanda Shri Samba Sada Shivo Devata; Sthira Sthaanur iti Beejam, Shrimaan Shri Vardhano Jahah iti Shaktih, Devatapati iti keelakam, Shri Samba Sadaa Shiva Prasada Sidhyarthey Japey Viniyogah
Dhyana:
Shantam Padmasanastam Shashidhara makutam Pancha Vaktram Trinetram, Shulam Vajramcha Khadgam Parashu mabhayadam Dakshina bhaagey vahantam/ Naagam Paasham Ghantam Pralaya hutaavahamsankusham Vaama bhagey, Naanaalankaara yuktam Sphatikamani niham Parvateesham Namaami/ ( My salutations to Parvateesha the ever tranquil One as seated on a Lotus wearing half Moon on his Crown with Five Faces and Three Eyes carrying a Shula, Vajra, Khadga, Parashu and Abhaya or Safety Sign on his right side; Naaga Pasha or a curled serpent, Ghanta or a Huge Bell, Ankusha and Infernal Flames on his left side like a translucent crystal!)
Puja:
‘Lam’ Prithivi Tatwatmaney Gandham Dharayami; ‘Ham’ Akasha Tatwatmaney Pushpai Pujayami; ‘Yam’ Vayu Tatwatmaney Dhupamaaghraapayaami; ‘Ram’Agneyyaatmaney Deepam Darshayaami; ‘Vam’ Amrita Tatweatmaney Amrita Naivedyam Nivedayami; ‘Sam’ Sampurnam Samarpayami’.
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SHIVA SAHASRANAMA STOTRA
Om Sthirah Sthaanuh Prabhur Bheemah Pravaro Varado Varah, Sarvatmaa Sarva Vikhyaatah Sarvah Sarvakaro Bhavah, Jati Charmi Shikhandi cha Sarva Bhavanah/ Harascha Hiranyakshascha Sarva Bhuta harah Prabhuh, Pravritthischa Nivrittischa Niyata Shasvato Dhruvah/ Shmashaana Vaasi Bhagavankhacharo Gochanordanah, Abhivadyo Mahakarma Tapaswi Bhutabhanah/ Unmatthaveshah Pracchannah Sarva Loka Prajapatih, Maha Rupo Maha Kaayo Vrisharupo Maha Yashah/ Lokapalontarhitatmaa Prasado Nilalohitah, Pavitramcha Mahaamschaiva Niyamo Niyamaashritah, Sarva Karmaa Swayambhuta Aadiradikaro Nidhih/ Sahasraaksho Vishaalaakshah Somo Nakshatra Saadhakah, Chandra Suryah Shanih Keturgraho Grahapatirvarah/ Aadyantalayaakartaacha Mriga Baanaarpanonaghah, Maha Tapaa Deerghatapaa Adeeno Deena Sadhakah/ Samvatsara Karo Mantrah Pramaanam Paramamtapah, Yogi Yojyo Mahaa Beejo Maha Retaa Maha Balah/ Suvarnaretaah Sarvagjnah Subeejo Beeja Vahanah, Dashabaahustva nimisho Neelakanthah Umaapatih/ (1-20)
Om- Sthirah or ‘Tishhateeti Sthirah’ or Stationary and Permanent; Sthaanavey or the Remote Monitoring Hinge of the Creation-‘Samsara Mandapasyaasya Mula Stambhaaya Shambhavey’; Prabhavey or Sarva Swami or the Over Lord of the Universe; Bheemah or the Source of Terror to Evil Forces; Pravaro or Sreshtha or the Best of All Beings; Varado or the Provider of Boons; Varah or the Boon Itself or what all built-in advantages that Maha Deva has provided to all the Beings as per the saying of –God! Count our Blessings; Sarvaatma or the One who spreads himself among each and every Being in their respective Consciences; Sarva Vikhyatah or Highly Renowned all over the Universe; Sarvah or Vishwa Rupa or the Totality; Sarvakaro or the One who is the Supreme Performer; Bhavah or the Jagat Kaarana Bhuta or the Prime Sourcer; Jatiney or the One popular as having Jatajuta or matted and coarse hair; Charminey or the Wearer of Tiger/Elephant Skin; Shikhandiney or the One sporting Peacock feathers on His matted hair especially popular as a Kirata or hunter who chased the same animal hunted by Arjuna in a forest the incident of which is well-known in Maha Bharata; Sarvangah or His Physical Appearance is the representaion of the whole World; Sarvabhavanah or the One who has the knowledge of the feelings of every Being in the Creation; Harascha or the Great Destroyer of all Beings at Pralaya or alternatively the obliteration of Sins : ‘Harati Paatakajaaam Smritimaatrenaa -panayateeti Harih’; Harinaakshacha or He has the attractive and liquid eyes of a deer; Sarva Bhuta Harah Prabhuh or the devastator of all the Beings at the Universal Extermination; Pravrtitischa or He who is recognised by Karma Marga or by the Practice of Deeds of Virtue; Nivrittischa or He is realised by the Nivritti Marga or Path of Vairagya and the Other-Worldliness; Niyatah or the Highest Regulator of the Worlds; Shaswata or the Eternal and Everlasting; Dhruvah or the characterisation of Constancy and Stability; Smashanavaasi or the Resider of Burial Places as the Regulator of deaths and rebirths; Bhagavan or the Supreme Energy being the Source of ‘Chaturvidha Phalas’ viz. Dharma-Artha- Kaama- Moksha; Khacharah or the One moving about on the Skies-altervatively stated He who is search-worthy on the Hridayaakasha or the Mental Sky; Gocharah or the One realisable by senses or visions; Ardanah or the One who traps and punishes of the Vicious; Abhivadyah or the One who is saluted and worshipped always; Maha Karma or the One Symbol of Superior Actions; Tapaswi or the Exemplary Meditator for the Benefit of all the Beings; Bhuta bhavana /[dharana] or the One who creates / sustains the Pancha Bhutas of ‘Prithivya-apas-tejo-vaayu-raakaashaas’ viz. Earth-Water-Agni-Air-Sky; *Unmattaveshah or the One who feigned Madness to test the genuineness of the Sages at the Daruka Vana-
[*A group of Sages who were great adept in ‘Karmakanada’ by way of daily homas and practice of abstinences of food and physical pleasures was visited in the Daruka Vana by Parameshwara as a semi lunatic almost without clothes; this attracted the amorous attention of the family women and unmarried girls; the Rishis were annoyed at the provocative presence of the lunatic and cursed him to drop his manhood and that was the Origin of Shiva Linga!];
Pracchannah or He who conceals himself in varied forms; Sarva lokaya or of the Swarupa of the Three Lokas; Prajapatih or the Highest Authority of the Public in the Lokas; Maha Rupah or of the Magnificent and Gigantic Form; Maha Kayah or of the Huge Physique; Vrisha Rupah or of the Form of a Bull viz. Nandeeshwara; Maha Yashah or the Epitome of Reputation; Mahatma or of the Supreme Soul; Sarva Bhutatma or the Undercurrent Soul of all the Beings in Srishti; Vishwa Rupa or of the Appearance of the Universe in totality; Maha Hanuh or of strong and oversized jay bones like that in the Varaha Incarnation of Vishnu; Lokapaala or the Top Administrator of Three Lokas; Antarhitatma or of the Illustrious features like virtue, tranquility and equanimity; Prasadah of the Form of Mercy and Fulfillment; Nilalohitah or of Blue and Red complexions representing Prakriti or Maya and Purusha or Maha Deva; Pavitram cha or of Sanctity and Purity; Mahamschaiva or of the Outstanding and Awesome; Niyamah or the Essence of Discipline and Orderliness; Niyamaashritah or the One who encourages those observing regulations; Sarva karmaney or the Representation of all kinds of Acrivities; Swayambhuta or Self-Realised or Manifested by the Self; Adi or the Foremost whose Origin is unknown; Aadikara or the One who created Brahma the the First Creation; Nidhih or the Original Fund of Treasure; Sahasraaksha or of Thousands of Eye or the Omni-Scient; Visaalaksha or of the World-wide Vision; Somah or of the Form of Parvati characterising Prakri; Nakshatra sadhakah or the Creator of the Star World; Chandra or the Sign of Peacefulness and Lustor; Surya or of the Swarupa of Surya Deva; Shani or Saturn; Ketu; Graho or the rest of the Planets; Graha Pati or Parama Shiva the Head of the Grahas; Varah or the Greatest Boon to the Universe as He created such splendid facitities for Existence; Adantalaya kartaacha or the One who is the Creator and Terminaor of the Universe; Mrigapraanaarpanah or He who was responsible for releasing an arrow against the Deer despatched by the Munis in Daruka Forest as Maha Deva sought to test the devotion of the Munis; Anaghah or the Symbol of Sinlessness; Maha Tapah or He who performed unprecedented meditaion ever; Deergha Tapa or the One who achieved the record-time Tapasya ever ie. Ajaraamara twa defying the definition of Time Measurement; Adeenah or he pretends to be helpless but actually is the Unique Provider of relief himself; Deena Sadhakah He is the Great Source of Relief and Help to the Needy Himself; Samvatsara Karo or the One who regulates the Cycle of Years or of KalaMaana or the Calculations of Time on a repetitive basis; Mantrah or of the Swarupa of Omkara and other Mantras; Pramanaya or of the Supreme Standard which could never be surpassed by Devas, Maharshis and Maha Yogis alike; Paramam Tapah or the Unpararalleled and Unprecedented ‘Tapas’; Yogi or the One who is aware of the Perfect Equilibrium of Falsehood and Realiy or Maya and Paramatma; Yojyo or the practice of such achievement of Yoga; Maha Beejo or Shiva is the Extraordinary Gemirating Source of the Universe; Maha Reta or ‘Mahanmahatwam Reto yasya sa Maha Retaa’ or the Most Potent Sperm that creates the Universe; Maha Balalah or the Epitome of Power and Strength; Suvarna Reta or of the of Golden Seeds enabling the Mammoth Task of Creation; Sarvagjnah or the All- Knowing; Subeejo or of the Seeds that are eternally effective and never faltering; Beeja Vahanah or the Permanent Carrier of Seeds from Nature to Fruition; Dasabahu ie. ‘Dasha Baahu dasha Bhujaah or of Ten Hands and Shoulders representing two of his own and of Eight Directions; Animishaaya or Nimesha rahita or the One who is unaffeted by time calculations of minutes or blinks of his eyes; Neelakanthaaya or the Blue Throated Deva as He devoured and preserved the ‘Halaahala Visha’ or the blue poisonous flames to ensure the safety of the Worlds within his belly and outside it as the conflagrations appeared at the time of churning the Ocean of Milk by Deva Danavas to secure Amrita; Umapatih or the Swami of Pranava Swarupini Shakti called Uma);
Vishwarupa Swayam Shershtho Bala Veero Balaagrani, Ganakartaa Ganapatir Digvaasaah Kaama –yevacha/ Mantravit Paramomantrah Sarva Bhaava karo Harah, Kamandaludharo Dhanvi Bana hastah Kapalavaan/ Ashanih Shataghni Khadgi Pattasi chaayudhee Mahan, Sruvahastah Surupascha Tejo Tejaskaro Nidhih/ Ushnisheecha Suvaktrascha Udagro Vinatastathaa, Deerghascha Harikeshjaschah Suteerthah Krishna yevacha/ Srugaala rupah Siddhaartho Mridah Sarva Shumhamkarah, Ajascha Bahurupascha Gangaadhaari Kapardyapi/ Urthwaretaa Urthwa Linga Urthwashaayi Nabhastalah, Trijatah Cheeravaasaascha Rudrah Senapatih Vibhuh/ Naktamcharohascharascha Tigmanyuh Suvarchasah, Gajahaa Daityahaa Kaalo Loka Dhataa Gunaakarah/ Simha Shardula Rupascha Vyaghra Charmaambaraavritah, Kaala Yogi Mahanathah Sarva Kaamah Chatushpathah/ Nishaacharah Pretachaari Bhutachaari Maheshwarah, Bahu Bhuto Bahudharah Swarbhaanuramitogatih/ Nrityapriyo Nityanarto Nartakah Sarva laasasah, Maa Ghora Tapaa Pasho Nityo Giricharo Niraalayah/ (21-30)
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Vishwa Rupa or Maha Deva is of the Profile of the Universe in Totality; Swayam Shershthah or the Self Manifested Avatara of Magnificence not possible of proof; Bala Veerah or the Personification of Strength and Courage; Balaagrani or of the Ultimate Power; Ganakarta or the Creator of Ganaas to serve Him for His own needs; Ganapati or the High Commander of the Chief of Ganas viz. Vinayaka; Digvaasah or the One existent in all the Ten Directions of North-North East-East-South East-South-South West-West-North West-Skyward-and Downward; Kaamya or Shiva the Highly Desirable; Mantravid or the One with the Great Knowledge of of Mantras; Paramo Mantrah or the Essence of Mantras Himself; Sarvabhava karah or the Eternal Spring of sensations and feelings; Harah or He who eradicates the fears and difficulties of devotees instantly is Hara: ‘Harati smruti maatrena Bhakta -anishtam naashayateeti Harah’; Kamandaludharah or the Carrier of a Sacred Water Vessel; Dhanvi or the One carries a Bow ready to punish the Evil; Baana hastah or the One wth arrows in his hands: ‘Baano Vishnu Rupah Hastey yasya sa Baana hastah’; Kapaalavan or Shiva the carrier of Brahma Kapaala since he sliced off the Fifth Head of Brahma the Pancha Mukha originally due to the indiscretion of Brahma ravishing his daughter Devi Saraswati and had to experience of sin of Brahma Hatya till he atoned and finally got rid of the Kapaala; Ashanih-Shataghni-Khadgi-Pattasichaayudhi or or Maha Deva carries various weapons of destruction viz.the Vajrayudha, Shataghni or the Shakti Missile-Sword-Pattisi or hand knife and such other powerful armaments; Sruvahasta or Shiva carries a ladle to enable to perform yagnas and homas; Surupascha Shiva is a symbol of physical attraction and Form; Tejah or the Pictogram of Radiance and Illumination; Tajaskaro nidhih or the Great deposit of Luminosity and its Provider; Ushneeshicha or the One with an Ornamental head-cap; Suvaktrascha or of Handsome and Attractive Visage; Udagrah or Utkrushtah or Magnificent Swarupa; Vinata or the Respectful and Dutiful; Deerghascha or the Tallest; Harikeshascha or of the mixed hair-form of Vishnu ie of black and grey; Suteerthah or of the Sacred Tirthas like Pushkara; Krishnah or of the Avatara of Vishnu who avowed to say ‘Paritraanaaya Sadhunaam Vinashaayacha Dushkruaam Sambhavaami Yuge Yugey’or He affirmed that from time to time would be manifested recurrently to protect the Virtuous and destroy the Vicious; Srigala Rupa or of the Jambukeshwara Swarupa who assumed the Form of a Jackal and killed Jambukaasura; Siddhartha or the Siddha Yogi who has Siddhis or Occult Powers of concealed nature; Mundaaya or of the ‘Parivrajaka Swarupa’ or of the Head Shaven Monk; Sarva Shubhamkara or of One who bestows all happy and auspicious bodings; Ajascha or the Unborn and Self-Manifested; Bahurupashcha or of Innumerable Forms; Gangaadhari or the One who carries Devi Ganga on his head; Kapardyapi or the One with Jataa-Juta or coarse and curled hair; Urthwa reta or the One practising ‘Avipluta Brahmacharya’or the Conqueror of Physical Passion; Uthva Linga or the Sky-ward Visionary Linga Swarupa; Urthwa shaayi or the One lying with upward looks; Nabhasthalah or the Entire Sky is His resting Place; Trijata or of Three pleated hair style head; Cheeravaasaascha or the One who wears tree skins; *Rudrah or Shiva who as an infant manifested by Brahma cried because of the awareness of the cycle of Life’s travails of Birth-Age-Illness- Difficulties-Death etc.: *‘ Rodayateeti Rujjanmamaranaadi Dhukham tadraavayati Dureekaroti Rudraha’; Senapatih or of the Swarupa of Skanda Kumara the Commander-in- Chief of the Army of Devatas; Vibhuh or the One who assumes a variety of Swarupas; *Naktamcharah or the Practiotioner of Nakta Vrata of One Meal a day for specified number of days-
[* Garuda Purana illustrates different types of Austerities such as Chandrayana vrata for a month of consuming morsels of food in the nights during the Shukla Paksha (Bright Moon) by increasing the intake of the morsels each day and decreasing a morsel less by each day in the Krishna Paksha or Moon on the Decline; Maha Santapana Vrata or consumption of Pancha Gavyas or the Cow products of Milk-Curd-Ghee-Cow Urine-and Cow dung, Kushodaka or Kusha grass dipped in Kusha grass and complete fast on the final day of a week with the option of consuming the mixture of the Pancha gavyas or each of the constituents of the same that too in limited units a day; Parna Kriccha Vrtata or consuming the water soaked in the leaves of Palasha-Gulara-Kamala-Bael trees on five successive days in a week; Tapta Kriccha Vrata of consuming hot milk in first day, ghee on second day, lukewarm water on third day and complete fast on fourth day; Paada Kriccha Vrata for four days viz. Ekabhukta Vrata being a noon meal a day, Nakta Vrata being one meal a night and total fast on the fourth day; Prajapatya Kriccha Vrata for a cycle of three such Nakta Vratas; Ati Kriccha Vraa is as Prajapatya Vrata of handful food; and Kricchaa Ati Kriccha Vrata observing fast for twenty one days living only on milk and water.Like wise there are Shiva ratri Vrata of fasting on the Chaturdashi Day and Night of Phalguna Month along with Prahara (for three hours) Bilwaabhisheka-Puja-Jagarana-Havana-Japa-Brahmana Bhojana on the following day; Ekadasha Upavasa on every Eleventh day; Akhanda Dwadashi Vrata commencing on Shuddha Margaseersha Dwadashi for all such Dwadashis for a year and so on];
Aharyascha or Shiva in the Form of Devas who are active in day time; Tigmamanyu or Rudra Swarupa possessive of sharp indignation; Suvarchasah or The Fund of Brilliance and Glow; Gajaha or the Destroyer of Gajasura; Daityah or the Slayer of Countless Daityas; Kaala or of the Swarupa of Yama Raja the Terminator of Life; Lokadhaatrey or the One who sustains the Chaturdasha / Fourteen Bhuvanas or Three Lokas; Gunaakarah or the One who creates the Satwika-Raajasika-Tamasika Gunas or Features; Simha Shardula Rupascha or of the Forms of Lions and Tigers repressentative of ferociousness and cruelty; Vyaghra Charmambaraavritah or the One dressed up in the skins of Tiger; Kaala Yogi or the Regulator of Eternal Kaala Maana; Maha Naada or of the Symbol of Huge Sounds of Thunders, Earth Quakes , Oceans and Pralayas; Sarva Kaama or the Source of Desires and of their Fulfillment; Chatushpathah or the Four Types of Aspirations viz. Dharma-Artha-Kaama-Mokshaas; Nishaacharah or Maha Deva is like the Beings that are active in the nights and darkness; Pretachari or He like Devi Chamundi is desirous of the rides of corpses: ‘Chamunda Shava Vahana’; Bhutachari or the One who is fond of moving about along with Bhuta-Piscachas or the frightening extra-terrestrial species; Maheshwara or the Supreme Deity; Bahu Bhuto or of innumerable manifestations; Bahu -dharah or the One who is the hold of countless Beings; Swarbhanu or the Self-Manifested Sun God; Amitah or of the immesurable magnitude of the Universe; Gatih or the Ultimate Destination; Nritya Priyo or ‘Nrityam Nartanam Tandava Rupam Priyam’ or Shiva is of the Passion of Dance in all Forms including Tandava; Nitya Narto or the Eternal Practitioner of Dance; Nartaka or the Emblem of Dance in varied Forms; Sarva Laalasah or the Charm of all Beings and he is the Fascination for all too; Maha ghora or Maha Pralaya Karaka or the Final devastator of the Creation; Maha Tapah or the Personification of Tapas or Deep Meditation; Pashah or the indescribable noose of Maha Maya ensnaring the Universe; Nityah or the Everlasting; Giricharo or the One who moves about on Mountains; Nabhah or He is like the Omni-Present; Niralayah or Totally Detached);
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Sahasra Hasto Vijayo Vyavasaayo hyatinditah, Amarshanomarshanaatmaa Yagjnah Kamanashakah/ Dakshayaagaapahaari cha Susaho Madhyamastathaa, Tejopahaari Balahaa muditorajito Varah/ Gambhira ghosho Gambhiro Gambhira Balavaahanah, Nyagrodharupo nyagrrodho Vriksha Karna Shitirvibhuh/ Suteekshnadashanaschaiva Maha Kayo Mahaananah, Vishwakseno Harir Yagjnassamyugaa peeda vaahanah/ Teekshna taapascha Haryashvah Sahaayah Karma Kaalavi, Vishnu Prasaadito Yagjnassamudro Badabaamukhah/ Hutaashana sahaayascha Prashantaatmaa Hutaashanah, Ugratejaa Mahaa Tejaa janyo Vijayakaalavit/Jyotishaamayanam Siddhih Sarva Vigraha evacha, Shikhi Mundi Jati Jwaali Murtijo Murdhago Bali/ Vainavaney Panavi Taali Kaala Katam- katah, Nakshatra Vigrahmatirguna Buddhirnayogamah/ PrajapatirVishwa Baahurvibhagah Saarvato mukhah, Vimochanah Susarano Hiranya Kavachodbhavah/ Meghajo Balachaari cha Mahichaari Stutastathaa, Sarva Turya Vinodicha Sarva Vyaapya Parigrahah/ (31-40)
Sahasra hastaaya or of Countless hands;Vijaya or the Signage of Victory; Vyavasaayah or the characterisation of Agriculture and Industriousness or hard work; Aninditah or Irreproachable or Sarva Dosha Rahita/ Faultless; Amarshanah or Sinless or the Symbol of Blemishlessness; Marshanatma or the Most Virtuous; Yagjnah or Yagjna Swarupa; Kama naashakah or the decimator of Kama Deva Manmatha who sought to incite Shiva’s passion for Parvati and got burnt off by Rudra’s third Eye; Daksha Yaagapahari or the Devastator of Daksha Yagjna where Devi Sati performed Self-Immolation in the Homa Kunda as she was unable to contain her father Daksha’s criticism of Maha Deva; Susaha or the Symbol of Tolerance and Broad-Mindedness; Madhyamasta or the neutral and impartial; Tejopahari or the One who minimises the strengh and brightness of the Opponents or the Vicious; Balah or the Subduer of the Self-Opinionated; Mudito or the Ever Blissful; Ajito or the Invincible; Varah or the Boon Bestower; Gambhiraghosho or The One like the reverberating sound and speech; Gambhiro of the Personification of Profoundness; Gambhira bala Vahana or the Powerful Carrier who lifts up those seeking the Place of Eternity and Perfection / Moksha; Nyagrodha Rupa or ‘Samsara Vrikshastham Rupayati Utpaadayateeti Nyagrodhah’ or of the Form of the creator and preserver of the Samsara Tree; Nygrodhaaya or of the Form of Vata (Banyan Tree) or Dakshina Murti; Vriksha Karna Stitih or the One who manifests as the Incarnation of Bala Shiva atop the Banyan Tree at the Pralaya Kaala; Vibhuh or Maha Deva Himself in the Most Radiant Form; Suteekshna Dashanaschaiva or Shiva of Vishnu’s Narasimha Incarnation whose teeth are sharp and strong; Maha Kayo or Shiva or of Shiva of Vishnu’s Vamanaavtara whose expanded physique filled up the Three Lokas; Mahaananah or Shiva in an Alternate Form of Vishnu as Varaha Swarupa displayed a huge face; Vishvakseno or the Great Warrior who scatters huge army, popularly considered as Lord Ganesha the ‘Gana Nayaka’; Harah or the Destroyer of Sins and Evils; Yagjnah or the Essence of Yagjnas; Samyuga Peeda Vahanah or the Great Rider and Flagship of the Nandi the Bull; Teekshna tapascha or the One with the severe Form of Fiery Flames; Haryashwa or of the Rider of Green Horses; Sahayah or the One who helps and guides one and all; Karmakaalavid or He who has the Knowledge of Destiny for all the Beings; Vishnavey or of the Alternate Manifestation of Vishnu Bhagavan; Prasaditaya or the One who fulfills the wishes of all; Yagjna or of the Swarupa of the Sacrifices of which Maha Deva is identified with-‘ Yagjno Deva Pujaa rupah’; Samudra or Shiva is deep, rough, wavy and profound; Badabamukhaaya or of the Form of Flames arising from of the mineral and sulphurious deposits in the Oceans; Hutaashana Sahaya or ‘Hutaashanasya Vahneyh sahaayo Vayu Rupah’ or the Form of wild wind that escalates flames; Prashaantaatma or of Placid Innerself; Hutashanah or of Agni Swarupa; Ugra Teja or of Fierce Fire; Maha Teja or of the Profile of Surya Deva the embodiment of Radiance; Janyo or of the expression of Victory; Vijayakalavid or the One who is fully aware of the time of Victory; Jyotishaamayanaya or the embodiment of Jyotisha Vidya or the Knowledge of the Past- Present and Future; Siddhih or ‘Ipsita Phala Prapti’ or the Accomplishment of one’s desire; Sarva Vigraha or the Manifestation of Endless Swarupas of the Single Paramatma; Shikhi or of abundantly grown hair; Mundi or of Clean Shaven Swarupa; Jati or of curled and matted hair; Jwali of the Outline of Conflagrations; Murtijah or of Innumerable Swarupas; Murdhajah or of the distinct Form of Head ie with noticeable hair style, Ganga, Half Moon, snake ear rings, blue throat and so on; Bali or the Representation of Strength and Courage or alternatively stated Bali the Illustrious Chakravarti or Soveriegn of the Sapta Patalas who donated Three Lokas to Vamana Deva the Avatara of Bhagavan Vishnu; Vainavaney or Shiva the Instrumental Musician with a Flute; Panavi or hand drum; Thaaliney or of Taala Vaadya or metallic cymbols; Kaalaaya or Mrityu rupa; Katamkataya or ‘Katam Gajananamastakam’of the Sliced head of Ganesha as replaced by the head of a baby Elephant; Nakshatravigraha matih or Shiva has the intellectual acumen that shines like the luminous Stars on the Sky; Guna buddhi or of the essence of Trigunas or of Satwika-Rajasa-Tamasika characteristics; Layo gamah or Shiva tends to lead all the Beings on the Path of Final Destruction; Prajapatih or the Supreme of humanity; Vishwa bahu or His reach is extensive till the corners of the Universe; Vibhaagyah or He is the Undivided / Composite Manifestation ie. Adwaita Paramatma; Sarvatomukhah or the One who faces one and all; Vimochana or the Provider of Moksha; Susharanaaya or the One who is an excellent refuge point or shelter ; Hiranya kavachodbhaba or the One manifested along with Golden Kavacha or Body Protector; Meghaja or the Clouds created by him; Balachari or the One moving about with unusual strength; Mahichari or the Traveller all over the Universe; Stutastatha or the One who is commended and prayed to intensely; Sarva turya ninadi or He excels in the appreciation of all types of instrumental music; Sarva vyaapya parigraha or He readily merges with even the tiniest places and Beings);
Vyalarupo Guhaavaasi Grahamaali tarangavit, Tridashah Kaalakrudkarma Sarva bandha vimochanah/ Bandhanastwa Surendrendraanaam yudhi Shatru Vinaashanah , Saankhyaprasado Durvaasaah Sarva Saadhu nishevitah/ Paskandano Vibhajnohyatulyo Yagjna bhagavit, Sarva vaasah Sarvachaari Durvaasaa Vaasavomarah/ Haimo Hemakaro Yagjnah Sarvadhaari Dharottamah, Lohitaaksho Mahaakshascha Vijayaaksho Visharadah/ Samgraho Nigrah Kartaa Sarpa Cheera Nivasanah, Mukhyomukyascha Dehascha kaahalih Sarva Kaamadah/ Sarva Kaala Prasaadascha Subalo Bala Rupa bhrut, Sarva Kaama pradaschaiva Sarvadah Sarvato Mukhah/ Aakaasha nirvirupascha nipaatohyavashah Khagah, Roudrarupomsha- Aaadityo Bahu Rashmih Suvarchasi/ Vasuvego Mahavego Manovego Nishaacharah, Sarva Vaasi Shriya Vaasi Upadeshakaro karah/ Muniraatmaa Niraalokah Sambhagnascha Sahasradah, Plakshi cha Paksha rupascha Ati Deepto Vishaampatih/ Unmado Madanah Kaamohyaswatthorthakaro Yashah, Vama Devascha Vaamascha Praagdakshina Udanmukhah (41-50)
Vyalarupa or of the Swarupa of Vasuki the Sacred Serpent which helped Deva Danavas in the churning of the Ocean of Milk to produce Amrita; Guhavaasi or the One who resides in the Cave-like heart of each and every Being; Graha maali or the One who is adorned by the garland of the Nava Grahas or the Nine Planets of Aditya-Soma-Mangala-Budha-Guru-Shukra-Shani-Rahu-Ketu; Tarangavit or Shiva is like the huge waves of Oceans representing the Creation of the Universe, its Preservation and Termination; Tridasha or Shiva signifying the three stages of Life viz. Birth-Growth and Death; Kaalkrudkarma or the Perceiver of Actions of the Past-Present-Future Timings; Sarva Bandha Vimochana or Maha Deva is the Sole Medium to release from the shackles of Samsara; Bandhanastwa or He who ties up firmly from Ignorance and Wants; Surendranaam yudhi Shatru Vinaashanah or the liberator of Devatas from the Adversaries in battles; *Sankhya Prasadah or He who bestows the Knowledge of Sankhya Yoga or of dual philosophy or of Purusha and Prakriti derived from Enumeration of Numbers as varied from Pure Advaita based on Purusha alone;
*[While Vedas affirmed ‘Aham Brahmaasmi’ or I am the Single Brahma, Sankhya Yoga analysed Purusha or the Pure Consciousness and Prakriti; the latter comprises various Units viz. Moola Prakriti-Three Antahkaranas or the Inner Instruments of Buddhi, Ahamkara and Manas; Bahya karanas or External Instruments consisting of Five Jyanendriyas or Sense Organs ie. Eyes-Ears-Tongue-Nose-Skin; Five Karmendriyas or Action Organs viz. Hands, Legs, Mouth, Rectum and Reproductive organ; Pancha Tanmatras of Sight-Hearing-Taste-Touch and Smell; Pancha Bhutas or Five Natural Elements of Earth-Water-Fire-Air-Sky];
Durvasa or Maharshi Durvasa of Shivaamsha; Sarva Sadhu nishevita or He is worshipped intensively by all Sadhus ; Praskandaya or of the Swarupa of Skanda Kumara; Vibhagajnah or the Unique and Indivisible; Atulya or Inestimable and Infinite; Yagjna bhaga vid or He who has the ultimate understanding of Yagnas, Agni Karyas like Homaas and so on; Sarva Vaasa or ‘Ishaavaasyamidam Sarvam’ or the Omni-Present; Sarvachari or He who does every thing : ‘Sarvam Charatiti Sarvachari’; Durvasa or He exists even in the Places undeserving of existence; Vasavomarah or of the Swarupa of Indra and Devas; Haimo or Suvarna Swarupa; Hemakaro or the Provider of Golden and Precious Articles; Yagjnaaya or the Emblem of Yagjnas; Sarvadhariney or ‘ Sarvamananta Brahmanda Samuham dharati’ or the Holder of the totality of Lokas; Dharottamah or the Best among those who contain the weight of Earth like Adi Sesha; Lohitaksha or the One with Red Eyes representing Anger and Fury against the Evil; Mahaakscha or the Superlative Visioned; Vjayaaksha or He who always visions victory only; Visharadah or the One who is cognizant of every detail of the Happenings; Sangraha or the Sole Absorber and Recogniser of all details of Events; Nigraho or he has the inimitable ability to demarcate the Evil Forces and destroy them; Karta or the Unique Perfomer; Sapa cheera nivaasinah or the One clothed with Snake Skin; Mukhyo or the Supreme; Amukhyascha or the Pretender as a Commoner or alternatively He who has none beyond Him; Dehascha or He assumes a Physical Appearance while He has none; Kahalascha or of Huge Physique; Sarva Kaamada or the Fulfiller of Every wish; Sarva Kaala Prasadascha or ever ready to bless and bestow; Sarvada or he never distinguishes Person, Time and Place to fulfill; Sarvakala prasadascha or Mahadeva never ever mark a time to provide and fulfill; Subalah or of Extraordinary Shakti / Strength; Balarupabhrut or He who is the Epitome of Shakti and Handsomeness as He is well proportioned and smart; Sarva Kaama pradaschaiva or He fulfills the wishes of all; Sarvada or He is never tired of promoting others; Sarvato mukhah or He is multi-faced in benefitting others; Akaasha or the One who created Aakasha being one among the Pancha Bhutas or Five Primary Elements besides Prithvi/Earth, Aapas or Water, Teajas or Agni and Vayu or Air; Nirvirupascha or the Formless Unknown; Nipaatah or The One who falls in the Physique and Soul of every Being; Avashaha or He is Uncontrollable; Khagah or Shiva is like a free bird flying on Skies without any hindrance or problem; Roudra Rupo or of Fearful Swarupa; Aamshu or Ray of Light; *Aditya or of the Dwadashaditya Swarupas of Surya-
[* viz. Indra, Dhata, Parjanya, Mitra, Aryama, Pusha, Shakra, Varuna, Bhaga, Twashta, Viviswan, Amshuman and Vishnu];
Bahu Rashmi or the several splendored brilliance; Suvarchasi or of Great Radiance; *Vasuvegah or of the Speed of *Ashta Vashus –
[*viz. Aapa, Soma, Dhruva, Dhara, Anala, Anila, Pratyusha and Prabhasa]
Maha Vego or of Top Speed; Mano vego or as fast as One’s Mind; Nishacharah or Shiva is an adept and habitual traveller in the nights and darkness; Sarva Vaasi or the One Present in the Consciousness of all the beings; *Shriya vaasi or the One who exists in Shriya in the Form of Bala Tripura Sundari Mantra, Panchakshari Mantra, Shodashaakshari Mantra and so on; Upadeshakarah or the One who is the Incredible Instructor of Mantras and so on; Munih or Shiva is the Greatest Sage that one could ever visualise; Atma or the Supreme Soul who is unparalleled; Niraloka or the One who examines every Devotee about his or her credentials; Sambhagnascha or He who is depended by one and all; Sahasradah or He who is too liberal in fulfilling thousands and thousands of One’s aspirations; Plakshi cha or of the Swarupa of Originality and Versatality; Plaksha Rupascha or Highly Composed and Creative; Ati Deepto or the Highly Illuminated and Bright; Visham Pati or the Master of the Universe; Unmadah or he pretends madness to test his devotees or alternative explanation is that his devotees are head-over-heels infatuated with Him; Madanah or the destroyer of Kama Deva; Kamaha or the Swarupa of Kama or Desire; Ashwathah or the Form of the Sacred Tree Ashvattha; Artha Karo or the Provider of Wealth which is the Means of Saturation leading to the Urge for Dharma and Moksha; Yashah or the Symbol of Keerti or Fame; *Vamadevascha or One of the Five Incarnations of Maha Deva-
[*viz. Sadyojata of White Colour looking Westward blessing Brahma to initiate Srishti; Vama Deva of Red Complexion looking North in deep meditative posture; Agoresha of blue complexion representing destructive / regenerating Energy looking Southward; Tatpurusha of Yellow Complexion looking Eastward as the Maha Purusha dominated by Maya; and Ishana looking South East as Sada Shiva of Ash Complexion who is the Embodiment of Vidya , Creative Energy and Sublimity];
Vaamascha Praakdakshina Udan mukhah or of the Four Directions of West-East-South-North);
Siddha Yogi Maharshischa Siddharthah Siddhi Saadhakah, Bhikshuscha Bhikshurupascha Vipano Mridaravyayah/ Maha Seno Vishaakhascha Shashthibhago Gavampatih, Vajra hastascha Visrambhocha mulastambhana yevacha/ Riturritukarastaalo Madhur Madhukaro Varah, Vachaspatyaya Vaajasano Nityamaashrita pujitah/ Brahmachaari Lokachaari Sarvachaari Suchaari Suchaaravit, Ishaana Ishwarah Kaalo Nishaachaari Pinaakabhrut/Nimittastho Nimittamcha Nandirnaandikaro Harah, Nandeeshwara Sunandee cha Nandano Vishamardanah/ Bhagahaari Nihantaa cha Kaalo Loka Pitaamahah, Chaturmukho Maha Lingah Charu Lingah tathaivacha/ Lingaadhakshah Suradhyaksho Yogaadhyaksho Yugaavahah, Beejaadhyaksho Beejakartaa Adhyaatmaanugato Balah/ Itihasascha Kalpascha Damano Jagadeeshwarah, Dambho Dambhakaro Daataa Vamsho Vamshakarah Kalih/ Loka Kartaa Pashupatih Maha Kartaahyadhokshajah, Aksharam Param Brahma Balavaan Shakta evacha/ Nityohyaneesah Shuddatmaa Shuddho Maanyo Gatirhavih, Prasadastu Balo Darpo Darpano HavyaIndrajit/ ( 51-60)
Siddha Yogi or Maha Deva is at once a Siddha or the Accomplisher as also a Maha Yogi or the One who is the balancer of Physical and Internal Control; Maharshischa Siddhartha or He is of the Swarupa of the Illustrious Kapila who was both a Siddha and Yogi; Siddha Sadhakah or the One who facilitates the attainment of Siddhi; Bhikshuscha or of the Characteristic of Sanyasa who has renounced the Samsara formally; Bhikshurupascha or of the Profile of a Bhikshu; Vipano or the Trader who seeks to maximise profit since Shiva too bargains for the input of the devotee’s bhakti and sacrifices; Mridah or Earth / Clay ie. Strong Willed and hard to Control; Avyayah or Undiminishing; Maha Senah or the Incarnation of Kumara with Huge Army of Devas; Vishakha or of the Swarupa of Lord Skanda; Shashthi Bhagah or the Sixth Tatwa of Courage among the Sixty Four Parts cited in Mandukopanishad viz. Lord Skanda; Gavampatih or the Lord of Cows – ‘Gavaam Chhandorupa Dhenunaam Patih Swami Pranava Rupah’; Vajra hastascha or Maha Deva’s hands are of the nature of the indestructible Vajra; Visrambhocha or the One who has made Sarva Devas stunned like pillars at his prowess; Mula stambhana or He got the entire Universe numbed out of senses by his exraordinary Powers; Rituh or Bhagavan of of the Form of Seasons viz.Vasanta-Greeshma-Varsha-Sharad-Hemanta-Shishira; Riturkara or the Maker of the Ritus at their peridiocity; Taalaya or the One who is present in a Seed Form at the deepest rock- bottoms of the Oceans of Samsara; Madhuh or the Essence of Sweet Life; Madhukaraaya or the Producer of Pushpa Rasa or honey; Varah or the Personifiction of Boons bestowed to the devotees; Vachaspatyaya or the of the Form of Vachaspati or Brihaspati; *Vajasaney or Shiva is of the Vaajasa Form of Vedas which Surya Deva taught to Yagnyavalkya-
[* Vaishampayana in a fit of rage asked his disciple Yagnyavalkya to omit what all Yajur Veda he taught the latter; the vomitted parts of the Veda were picked up by the co students of the Guru and that part of the Veda came to be called Taittireeya as the co students ate the omit by assuming the form of Tittiri birds; Yagnavalkya performed severe Tapasya to Surya Deva and the latter was pleased and taught Yagjnyavalkya such rare portions of Yajur Veda which were not known to Guru Vaishampayana too. Surya Deva assumed the form of a Horse / Vaajapa and hence what Yagnyavalkya learnt came to be famed as Vajasaneeya Veda eversince];
Nityaaya or Maha Deva is ‘ Nityam Nirvikaram Brahma tadrupam’; Aashrita Pujitaaya or Maha Deva is always worshipped by those Bhaktas who seek His close attention; Brahmachari or Shiva is like a Bachelor Brahmana who is conversant with Vedas; Lokachariney or the One who moves about freely among the Three Lokas; Sarvachari or He is mobile every where and among all species; Sucharavidey or He has total knowledge of every detail; Ishana or He is the personification of all branches of Learning: ‘ Ishaanah Sarva Vidyanaam’ says Shruti; Ishwaraaya or ‘Ishwarah Sarva Bhutaanaam’ or Maha Deva is the Inner Self of all the ‘Charachara’ Beings; Kaalaya or the Supreme Measurement of Time; Nishacharaaya or the One who moves about in the nights and darkness; Pinaka bhrut or the Carrier of Pinaka Bow and Arrows; Nimitthastha or the One present in Thoughts and Perceptions; Nimitthaaya or the Cause itself; Nandaye or the Signage of Happiness and Contentment; Nandikaraaya or the Provider of Joy; Haraaya or the One who destroys all difficulties; Nandeesaras -cha or Ishwara the bestower of contentment; Nandi or the Shailadirupa or the the Carrier of Maha Deva; Nandanaya or Ananda Karta or the Father-Figure of Lord Krishna; Vishamardana or the One who subdued ‘Kalakuta Visha’ or the Poisonous Flames materialised at the time of ‘Amrita Mathana’; Bhagahaari or indifferent to and destroyer of worldly objects; Nihantaacha or the Terminator of Life; Kaalaya or of the Swarupa of Maha Kala or of Lord Yama; Brahma or the Creator; Pitamaha or of the venerable Swarupa of a Grand Father; Chaturmukhah or the Four Faced Originator of Four Vedas; Maha Linga or the Swarupa of the Most Powerful and Worshipped Linga Swarupa; Charu Linga or the Attractive and Shapely Linga; Lingaadhyakshaaya or the Supreme Manifestation of Lingas which are of ‘Avyakta’or Unknown and ‘Maha’ Shakti; Suraadhyasha or Ishwara is indeed the Over Lord of Devatas; Yohadhyaksha or the Presiding Deity of Yogis too; Yugaavah or the Eternal Regulator of Yugas and Kalpas; Beejaadhyakshah or the One who is the best assessor of the qualityof Seeds that germinate the plants of Virtue or Vice; Beeja Karta or the Creator of Seeds of varying end-purposes; Adhyaatmaney or the One who controls one’s own Inner Self; Anugataya or He who follows the tenets of Dharma as prescribed; *Balah or the Bala Swarupa [ *‘Bala Vikaranaaya- Balaaya-Bala Pramathanaaya-Sarva Bhuta Damanaaya-Mamonmanaaya Namah]; Itihasaaya or the Recount of Ancient Events and Happenings in Bharata varsha; *Kalpascha or the Review of the Happenings of Kalpaas-[Matsya Purana enumerated Thirty Kalpas; each Kalpa is of the duration of 4.32 billion years on a repetivive basis and the Kalpas include Sweta, Neelalohita, Vamadeva, Aghora, Varaha etc.]; Damanah or Sarvabhuta Damanaaya or Overpowering all the Beings; Jagadeeshwara or Jagataa –makhila Brahmandaana meeshwarah’ or the Supreme Energy of Brahmanda; Dambhaya or The Shatru Vinashaka Swarupa with Pride; Dambhakara or the Creator of several Entities capable of claiming justifed Self-Pride; Adambhaya or Irresistible to those Vicious Forces claiming false superiority; Vaidambho or He likes those who do not suffer from undue pride and self-esteem; Vashyo or Bhagavan is under the influence of sincere devotees; Vashakarah or He also encourages those who tend to be controlled by Shiva; Kalih or Kali Yuga Swarupa; Loka Karta or the Creator of Lokas ; Pashupataye or The Chief of Pashus or all the Beings including humanity; Maha Kartrey or the Creator of Brahmanda; Adhokshajah or of the Form of Vishnu as being responsible, stable and Ideal; Aksharah or Naasha Shunya or Indestructible; Paramam or the Outstanding; Brahma or ‘Brahma Sacchidaananda Sadrupa’ or of the Sacred Form of Everlasting Bliss; Balavan or the Omni-Potent or of Unique Strength; Shaktah or the Maha Shakti which permeates the Samsara in Totality; Nithah or the Constant; Aneeshaya or there exists nothing without Ishwara; Shuddatma or of Paramatma devoid of Impurity and Blemish; Shuddhaya or Maha Rahita in its Primeval and Pristine Form; Manaya or of Pramana Swarupa or the Distinguished and Superlative Profile; Gatih or of the Path of Virtue; Havishey or of the the Offerings of Homa; Prasadastu or of the Return blessing of worship; Balaaya or of the Form of Power and Courage; Darpah or the Suppressor of Arrogance of the Evil Forces; Darpanaya or Shiva is the Reflective Picture of the Unknown; Havya or the Sacred offering to Devas through Agni Deva; Indrajit or Maha Deva is won over by Indra’s high devotion);
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Vedakarah Sutrakaarah Vidwaamshcha Paramadanah, Maha Megha nivaasi cha Maha Ghoro Vashi karah/ Agnijjwaalo Mahaajjwaalah Paridhumraavruto Ravih, Vrishabhah Shankarah Nityah Varchasi Dhumralochanah/ Neelasthangulubdhascha Shobhano Nara Vigrahah, Swastidasswasti bhaavascha Shobhno Laghuh/ Utsangascha Mahangascha Maha Garbha parayanah, Krishna Varnah Suvarnascha Indriyah Sarva Dehinah/ Maha Paado Maha Hasto Maha Kaayo Maha Yashah, Maha Murthaa Maha Maatro Maha Netro Nishaalayah/ Mahaaskandaah Mahya Karnah Mahoshthascha Maha Hanuh, Maha Naaso Maha KamburMaha greevah Smashanavaan/ Maha Balo Maha Tejaa hyantaraatmaa Mrigaalayah, Lambnano Lambitoshthascha Maha Mayah Payo nidhih/Maha Danto Maha Damshtro Maha Jihwo Maha Mukhah, Maha Nakho Maha Romaa Mahe kesho Maa Jatah/ Prasannascha Prasaadascha Pratyayo Girisadhanah, Snehanosnehanaschaiva Ajitascha Maha Munih/ Vrishako Vrisha Kletuscha Analo Vaayu Vahanah, Mandali Meru dhaamascha Devaadhipatirevacha/ (61-70) ;
Veda karah or the Originator of the Vedas; *Sutra kaaraaya or the Initiator of Brahma Sutras-
[Brahma Sutras or Vedanta Sutras are Doctrines broadly of Nyaya Prasthaana or Yukti Prasthana based on Hindu Dharma, signifying Nyaya or Justice, Logic and Reasoning. These Sutras are stated to have been originally recognised by Badarayana Rishi and are also known as Uttara Meemaamsa Sutras, Sharirika Sutras etc. It is further stated that there are some 555 Sutras in Four Adhyayas or Chapters viz. Samanvaya or Coordination, Avirodha or Objections, Sadhana or Possibilities, and Phala or Achievements. Adi Shankara, Ramanuja, Madhvacharya and a few more scripted their own Bhashyas or Intrepretations.
Vidwanscha or Shiva was the Original Vidwan or the All-Knowing; Para mardanaya or the devastator of His antagonists; Maha Megha Nivaasi or the Resider of Clouds; Maha Ghorah or The Harshest Punisher of the wicked; Vashikarah or the instant Bewicher or Captivator; Agni Jwala or He is of the Form of severe Flames; Maha Jwala or of Inferno-like conflagration; Paridhumraavritaya or of the Surrounding Smoke of flames and the resultant suffocation of intensity; Ravaya or He is of the Form of Bhaskara with extreme radiance and heat; Vrishabhah or the Carrier of Maha Deva; Shankara or Bhakta Vashamkara; Nithya or the Perpetual; Varschaswi or the Embodiment of Brightness; Dhumara lochana or He is smoke-visioned due to constant presence near Homaagnis; Neelaya or of Blue Complexioned viz. the Aghora Swarupa facing Southward representing his destructive instinct; Sanguluptaya or ‘Angam Vaama Shareeram Luptam Devyaa Premahrutam’ or His Physique is of finger size : ‘Namo Hraswaaya cha Vamanaayacha’- yet His heart is full of Affection and care for Devas; Shobhanaya or of the Graceful and Elegant Swarupa of Artha Naareeshwari; Nara Vigrahaya or Maha Deva who assumed Human Form to test Arjuna’s perseverance and grit and picked up argument as to who killed the animal of prey first and finally bestowed the ‘Paashupataastra’ to Arjuna; Swastida or the bestower of Auspiciousness; Swasti bhavascha or of the Ever-Willing Provider of Propitiousness to one and all; Bhogi or the Ever Enjoying Manifestation of Yogic Bliss; Bhogakarah or the Giver of Yogic Luxury and Fulfillment; Laghu or Light-hearted and easy to please; Utsangascha or Unemotional and dispassionate; Mahangascha or of Virat Swarupa; Maha Garbhah or of High Creative Energya- Another Explanation is that at the Time of Pralaya He retained the Total Creation in his belly; Pratapavan or the Emblem of Dauntless Intrepidity; Krishna Varnah / Neela Varna or of the Avatara of Lord Krishna; Suvarnascha or of Hiranya Varna or Gold Complexioned; Indriyah Sarva dehinah or He has the Physical limbs of all human and other species ; Maha Paado or of Gigantic feet; Maha Hasto or of Huge hands; Maha Kaayo or of Collosal Physique; Maha Yashah or of Glorious Reputation; Maha Murtha or of very mammoth head; Maha maatro or of Incredible dimensions; Maha Mitrah or of Celebrated Companions like Vishnu, Brahma and Devis; Nishalayah of where darkness is present; Maha Skandho or of massive shoulders; Maha Karnah or of immense ears; Mahoshthascha of enormous lips; Maha Hanuh or of very big jaws; Maha Naaso or of vast nose; Maha Kantho or of very large sized throat and Maha Greevah or of Vast neck; Smashanavaan or the Dweller of Smashanas or burial places; Mahabalo or of unbelievable strength; Maha Teja or of inconceivable manifestation of radiance; Antaratma or the Innerself ;comprisng Pacha Koshas of Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, VigjnaanaMaya and Ananda maya; Mrigalaya or He like Maharshis keep Deer in their ‘Ashramas’; Lambitoshthascha or He who has overdrawn lips; Nishthascha or the Model Practtioner of Nishtha or Traditional daily Karma Kaanda involving Cleanliness, Eating Regulation, abstinence and Japa-Homa-Puja-Vrata-Upavasas; Maha Mayah or the Swarupa of ‘Vishnvaadi Mohikaa Maya’ or the Unknown Prakriti; *Panonithih or the Swarupa of Sapta Samudras-
[*Seven Oceans viz. Lavana/Salt, Ikshurasa or Sugarcane juice, Sura / wine, Ghrita / Ghee, Dahi/ Curd, Ksheera / Milk and Suswada / Sweet water];
Mahadantaya or of Big Teeth; Maha Damshtro or of Big Jaws; Maha Jihvo or of Bis tongue; Maha Mukhah or of huge face; Maha Nakho or of very large nails; Maha Romah or of very long body hairs; Maha Keshah or of very lengthy hairs on his head;
*Maha Koshah or of Five Massive Koshas or Inner Body Sheaths viz.
[*Annamaya Kosha, Pranamaya Kosha, Manomayakosha, Vigjnaanamaya kosha and Anandamaya Kosha];
Mahajatah or of massive twisted and coarse hairs; Prasannacha or of the Visage of Unruffled and cool temperament; Prasadascha or the Great Bestower of boons; Pratyayah or Pratyayonubhava Rupa or of highly experienced wisdom; Girisadhanah or Maha Deva has the record experience of utilising meru Mountain as his bow while killing Tripurasuras; Snehaaya or the Personfication of ideal friendship especially to his devotees; Asnehaaya or He is totally detached and neutral; Ajitascha or Invincible; Maha Munih or the Outsanding Muni /Ascetic; Vriksaakaarah or of the Swarupa of the Huge Tree of Life or Perpetual Existence of Lokas; Vriksha Ketu or Shiva displays Vriksha as has Chariot Flag; Analah or is the Swarupa of Vayu signifying speed and strength; Vayu Vahana or He utilises Vayu Deva as his Carrier; Mandali or Maha Veda utilises the Surya-Chandra-Agnis Mandalis is His Three Eyes; Meru dhama or the resident od Meru mountain as his abode; Devadhipatirevacha or He is appropriately called Maha Deva as Shiva is the Devadhi Deva);
Atharva seershah Saamasya Ruksahasra-amitekshanah, Yajuhpaada bhujo Guhyah Prakaasho Angamastathaa/ Amoghartha prasadascha Antarbhaavyah Sudarshanah, Upakara Priyah Sarvah Kanakah Kanchanasthita/ Naabhirnandikaro bhavah Pushkarh Sthapatih Sthitah, Sarva Shastro Dwadashastrasanaadyo Yagjno Yajwa Samahitah/ Nago Neelah Kavih Kaalascha Makarah Kala pujitah, Sagano Ganakaasascha Bhutavaahana Sarathih/ Bhasmaashayo Bhasma Goptaa Bhasma Bhutastarur gunah, Lokapaalastathaalokah Mahatma Sarvapujitah/ Shuklastri Shukla sampannah Shuchirbhuta nishevitah, Ashramasthah Kapotastho Vishkarmamatirvarah/ Vishala shaakhah Taamraashtho -hyambujaalah Sunischalah, Kapilah Kalashah Sthulah Aayudhaschaiva Paroparah/ Gandharvo hyaditih Tarkshyah Suvigjneyah Susharadah, Parashvaayutho Devo hyanukaari Subandhavah/ Tumba Veeno Maha Krodha Urthwaretaa Jaleshayah, Ugro Vamshakaro Vamsho Vamsha Vaadah Aninditah/ Sarvaanga Rupo Maayaavi Suhrudoh Anilonalah, Bandhano Bandhakartaa cha Sumandhana Vimochanah/ (71-80)
Atharva Seershah or Maha Deva’s Head is the representation of Atharva Veda; Saamaasya or His face is the depiction of Saama Veda; Ruksahasrorjitekshanah or Rig Veda is of the portrayal of the severityof thouands of Agnis; Yajurpaadabhuja or Shiva’s feet and hands; Guhyah or the concealed meaning of Nitukta of Vedangas and of Upanishads; Prakashah or the Highlighter of Veda-Vedanga-Upanishadadi Scriptures; Jangamastathaa or His movements are rapid and significant; Amogaarthah Prasadascha or He is not only infallible but also unfailing as the pujas and prayers by devotees are never unheeded and always rewarded; Abhigamyah or He is easily approachable; Sudarshanah or He is also visionable; Upakara Priya or He takes delight in helping and reciprocating good deeds; Sarvaaya or the One who is every body and everything to his followers; Kanakaya or of Suvarna Swarupa; Kanchanacchavih or He is the shine of Gold; Naabhih or the Centtral Pivot of the Fourteen Bhuvanas; Nandikarah or the Provider of Contentment and joy; Bhavaha or the Attention Point of Everybody; Pushkarah or He Swarupa of the *Pushkara Tirtha the Single significant Abode of Brahma-
[*Brahma Vaivarta Purana mentioned that when Brahma materialised Narada Maharshi as his Maanasa Putra or the Mind Born Son, the latter refused to become a ‘Grihasthi’ or married person to further the cause of Creation but Narada refused as he did not opt of Samsara bandhanaas or shackles of Family Life; Brahma then cursed Narada that the latter would become in life as a nomad of frivolous nature indulging in music, singing, wandering, mischief mongering and so on. Narada felt hurt and gave a return curse to Brahma that the latter would not be worshipped in any Temple nor prayed to by any person; Narada however relented that only Pushkara Tirtha would be an exception where Brahma would be worshipped. Brahma too conceded that Narada would be an Outstanding Vidwan of Veda- Vedangas and always perform deeds that eventally end up in Loka Kalyana or for the advantage of Lokas].
Sthapati or the ‘Achanchala’ or Firm in his decisions; Sthirah or Immovable; Sarva Shastraaya or the emblem of all Shastras; *Dwadasha or of Dwadasha Ling Rupa-
[*viz. Kedara in Himalayas, Bhima Shankara at Dakinya, Vishweswara at Varanashi, Triambika on the banks of River Gautami, Somanatha in Sourashtra, Mallikarjuna in Sri Shailam, Maha Kaala at Ujjain; Amareshwara at Omkareshwara, Vaidyanadha in ChittaBhumi, Nageshwara at Daruka, Rameshwara at Setu Bandhana, and Ghrishneshwara near Ellora Caves] ;
Traasana or Fearful; Adyo or the Primeval; Yagjnao or the Yagjna Swarupa; Yajwa Samahitah or the Attainer of the One responsible for Yagjnas; Nago or the Swarupa of Mountains like Shrishaila; Neelah or of Blue Complexioned Aghoresha Swarupa; Kavih or the Outstanding Poet; Kaalah or of the Swarupa of Yama Dharma Raja; *Makarah or of the Crocodile Form of *Shishumara Samsthana’ with Dhruva at the tail; Prajapati-Agni-Indra-Dharma in the tail; hip position Sapta Rishis; Right and Left Sides the Stars; Upper Chin Agasti; Lower Chin Yama Raja; MouthMars; Genital Saturn; neck back Jupiter; Chest Sun; Heart Narayana; Mind Moon; Neck Rahu; Navel Venus; breasts Ahwini Kumars; Life Budha, and Skin Pores various Stars]; Kaala Pujita o Mahe Deva is worshiped by Kalala Deva; Saganah or He is always accommodated with Pramatha Ganas or the Chiefs of Army; Gana Karascha or the Creator of the Ganas; Bhuta Bhavana Saarathih or the Charioteer of Bhutas or Beings and Bhavanas or their inner feelings; Bhasmashaayi or the One who lies on heaps of Bhasma/ Ash; Bhasma gopta or He retains bhasma in concealed form with his devotees for their proptiousness and safety; Bhasma Bhuta tanuh or Shiva has a bodyfully smeared with Bhasma; Ganah or He is accom-panied by Ganas like Bhringa; Lokapalah or the Great Administrator of Lokas; Alokascha or of the Unknown Supreme Energy beyond the Trilokas; Mahatma or the Top most Manifestation; Sarva Pujitah or One worshipped by the all in Totality; Shukla or of the White Bright Complexion; Tri Shukla Sampanna or of the three kinds of Manasa-Vaacha-Karmana or Mind-Vocal-Action Routes of Purity; Shuchih or the Form of Sacredness inferring ‘Bahyaantrahshuchi’ or External Cleanliness and Internal Purity’; Bhuta nishevitah or He is surrounded for worship by all the Beings; Ashramasthah or the One who regulates the Chatur Varnas in human Society; *Kapotastho or of the Example of the legendary Shibi Chakravarti and the Kapota or dove-
[* Shiva in the form of a hunter asserted that he was justified in seeking to kill the dove but Shibi offered an equal amount of the dove meat from his own body in order to save the dove!]
Vishwakarma or Shiva in the Form of Vishwakarma the Deva Shilpi; Pataye or the Master of the Universe; Virat or of Virat Swarupa; Vishala Shakhah or Parama Shiva is present in the all- Comprehensive and Broad branches of Veda Vedanga Swarupa; Tamroshthah or of the copper-complexed Lips; Ambujaalaaya of the Huge Form of Seven Oceans; Sunischalah or the Deep and Steady Form; Kapilah or of the Rupa of the Famed Kapila Maharshi; Kalashah or the Sacred Vessel with Holy Waters of Gangaadi Jeeva Nadis or Ever Flowing Rivers like Ganga; Sthulah or of Giant Form of Body-heaviness; Ayudhaschiva or well armed with Ayudhaas or armaments; Paroparah or the One who is Earliest Known and Aparah the One who is solidly behind every Confirmist; Gandharvah or of the Swarupa of Gandharvas; Aditih or Deva Mata; Tarkshya or Vinateya Rupa / Garudathe Carrier of Bhagavan Vishnu; Avigjneyah or the One who is enigmatic; Susharadah or of Amiable Conversationalist; Parashwaayudhaaya or of the Swarupa of Parashu Rama who carries an invincible axe; Deva or the Adi Deva; Arthakaari or the One who bestows wealth; Subaandhawa or He has excellent companions; Tumbu Veeno or the One who delights himself by playing Tumbu Veena made of Thumbi Phala; Maha Kopa or the characterisation of Fury or as stated ‘Namastey Rudra Manyavey’ or ‘Kopa Nayana Yuktam’; Urthwa Retasey or ‘Urthwa Brahmanda Retah Udaka Rupam yasya sa Urthwa Retaah’ or He who is of the Swarupa of the Upper Segment of water of Brahmanda; Jaleshaaya or of Narayana Swarupa; Ugrah or the Symbol of Anger; Vashamkaro or the One who names Vamshasa or Genealogy of generations like Surya Vamsha or Chandra Vamsha etc; Vamsha or the Personification of different Genelalogies itself; Vamsavaadi or ‘Vamsham Venum vaadayati’ or the Expert in playing the music based on Venu or flute; Aninditah or Bhagavan Shiva is beyond any grievance or blame as he is faultless; Sarvangarupi or of Full Form of Physical Appearance ; Mayavi or ‘Mayinantu Maheshwaram’ or He is of Prakriti Swarupa of the Alternate Swarupa of Purusha; Balaaya or of ‘Balo Halaayudha Rupah’ or of the Avatara of Balarama the elder brother of Lord Krishna; Bandhanaaya or of Bandhana Paasha Rupa or the One who tightens the ropes of Samsara; Bandha Karta or the One who is the one responsible of the shackles ; Subandhana Vimochana He also is the One who releases from the chains and bestows Salvation);
Rakshasoghno Kaamaarih Maha Damshtro Mahaayudhah, Bahudhaa Nanditah Sarvah Shankarah Chandrashekharah/ Amaresho Maha Devo Vishwa Devassuraariha, Ahnirbhuddhnonilaabhyascha Chekitaano Haristathaa/ Ajaikapaaccha Kaapaali Trishankurajitasshivah, Dhanvantarih Dhumaketuh Skando Vaishravanastathaa/ Dhaata Shakrascha Vishnuscha Mitraswvashtaa Dhruvo Darah, Prabhava Sarvago Vaayuraryamaa Savitaa Ravih/ Ushanguscha Vidhaata cha Mandhaata Bhutabhavanah, VibhuhVarnavibhavi cha Sarva Kaama Gunaavahah/ Padmanaabho Mahagarbhah Chandravaktronilo-nalah, Balavaamschopashantascha Puranah Punya Kruttamah/ Kurukarta Kuruvaasi Kurubhuto Gunoushadhah, Sarvaashrayo Garbhachaari Sarveshaam Praninaampatih/ Deva Devah Sukhaasakthah Sadasat Sarva Rathnavit, Kailasa Giri Vaasaa cha Himavadgiri Samshrayah/ Kulahaari Kulakartaa Bahu Vidyo Bahupradah, Vanijo Varthaki Vriksho Vakulah Chandanacchadah/ Hayagreevo Maha Shatrurlolamscha Mahoushadhih, Siddharthakaari Siddhaarthah Chando Vyakaranottarah/ (81-90)
Rakshashoghnahor the decimator of Rakshasaas; Kaama Deva’s antoganist; Maha Damshtrah or of huge jaws of Yagna Varaha Deva; Maha Yuddhaah or the Symbol of titanic battles; Bahudha Nanditah or made countless Beings happy and contented; *Sharvah or one of the Ashta Murtis of Shiva –[* Ashta Murtis as per Shiva Purana in Shata Rudra Samhita are Sharva ruling East representing Prithvi / Earth; Bhava ruling North East as Aapas or Water; Rudra securing North as Agni; Ugra ruling North West in the form of Vayu; Bheema protecting West in the Form of Akasha or Sky; Pashupati safeguarding South West being Kshetragjna or the Supreme Soul; Ishana as Surya guarding South and Maha Deva defending South East as Chandra];
Shankarah or the Provider of Auspiciousness-‘Sham Kalyaanam karey yasmaaditi Shankarah’; Chandrashekhara or His head adorned with Chandra; Amaresha or the Utmost of Devas; Maha Devah; Vishwa Devah or the Deva of the Universe in Totality; Asuraariha or the Great Enemy of Asuras; Ahnirbuddhnyaaya or Maha Sesha in Patala –alternative explanation being one of the Names of Shiva; Anilabhya or of the Swarupa of Vayu; Chekitano or the One who has full knowledge of Everything; Harih or Hara is another Swarupa of Hari; *Ajaikapaada or one of the Rudras-
[*Ekadasha Rudras are Kapali, Pingala, Bheema, Virupaksha, Vilohita, Shastra, Ajaikapaada, Ahirbudhnya, Shambhu, Chanda and Bhava];
*Kapali or He who carried Brahma Kapala since he resented Brahma’s wedding his own daughter Saraswati and snipped the Fifth Head of Brahma thus owing to Brahma Hatya and got the epithet of Kapali;
Trishanku or He is the Fountain head of Trigunas viz. Satwa-Rajasa- Tamasa; Ajitah or Invincible; Shivah or Shubhaprada or Provider of Happiness and Propitiousness; *Dhanvantari or Bhishagwa Swarupa or the Top Physician in the Trilokas who was manifested at the Time of ‘Ksheera Mathana’ or churning of the Ocean of Milk along with the Vessel containing Amrita; Dhumaketu or Shiva like a Comet emerging from Solar System in the Form of a Fire-Ball; Skanda or of the Form of Lord Kumara; Vaishraavana or of Kubera Rupa; Dhata or of Brahma Swarupa or of Ashta Vasus; Shakrascha or of Indra Rupa ; Vishnu or the Alternative of Shiva; Mitra or Dwadsha Adityas; Twashta or Vishwakarma the Architect of Devas or also of of Dwadasha Adityas; Dharah or Devi Bhumi or of Ashtavasus; Dhruva the Celestial Star holding the axis of the Lokas or One among Ashta Vasus; Prabhasa or of the Ashta Vasus; Sarvagah or He who exists in all Beings; Aryama or among Dwadasha Adityas; Savita or of Savitri Swarupa; Ravi or Shiva is of Surya Deva Rupa; Uhanguscha or Surya with his piercing Sun Rays; Vidhata or the One who decides the Destiny of all Beings; *Mandhata or Shiva is of the Swarupa of Mandhata-
[*Mandhata Chakravati of Surya Vamsha born of Vaivaswa Manu in the Lineage of Ikshwaku which included the Famed Puranjaya / Kakustha and Yuvanashra. Mandhata’s birth was indeed intersting: His father Yuvanashra performed a Unique Yagnya targetting Indra to beget a boy of Indra’s name and fame . In the course of the Yagna for a few days, one night Yuvanashra felt extremely thirsty and drank up the ‘Mantra Jala’ or the Sanctified Water which the Rishis kept aside with Mantras so that the Queen could drink and get conceived to beget an Indra-like Son on the following morning. But the King who drank up the Mantra Jala and he got conceived instead. Eventually after nine months the King got severe pains and the Rishis cut open the King’s abdomen and delivered a boy. As the boy cried for milk, Indra put his forefinger which acted as the breast in the child’s mouth and saved the latter! Mandhata later became the undisputed Emporer of Sapta Dwipas on Earth ‘from where Sun rose at where it was set’; he was stated to have discovered Manasa Sarovara on Mount Kailasha and performed Tapas/ meditation on the banks of the Lake; he built a Serpent Mansion to perfom the Tapas undisturbed under a Jamun Tree from which its fruits (Blackberry) dropped in the Lake making the sounds of ‘Jam’ and the Area underneath the Tree was stated to be famed as ‘Jambu Dwipa’!It was in the lineage of Mandhata were born the Illustrious Purukusta, Muchukunda, Satyarata or Trishanku, Harischandra, and the Epic Hero Lord Shri Rama of Ramayana Fame];
Bhuta Bhavanah or Shiva is always engrossed in the constructive thoughts of all the Beings in all the Tri Lokas; Vibhu or the Supreme Most of Total Existence; Varna Vibhavi or the Creator of Chatur Varnas of Humanity; Sarva Kaama Gunaavahah or He is the Manifestation of all kinds of features although the Basic Gunas are Satwa-Rajas-Tamasa and their innumerable applications or combinations; Padma naabhah or of the Alternate Form of Vishnu who has a lotus stem top from where the Creator Brahma Deva got maerialised; Maha Garbhah or Maha Deva’s belly is so huge that at theTime of Pralaya or of Universal Extinction, the ‘Charaachara Jagat’or the Creation of all the Beings was saved in it; Chandra Vaktrah or Shiva’s Sacrosanct Face is like Chandra with his brightness and coolness; Anilonalah or Shiva is also of the Swarupas of Agni and Vayu; Balavaanscha or Maha Deva is of the Symbol of Unsurpassed Shakti or Power; Upashantascha or He indeed is the Icon of Upashanti or of Reconciliation despite great provocations;
*Puranah or the Form of Timelessness or of Maha Puranas-
[ viz. Agni-Bhagavata-Brahma-Brahmaanda-Brahma Vaivarta-Bhavishya-Matsya-Kurma-Varaha-Vaamana-Vishnu-Shiva-Linga-Skanda-Markandeya-Padma-Narada-Garuda-Bhavishya];
Punyakruttey or the Demonstration of Punya or High Merit; Kuru Karta or the Creator of Kurukshetra; Kuru Vaasa or the One who resides in Kurukshetra; Kuru Bhuto or the Participants of Kuru Yuddha or the battle of Kuru where many sinful persons perished and some followers of Virtue survived; Gunoushadhah or Sarva Roga Nivartaka or the Outstanding Curer all kinds of diseases; Sarvaashrayah or the One who is looked to and surrounded by all the Beings including humans, Devas and Antoganists; Sarvachari Maha Deva visits and attends to each Prani; Garbhachari or He preserves and protects the embryos in the bellies; Sarvesham or He is the One who is the safeguard of one and all; Praninaam patih or He indeed is the Preserver of Pranis; Deva Deva or He is the God of Gods; Sukhaasakta or He is interested in the Fulfillment of Every Body’s wishes; Sadasat Vara Rartnavit or the One who could guage the Truth and Falsity just as the assessor of genuine and other qualities of jewels; Kailasavaasi or Maha Deva’s residence is the Kailasa moutain formally; Himavadgiri samshrayah or He is surrouned by Himalaya Mountain Range; Kulahari or Shiva certainly possesses the insight of those who are the destroyers of Traditions and Values; Kulakarta or He also recognises the Merit of Upkeeping the Values that are tested by Passage of Time and Practice; Bahu Vidya or Shiva is the Representation of innumerable Vidyas and branches of Learning; Bahu Pradah or He is also the Great Provider of such Arts and branches of Knowledge; Vanijah or Shiva is like the merchant; Varthaki or the Promoter; Vriksho or of the Form of a Tree of Life; Vakula or of Vakula Pushpa Swarupa; Chandanacchadah or of the Arresting Fragrance of Sandalwood; Haya greevo or of the Incarnation of Vishnu as *Haya Greeva-
[*As Vishnu was seated in Yoga Nidra leaning himself on his bow and arrows two Demons named Madhu and Kaitabha were materialised from the wax of his ears and challenged Brahma. The latter did not wake upVishnu since doing so would tantamount to Brahma hatya. Brahma then created a Varmi or white ant to bite the bow string slowly on which Vishnu leaned and as the Varmi did so, the fore-end of an arrow and the tight string of the bow gave way as there was a reverberating sound like that of Maha Pralaya and Vishnu’s head got snapped and fell in Ksheera Samudra on which Vishnu rested. Brahma and Shiva cried away so loud that Maha Maya Devi had to appear to save the situation. Meanwhile a very powerful demon called Hayagriva was resorting to merciless penance to Maha Devi to win her with the boon of invincibility. Devi then granted the boon that no force in the Three Worlds could kill the demon except by a Species with Horse as its head. Brahma and Shiva then called for Vishwakarma to kill a powerful horse and replace the latter’s head to revive Vishnu with a Horse-head ; the Incarnation of Vishnuas Hayagriva killed the demon Hayagriva instantly. Source: Devi Maha Bhagavata Purana];
Maha Shatru or Maha Deva is the most formidable Enemy as in several contexts like his victories against Tripurasuras, Jalandhara, Shankhachooda, Andhakasura, Gajasura, Nirhad Daithya, Vidal and Utpal, Arihan and so on; Alolascha or Achanchilah or He is Unshaken by worldly or other attractions; Mahoushadhah or the Paramount Medicine for curing any type of illnesses-be it Physical, Mental or Psychological; Siddhartha Kaari or The Propounder of Basic Principles of Dharma thus Shiva is : Sakala Shastreeyadi Siddha Kara; Siddharthah or Shiva is the Epitome of Sidharthas himself; Chhando Vyakaranodbhava or He is the Creator of *Six Vedangaas –
[*viz. Chhandas Shastra, Vyakarana Shastra, Jyotisha Shastra, Siksha-Sangeeta, Kalpa Grandha, and Nirukta Varnana];
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Simhanaadah Simha damshtrah Simhasya Simha Vahanah, Prabhaavatmaa Jagatkaalah Kaalo Lokahitah Tanuh/ Sarango Navachakrangah Ketumali Sadbhavanah, Bhutaalayo Bhuta Patiraho raatra maninditah/ Vardhitah Sarva Bhutaanaam Nilayascha Vibhurbhavah, Amoghah Samyatoh Hrushtah Bhojanah Prana dhaaranah/ Dhrutimaan Matimaan Dakshah Satkrutascha Yugaadhipah, Gopaali Gopatirgraamo Gocharma Vasano harih/ Hiranya baahuscha tathaa Guhaa Paalah Praveshakah, Prakrishtaarih Mahaaharsho Jitakaamo Jitendriyah/ Gaandhaarascha Suvaasascha Tapaassakto Ratirnarah, Maha Geeto Maha Nrityohyapsarogana sevitah/ Maha Ketuh Mahaadhaturnaikasaanu charaschalah, Aavedaneeya Aaveshah Sarva Gandha Sukhaavahah/Taaranastaarano Dhaatah Paridhipati Khecharah, Samyogo Vardhano Vriddhohyati Vriddho Gunaadhikah/ Nitya Atmaa Sahaayascha Devasura Patih Patih, Yuktascha Yukta baahuscha Devo Divi Suparvanah/ Aashaadhascha Susha -adhascha Skandado Harino Harah, Vapuraavarta Maanebhyo Vasu shreshtho MahaPathah/ (91-100)
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Simha naadah or Shiva’s huge scream against his enemies is like the roar of a Lion; Simha damshtrah or He assumes the ‘damshtraas’or the piercing teeth of Narasimha the Incarnation of Vishnu who terminated Hiranyakashipu Danava and saved Prahlada the exceptional Vishnu Bhakta; Simhasya or the Swarupa of a fierce Lion; Simha Vahana or the One carried by a Lion; Prabhaavaatma or of the Brightest Super Soul; Jagat Kaalah or the Regulator of the Time Measurement of the Universe; Kaalah or the Terminator; Lokahitastanuhu or of the Glorious Physique fully seized of Universal Welfare; Sarangah or of Impeccable body-parts; *Nava Chakraankah or of Nine Wheels-
[*Shri Yantra is a Tatrik Instrument comprising Nine Chakras or Wheels arranged one within another while all the enclosures being arranged in an Over all circle and each wheel has formations of triangles interlinked with each other; The Nine Chakras are respectively called as Trailokya Mohana, Sarvaashana Paripurika, Sarva Samkshobhana, Sarva Soubhagya daayika, Sarvaartha Saadhika, Sarva Rak shaakara, Sarva Roga Hara, Sarva Siddhi Pradaayika, Sarva Rakshaakara, Sarva Roga hara, Sarva Siddhi Praadayika and Sarvanandamaaya. The Interior-Most Central Point of all the Chakras is called Bindu.]
Ketumaali or Flagship of His Chariot carries the Emblem of a Vrishabha or Bull; Sadbhavanaya or of Excellent Thoughts and Feelings; Bhutaalaya or the One who preserves Pancha Bhutas or the Five Basic Elements in the Universe; Bhutapati or the Chief of all the Beings and the Pancha Bhutas as well; Ahoraatrah or of the Swarupa of Day and Nights or of Brightness as well darkness; Aninditah or Bhagavan is blameless as one is responsible for one’s own deeds; Vardhitah Sarva Bhutaanaam or Maha Deva’s constant endeavour is the upgrade the activities of all Beings in the Universe; Nilayascha or He is the Ultimate Destinaton for all; Vibhuh or the One who is Sublime and all Pervading eternally; Samhyatah or Self- Controlled; Hrushto or Harsha Visishtaya or Distinctively Blissful; Bhojanah or the One who feeds food to countless Pranis; Praana dharanah or the Provider of Life-Force to unlmited Beings; Dhrutimaan or the personification of Capability and Tolerance; Matimaan or of the Symbol of Intellect and Rationality; Dakshah or of Competence and Skill; Satkrutascha or the One always anxious of providing excellent returns to the Virtuous; Yugaadhipah or the One well-equipped and deeply engrossed with regulating the Laws and Practices of Yugas; Gopalo or –‘Gaah Indriyaani Paalayateeti Gopaalah’ ie. He who preserves sensory organs of the Body is Gopala; another explanation is that Shiva assumes the Swarupa of Lord Krishna; Gopatih or the Chief of Cows; Graamaaya or Swara Shastrokta Swarupa or the Scale in Music or alternatively a multitude of villages and communities representing humanity; Gochamavasano or the wearer of Cow hides; Harah or the destroyer of all problems and blemishes; Hiranya Baahuscha or ‘Namo Hiranya Baahavey Senaanye Dishaam cha Pataye Namah’-Shiva is of Golden Handed; Guhaa Paalaaya Pravesshinah or He who protects those Rishis and Cave dwelling Munis; Prakrishtaari or He who obliterates all kinds of enemies; Maha Harshah or the Unique Symbol of Joy; Jita kaamah or the On who transcends worldly desires and passions; Jitendriyah or surpasses physical and mental organs and their effects; *Gandhaarascha or the One of the Sapta Swaras or the Seven Primary notations of Sangeeta or Music-
[* The Sapta Swaras are the Ornaments of Shiva as for instance in ‘Shankaraabharana Raaga’viz. Shadaja-Sa, Chatushriti –Ri: Rishabha, Antara –Ga or Gandhara, Shuddha-Ma:Madhyama, Panchama-Pa, Chatushruti –Dha: Daivata, Kakaali-Ni:Nishaada. Shankara’s Ornaments are represented as follows: Sa for Sarpa, Ri for Rudra, Ga for Ganga, Ma for Mrida or provider of joy, Pa for Pushpa, Dha for Damaru and Ni for Nishkara];
Suvaasascha or the Resider of the Excellent Kailasa Mountain Top; Tapassakta or He is overwhelmed in Meditation; Ratih or the Symbol of Physical Satisfaction; Narah or is of the Nara Narayana Rishi Swarupa; Maha Geetho or He is the Form of Outstanding renderings of Songs and melodies; Maha Nrityo or Maha Deva is reputed all over the Tri Lokas for His penchant for Cosmic dance popular as Shiva Tandava; Apsarogana Sevitah or He is specially worshipped by Apsaras who are indeed renowned for their Dance and Music; Maha Ketuh or of the Distinguished Swarupa of being a Ketu Dwaja or a Bull Flag on his chariot; Maha Dhatu or the One with huge and never exhausting deposits of minerals Under ground-Seas-and Mountains in His Srishti; Naikasaanu charaschalah or Maha Deva has a passion for jumping from one moutain peak to another; Avedaniyaaya or it is difficult to guess about him excepting through a proper Guru or Instructor; Aavedyah nor possible to do so who does not deserve; Sarva Gandha Sukhaavah or Shiva is an expert in sifting the fragrances of varied sources and of joys; Taaranah or ‘Taarayateeti Bhava Sagara’ or the Facilitator of crossing the Ocean of Samsara; Charanah or the Steps /Stanzas of Rigvedaadi Scriptures; Dhaata or the Nourisher ; Parithih or that which has boundaries viz. Bhumi; Pati Khecharah or The Lord of Birds viz. Garuda Deva; Samyogah or Shiva / Purusha in Union with Prakriti; Vardhanah or the One who is the Enabler of Growth; Vriddhah or of Old Age; Ati Vriddhah or the Ageless; Nityaatma or the Ever Lasting Soul; Sahaayascha or the One who is the Singular Source of support and assistance; Devasura Patih or the One who is the Chief of Devas and Asuras alike; Patih or He indeed is the Chief of all Beings in the Universe; Yuktascha or Resourceful and Ingenious; Yukta bahuscha or of capable hands; Devah or of the Swarupa of All Devas put together; Divi Suparvanah or He is the Maha Deva of Devas in Heavens; Ashaadhascha or the Symbol of Forbearance and Leniency; Sushaadhascha or Ever Forgiving; Skandhado or or the Branch of Tree or a Branch / Chapter of Human Knowledge; Harita or Green in complexion literally speaking but alternatively Shiva is stated to be adorable; Harah or Maha Deva the dismissal of difficulties; Vapu or the Seed of Creative Ecstasy; Avartamaana or Parivaramaana or He who rotates the lives of Beings again and again; Vasu Sheshthah or the Supreme Form of the Beings in Creation; Maha Pathah or The Path to Salvation);
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Shiroh Vimarshascha Sarva Lakshana lakshitah, Akshascha Ratha Yogi cha Sarva Yogi Maha Balah/ Samaamnaayosamaamnaayah Tirtha Devo Maha Rarathaah, Nirjeevo Jeevano Mantrah Shubhaaksho Bahukarkashah/ Ratnaprabhuto Raktaango Maharnava Vipaanavit, Moolam Vishaalohyamruto Vkaktaavyaktah Taponidhih/ Aarohanodhirohascha Sheela dhaari Maha Yashaah, Senaakalpo Maha Kalpo Yogo Yogakaro Harih/ Yugarupo Maha Rupo Maha Vahana Gahano Nagah, Nyaaya Nirvanah Apaadah Panditohyalopamah / Bahu Maalo Maha Maalah Shashi Hari Lochanah, Vistaaro Lavanah Kupah Kusumaangah Phalodayah/ Trinetrascha Vishannango Manividdho Jataadharah, Bindu Visargah Sumukhah Sharah Sarvaayudhah Sahah/ Nivedanah Sukhaajaatah Sugandhaaro Mahadhanuh, Gandhapaali cha Bhagavaanantah Sarvakarmanaam/ Santhaano Bahulo Baahuh Sakala Sarvochanah, Karasthaali Kapaalicha Urthva Samhanano Mahaan/ Chaatram Yantra Tantra Vikhyaato Loka Sarvaashrayah Kramah, Mundo Virupo Vikruto Dandi Kundi chikurvanah/ (100- 110);
(Shiroh or Parama Shiva’s head is of Yagjna Swarupa since Shruti is quoted as ‘Tasya Yajusheva shirah’; Vimarshacha or Shiva is critically analysed from all quarters as a Complete Entity; Sarva lakshana lakshta or the One who possesses all the required features to declare him universally; Akshaya or Eternal as He is Indestructible; Ratha Yogi or He is like the hinge-hold of the Samsara Chakra ; Sarva Yogi or the One who is keeps correlation and Union with one and all; Maha Balah or the Emblem of Extraordinary Power and Strength; Samaamnaaya or of the Swarupa of Vedas; Asamaamnaaya or Maha Deva is far beyond the reach of Vedas as the latter too failed to define Him correctly; Tirtha Devah or He who is present at all the Sacred Tirthas in varied Deva Swarupas as Shiva-Vshnu-Devis and so on; Maha Rathaah or the Greatest Charioteer in Trilokas; Nirjeeva or He is unaffected by Life or Lifelessness as He is beyond the realm of Life; Jeenavah or He is the Embodiment of Eternal Life; *Mantra or of Mantra Swarupa-
[*Mantras are Vedic Hymns or Prayers addressed to Devas in the form of Ruchas set up in Chhando Rupas or of Metrical Chantings often in musical cadences. Mantras are the Beeja Swarupas in Alphabetical Words as Invocation with concealed meanings targetted to specific Gods like Tri Murtis, Ganesha, Kumara, Indra, Nava Grahas, etc. besides Devis like Durga, Lakshmi, Sarasvati- Gayatri and so on. Mantras are also invocations addressed to specified Deities in connection with Vratas, Pujas, Tirtha Darshanas, Pitru Karmas, Agni Karyas, Rituals related to Samskaras, Yoga Practices, Astra-Shastra-Chikitsa uses and also of Negative and Destructive purposes too];
Shubhakshah or of Benign and Propitious Eyes; Bahu Karkasah or Maha Deva could also be of very merciless visage and demeanour; *Ratna Prabhhuto or He is surfeit with Nava Ratnas or *Nine Gems-
[* Manikya or Ruby worn for protection from Surya; Mukta or Pearl for Chandra; Pravala or Moonga for Mangala; Marakata or Emerald for Budha; Pushya raaga or Yellow Sapphire for Guru; Vajra or Diamond for Shukra; Neela or Blue Sapphire for Shani; Gomedha or Hessonite for Rahu and Vaidurya or Cat’s Eye for Ketu];
Ratnaangah or Maheshwara’s Body Parts are made of the various Ratnas; Maharnava Nipaata Vit or or the One who absorbs all the Sapta Samudras at the Time of Pralaya or the Great Extermination; Moolam or the Origin of Creation; Vishalah or Spread out all over the Universe; Amrita or of the Emblem of Nectar; Vyaktaavyaktah or Maha Deva is Realisable clearlyand at the same time Impossible to Guess about; Tapo nidhih or the Personification of deep meditation; Aaropahaanodhi ropana or Shiva is the One to lift up to Salvation and push down into mortal life- the Expressions are normally used in the context of Sangeetaabhyasa or the Practice of Music; Sheela dhari or the One who saves and benefits those with Virtue and Character; Maha Yashaah or of the Swarupa of Fame and Name; Sena Kalpah or He creates huge Armies by his mere thought; Maha Kalpah or Maha Deva is also of the Kaala Swarupa in engendering Kalpas one after another; Yogah or the Great Conduit between Yogis and Himself; Yoga Karah or the One who makes and promotes Yogis; Harih or of Vishnu Swarupa; Yuga Rupah or the Form of Chaturyugaas of Satya-Treta-Dwapara- Kali Yugas on repetitive basis; Maha Rupah or of Virat Swarupa containing the Srishti in Totality viz. Tri Lokas, Pancha Bhutas, Ashta Dikpalakas, Nava Grahas, Deva-Danava-Manushya- Yaksha-Gandharva-Kinnara-Kimpurusha-Apsaraadi Beings; Maha Vahana or the Great Vehicle carrying the Faithful devotees; Gahano or the One who enables ascent even to Skies; Nagah or of Bilwaadi Vriksha Swarupa; Nyaaya Nirvahanah or the Regulator and Enforcer of Justice and Integrity; Apadaaya or He who has no feet; Panditaaya or the Supreme Form of Pandita or the One who is Omni-Scient; Alopamaya or the One who is Stable and Fixed as a Mountain; Bahumaalah or the Wearer of countless garlands; Maha Maala or garlanded from neck to heels by innmumerable devotees; Shipivishtaaya or the One whose radiant rays are emitted all around; Sulochanah or of Bright and sparkling eyes; Vistaarah or his magnificence is spread across the entire Universe; *Lavanaaya or of the Form of one of the Sapta Samudras –
[*viz. the Kshaara Samudra surrounding the Jambu Dwipa, the other Oceans being Ikshu Rasa or of Sugar Cane Juice surrounding Plaksha Dwipa, Sura / Wine Samudra surrounding Salmali Dwipa, Ghrita / Ghee Samudra around Kusha Dwipa, Dahi / Curd Samudra , Ksheera / Milk Samudra around Krouncha Dwipa and Suswada / Sweet Water in between Shaka and Pushkala Dwipas];
Kupah or Shiva is present in a huge Lavan Samudra or a tiny Well of Salt water; Kusumangah or Shiva has the Physical Parts that are soft and fragrant at once; Phalodayah or of fresh and tasty fruits; Trinetrascha or of Three Eyes representing Satwika-Raajasika- Tamasika Gunas; *Vishannangah or of Ashta Swarupa Murti or of Eight Subtle Murthis of Shiva –
[*Ashta Murtis include Pancha Bhutas of Prithivi-Aaapa or Water-Tejas or Agni-Vayu or Air-Akaasha or Sky as also Surya- Chandra and Yagjna Purusha];
Manividdha or Shiva has his ears pierced to enable him to wear ear-rings; Jataadharah or He who wears matted hair; Bindu Swarupa or a dot representing Nothingness or the starting point of the Universe; Visarga or Shiva assuming activity before Creation; Sumukhah orof Benign Face; Shara Sarvayudha or Maha Deva is possessive of Powerful Bow and arrows besides several other weapons of great might and speed; Sahah or fortitude and capability; Nivedana or The Acceptor of Devotional Offerings; Sukha jataah or the emblem of happiness; Sugandhaaro or the perfonification of fragrance; Maha Dhanuh or the Swarupa of the most potent Bow popularly as Shiva Dhanu that demolished Asuras aplenty; Gandha paali or the One who produces and preserves multitude variety of fragrances; Bhagavaan or ‘ Bhagamaishwarya mahaatmya Jnaana Vairagya Yonishu’ or The Epitome of Prosperity-Magnificence-Wisdom-Indifference of Worldly Matters; Aantah or Shankara Bhagavan is Endless; Salakshanah or is the Personification of Ideal Traits; Uthaanah or He is highly analytical, versatile and patient; Sarva Karmanam or He is the One who is the Origin of all the Actions; Santaano or of the Rupa of Kalpa Vriksha yielding endless progeny; Bahulo Baahuh or of Innumerable hands to reach the devotees; Sakalah or the Composite Form of Chandra Kalaas or the features of the waxing and waning Moon; Sarva Lochanah or He views every event and happening with his eyes; Karasthaaliney or He who carries in his hand the Bhojana Paatra; Kapaainey He also carries the Kapala of Brahma’s fifth head as severed by him in view of Shiva’s Brahma Hatyaa Sin; Urthwa Simhasanah or Maha Deva is the Occupant of the Highest Throne Ever; Mahan or He is of splendid Glory; Chhatram or He has the broadest umbrella to save his devotees from the onslaught of hard difficulties hitting them in the form of severe rains; Yantra Tantra Suvikhyaato Bhagavan Shiva is reputed as the Master of Yantras and Tantras; Loka Sarvaashrayah Kramah or Maha Deva’s foot steps occupy the Tri Lokas; Mundaya or ‘Mandita Shiraya’ or of Shaven Head; Virupah or of Weird Form; Vikruta or of Frightening Form as a Deceptive Profile; Dandi or the Holder of a Baton; Kundi or the iCarrier of a bowl on his hands; Vikurvanah or He is not pleased only by performing Rituals alone without Shradda-Bhakti or dedication and devotion);
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Haryakshah Kakubho Vajri Shata Jihwah Sahasrapaat, Sahasra Baahu Sarvangah Sharanyah Sarva Loka krit/ Pavitram Tri Madhurmantrah Kanishthah Krishna Pingalah, Brahma danda vinirmatmaa Shataghni Paasha Shaktimaan/ Padma garbho Maha garbho Brahma garbho Jalodbhavah, Gabhastih Brahmakrud Brahma Brahmavid Brahmano gatih/ Ananta Rupaschaikatmaa Tigma tejaah Swayambhuvah, Urthwagaatmaa Pashupatih Vaaaramhaa Manojavah/ Chandani Padma naalaagrah Sura bhyuttarano narah, Karnikaara Mahaasragvi Neela moulih Pinaaka bhrut/ Umapatih Umaakaanto Jaahnavi Bhrigu Madhavah, Varo Varaaho Varado Varenyah Sumahaswanah/ Maha Prasado Damanah Shatruhaa Sweta Pingalah, Preetatmaa Paramatmaa cha rayataatmaa Pradhaana dhrut/ Sarva Paarshwa Mukhah Tryaksho Dharma Saadhaarano Varah,Charaacharaatmaa Sukshamaa Amrito Govrisheswarah/ Saadharshih Vasuh Aaadityo Vivaswaan Savitaamritah,`Vyaasah Sargah Susamkshepo Vistar ah Paryavo Narah/ Rituh Samvatsaro Maanah Pakshah Samakhyaa Samaapanah, Kalaa kaashthaa Lavaa Maatraa Muhurtaah Kshapaah Kshanaah/ (111-120);
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Haryakshaaya or of the attention of Maha Deva by way of the looks of a Loin’s Eyes; Kakubho or ‘Kakubho Veenaankerjuna padeyh’ or the Stringed Instrument or Veena made of the bark of Arjuna Tree-another explanation of Kakubha is that of Dasha Dishas or the Ten Directions of the Four major directions of North-East-South-West; the Sub-directions viz. North East, South East, South West and North West and Upper and Lower Lokas; Vajri or Shiva like diamond is indestructible; Shata Jihwa or Shiva has hundred tongues like Agni has Sapta Jihwas or Tongues; Sahasra paada or of Thousand Feet; Sahasra Murthaa or of Thousand Heads; Devendra or Shiva as the alternate Swarupa of Indra; Sarva Deva Mayah or He is the Manifestation of all the Devas; Guruh or the Supreme Teacher of all Beings in the Worlds; Sahasra Baahu or of Thousand Hands; Sarvangah or the display of the physical limbs of one and all; Sharanyah or the Ultimate Refuge for Protection; Sarva Loka krut or the Designer, Architect and Builder of the Tri Lokas; Pavitram ot the quintessence of Sanctity and Purity; Tri Madhuh or three types of Sweetness comprising Milk, Sugar candy juice and honey which is of the liking of Shiva for Lingaabhisheka; *Mantrah or Mantras of Rudra Namaka Chamaka comprising-
[*‘Om Namastey Astu Bhagavanvishweshwaraaya Maha Devaaya Traimbakaaya Tripurantakaaya Trikaagnikaalaaya Kaalaagni Rudraaya Neela Kanthaaya Mruyunjyaaya Sarveshwaraaya Sadaa Shivaaya Shrimanmahaa devaaya Namah etc.’ ]
Kanishthah or the One who is concealed in the Minutest Form as against the Virat Swarupa: ‘Namo Jyeshthaayacha Kanishthaayacha’; Krishna Pingalah or of the Unique Mix of Krishna-Pingala or Bluish -Red complexions: ‘Krishnah kanthey Anyatra Pingalo Lohitah’- Maha Deva is Blue Throated but other-wise steel coloured; Brahmadanda vinirmitah or the Shiva who constructed and provided the Danda or the Baton with which Brahma performs the Unique Task of Srishti / Creation; Shataghnah or The One who carries Hundreds of ‘Paashsas’ or the distructive nooses; Shaktimaan or the Sourcer of Shakti or Extraordinary Power and Energy; Padma Garbhah or Shiva is the Alternate Swarupa of Brahma or the Lotus-Born; Maha Garbha or the Enveloper of the Universe within Himself; Brahma Garbha or The Creator of Brahma along with Vedas; Jalodbhabah or the One who originally materialised Maha Maya in the Form of Water; Ghabhastih or Shiva is like the Abundant Fund of Radiance of the thousands of Suryas; Brahma krit or as the Personifcation of Maha Vidya or the Supreme Knowledge he Originated Vedas as amplified by Brahma; Brahma or the Para Brahma; Brahma krit or He enabled Vedas to take shape; Brahmano gatih or Maha Deva is the Final Goal to all Brahmanas as they are blessed with the Practice and Analysis of Vedas and Vedangas; Ananta Rupah or Maha Deva is of Endless Forms of Splendour and Glory; Naikatmaa or of multitude of manifestations; Tigmajasswayambhuvah or Brahma the creator got shocked and stunned at Maha Deva’s Magnificence; Urthwagaatma or the One who far surpassed the Totality of Creation-the Universe-Brahma and all; Pashupati or Shiva indeed is the paramount of all Beings from Brahma downward; Vaataramha or the One Faster than Vayu; Manmojava or Shiva is in fact as instant as one’s thoughts; Chandani or Paraa Shiva enjoys the coolness and sweet smell of Sandal wood paste; *Padma naalaagra or the Most Complex Profile of Maha Shiva was impossible to Brahma and Vishnu to visualize-
[*When Brahma got materialised from the Lotus Head that sprang up from Vishnu’s navel and he challenged Vishnu’s superiority, there emerged with profound Omkara Shabda a massive Shiva Linga and both Brahma and Vishnu could not fathom the top and bottom of the Linga and evenually realised that indeed there was a Supreme Energy beyond their mutual comprehension viz. Maha Deva];
*Surabhyuttarano or Shiva tarnished the excellence of Surabhi –
[* Surabhi the celestial Cow uttered a lie as a witness that Brahma realised the top of Shiva Linga in the quest for seniority over Vishnu while the latter confessed that he failed to reach the bottom of Shiva Linga; Shiva punished Surabhi for her misleading evidence and gave a curse that Surabhi’s progeny would lose their Devatwa.]
Narah or while Brahma and Vishnu were clueless about thtop and bottom of Shiva Linga, what are mere Maanavas!
Karnikara Mahasragwi or the Huge Neck of Parama Shiva is garlanded by the flowers of Karnikaara; Neela mouli or Maha Deva carries a crown around his ‘Jata Juta’or matted hair full of Ganga whose waters sparlke like blue sapphires; Pinaka bhrut or He carries the Pinaka Bow and arrows which he materialised to terminate Tripurasuras ; Umapati or Shiva is the husband of Shiva; Uma Kanta or He is the Brightness and Shakti of Devi Uma; *Jahnavi or Shiva is of Ganga Swarupa –
[* As Bhagiratha prayed to Parama Shiva to allow the release of a small quantity of Ganga from His matted hair, the latter released it but the roar of the descending flow was unbearable to Maharshi Jahnu in his Tapasya and thus he drank it up. Devas and Bhagirath prayed to Rishi Jahnu who released the Flow back from his ears and thus Ganga is popular as Jahnavi];
*Bhrigu Madhava or the Alternate Form of Bhrigu Maharshi –
*The Rishi visited Brahma-Vishnu-Maheshwaras to test their greatness and visited Vaikuntha to meet Narayana; the latter ignored Bhrigu who was busy in the company of Devi Lakshmi; Bhrigu felt humiliated and cursed Narayana to get separated from Devi Lakshmi who too should descend from Vaikuntha to Earth since she was the cause for Narayana’s indifference to the Sage. This background is stated to be the ‘raison d’tre’ for the Avatara of Vishnu and Lakshmi in Bhu Loka as Venkate-shwara and Devi Padmavati.]
Varah or Swarupa of Shiva the Cause and Causation of boons to his devotees; Varaaha or of Vishnu’s Avatara to save Devi Bhumi and Vedas from the clutch of the Demon Hiranyaksha’s sinking them to Rasatala; Varada or Shiva is of the Swarupa of Varas or Boons; Varenya or the Most Sought after or the Best; Sumahaswanah or the One with resonant Voice ever chanting Vedas; Maha Prasadah or the Unique Bestower of Favours; Damanah or the vanquisher of the Vicious; Shatruhaor the destroyer of opponents; Sweta Pingala or of the Artha Naareeshwara Rupa with half of the Physique being white and the oher half being red; Preetatma or He who is loved and venerated by all; Paramatma or the Supreme Soul; Prayatatma or of Transparent and blemishless Soul; Pradhanadhrut or He assumes all signifcant features of Tri Gunas; Sarva Parshwa Mukha or Multi Faced and Faceted; Tryaksha or Three Eyes visioning the Past-Present and Future; Dharma Saadhaarano Varah or the One who normally allows such favours as one deserves on the basis of one’s own Karma or the Past Deeds; Charaacharaatma or He is One who applies the same criteria and weightages to Creatures that are animate or inanimate to decide their fate; Sookshatmaa or The One who permeates among all the Beings in Tiny Swaupas; Amrita or of the Everlasting and Indestructible Form ; Govrisheswarah or of the manifestation of Cows and Bulls alike equallly which represent Satvika and Tamasika Gunas alike; *Sadhyarshivasuradityo Viwaswan Savitamrita or of the Swarupa of Sadhyas, Vasus and Adityas, Viwaswan, Savita and Amshuman –
[*In the process of Creation materialised by Sankalpa or Mere Thought- Darshana or Vision- and Sparsha or Touch, Daksha Prajapati initiated the method of Man-Woman contact and among Prajapati’s several daughters married to Dharma alone were ten in number who gave birth among others to Fourteen Vishwadevas, Thirteen Sandhya Devatas, Eight Vasus, Eleven Rudras, Twelve Adityas, Fortynine Maruts and so on. The Vasus were named Aapa, Dhruva, Soma, Dhara, Anila, Anala, Pratyusha, and Prabhasa; the Twelve Adityas in the ongoing Vaivaswata Manvantara are Indra, Dhata, Bhaga, Twashta, Mitra, Varuna, Aryama, Viviswan, Savita, Pusha, Amshuman and Vishnu.]
Vyasah or Shiva assumes the Form of Veda Vyasa who not only concised Brahma Sutras but also presented Puranas in great detail; Paryavo narah or Maha Deva has spread all out among the Beings; Rituh or Parama Shiva is the Six Seasons; Samvatsarah or He is the Cyclical revolution of Years called Prabhava, Vibhava and so on; Maasah or the Chaitraadi Months; Pakshah or the Shukla and Krishna Pakshas / Fortnights; Sankhyaa Samaapanah or the conclusion of the numericals; Kala-Kashtha-Lava-Maatra-Muhurtha- Kshapa-Kshana or Parameshwara is the Kaalamaana comprising Kalas or the tiniest measurement of Time-Kashtha : ‘Ashtaadasha nimeshastu’ Kashtha or eight seconds; Lava : ‘Lesha maatra Kaala rupah’ or Lava as hundred Tritis; Maatra : Hraswaajucchaarana kaala rupa; Muhurta : Muhurteydwighatikaatmaka Kaala Rupa; Kshapa or Raatri Rupa; and Kshana or ‘Kshanastrimshak Kaala Rupa’);
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Vishwa Kshetram Prajaa beejam Lingamaadyah Sunirgamah, Sadasadvyakta mavyaktam Pita Maata Pitaamahah, Swargadwaram Prajaadwaaram Moksha dwaaram Trivishtapam/ Nirvaanam hlaadanam chaiva Brahma Lokah Paraa Gatih, Devasura Gururdevo devaasura namaskritah/ Devasura Maha Maatro Devasuraganaashrayah , DevasuraGanaadhyaksho Devasura Ganaagrahnih/ Devadi Devo Devarshih Devaasura Varapradah, Devaasureshwaro Vishno Devasura Maheshwarah/ Sarva Devamayochintyo Devataatmaathma Sambhavah, Utpatti Vikramo Vai Virajodyo Neerajomarah/ Eedyo Hasteeswaro Vyaaghro Deva Simho Maharshabhah, Vibudhogavara Sukshmahh Sarvadevah Tapomayah/ Suyuktah Shobhano Vajree Paapaanaam Prabhavovyayah, Guhah Kanto Nijah Sargah Pavitram Sarva Paavanah/ Shringi Shriga Priyo Babhru Rajarajo Niraamayah, Abhiraamh Suragano Viramah Sarva Saadhanah/ Lalaataaksho Vishwadevo Harino Brahma Varchasah, Sthaavaraanaam Patischaiva Niyamendriya Vardhanah/ Siddhaarthah Siddha Bhutaarthochintyah Satyavratah Shuchih, Vrataadhipah Param Brahma Bhaktaanugra Kaarakah/ Vimukto MuktaTejaascha ShrimaanShri Vardhano Jagat/ (121-131).
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Vishwa Kshetram or Shiva is the base on which the Universe is materialised; Praja Beejam or the Great Seed from which all the Beings including humanity springs from; Lingamaadyah or Shiva Linga is the Maha Tatwa and the Primary Supreme Consciousness; Sunirgamah or That Shiva enabled the emergence of the Universe; Sadasadavyaktamavyktam or Maha Deva thus manifested himself as a magnificent manifestation which is Realisable and at the same time impossible to Realise; Pitaa Maataa Patiaamahah or that Manifestaion called Maha Deva is at once the father-mother-grand father of Srishti; Swarga dwaram or Shiva is the Entry Door to Heavens; Praja dwaram or He is the Door of Samsara full of desires, aspirations, fears, doubts, efforts, achievements and failures; Moksha dwaram or He is also ineed the entry point of Moksha; Trivishtapa or Maha Deva is the Provider the Three Paths of Swarga, Mrityu and Paatala Lokas; Nirvaanam or He is the Swarupa of Nirvana or the Ultimate Absolute; Aahlaadam or He is the Profile of Pure Bliss; Brahma Lokam or He is the Swarupa of Satya Loka; Paraa gatih or He is the Path of Attainment; Devsura Vinirmata or He is the Originator of Devas and Asuras alike; Devasura paraayanah or He is the Objective for which both Devas and Asuras are deeply concerned with; Devasura Gururdevah or He is the Inimitable Teacher to Devas and Asuras alike; Devah or ‘Devayati Devaasuraan Vijigishayateeti Devah’ or He is the Inspirer of the Actions of one and all with the features of Devas as also of Daityas; Devaasura Namaskritah or He indeed is revered and worshiped by both Devas and Asuras; Devasura Maha Maatro or He is the one like Devas and Asuras seek to understand and follow as a Pramaana or the Full Belief; Devasura ganaashrayah or the DevaGanas and Asura Ganas seek to surround Him alike; Devasura Ganaadhyaksho or Maha Deva is the Commandor-in- chief of both Devas and Asuras; Devasura Ganaagrani or He is interestingly the Senior Most of the Devaasura Armies; Devadi Deva or Shiva is the Supreme of all the Devas; Devarshih or He is the Maharshi of Devas too; Devasura Varapradah or Shiva is not hesitant to bestow boons to both Devas and Asurasalike apparently based on his own considerations; Devaasureswarah or He is the Paramount God that Devaasuras accord devotion and dedication to; Vishnoh or ‘Vishati Devaasura sabhaam Mohini Rupa Praveshayateeti Vishnuh’ ie. He entered the Congregation of both Devas and Asuras in the Form of Mohini Devi to distribute ‘Amrita’ thus called Vishnu; Devasura Maheswarah or both Devas and Asuras concede and firmly believe in strongly in Maha Deva; Sarva Deva Mayah or Maha Deva is the One who is full of all the Devas; Achintya or Unimaginable or too complex to comprehend; Devataatma or Soul of Devas; Atmaatma sambhavah or He is Self-Manifested; Utpattivikramo or He appeared on his own even before he spread out the Tri Lokas; Vaidyo or the Omniscient; Virajo or the Transclucent; Ni rajah or without ‘Vikaras’ or features; Amarah or Everlasting and Eternal; Eedyo or ‘Yajanaarhah’ or the One who is the ideal one appropriate to be worshipped through the medium of Yagjnas; *Hastreeshwara or the One who is worshipped at ‘Kalahasti’ Temple-
[* Sthala Purana narrated the Significance of ‘Shri Kala Hasteeshwara’ Temple at the Sacred and popular Temple where Parameshwara granted Moksha to a Spider, a Snake and an Elephant; the devout Spider desired to save the Swayambhu Shiva Linga from rain and dust and thus wove a thick net in the Linga; an elephant worshipped the Shiva Linga by throwing water and Bilwa Leaves from its trunk by way of Abhisheka and Puja; but a Sarpa which also prayed daily to Mahadeva felt that some body was hurting the Shiva Linga by throwing water and leaves waited and found that an elephant was spoiling the Place by throwing leaves and mud and thus attacked the elephant which trampled the serpent to death.Maha Deva granted Moksha to all the three species and eventually the Place attained fame drawing huge crowds at a Temple built there as Shri (Spider)-Kaala (Serpent)-Hasti (Elephant)-Ishwara]; Vyaghra or Shiva takes over the Form of a Tiger which is the Carrier of Durga Devi; Deva Simhah or Shiva is a Lion among Devas; Maharshabha or Shiva assumes th Form of the illustrious Nandeeshwara; Vibhudhaagraya or the Foremost among the Wisest; Sukshmah or Paramatma is so minute that is he not perceptible; Swarga Deva or ‘Swargasya Deva Swami’or the Fabulous Chief of all the Devas in Swarga; Tapomayah or the One with profusion of Tapas / Meditation; Suyuktah or Shiva is in a Samadhi State of Self-Realisation perpetually; Shobhanaaya or Magnificent; Vajri or armed with the Vajra weapon; Paapaanaam Prabhavah or Shiva is affected by sins and sinners; Avyayah or Undiminishable; Guhah or the Swarupa of Kartikeya; Kantah or an Epithet of Kumara the favourite or of Parvati Devi; Nija Sargah or the One actually born to himself that is Kumara- another explanation isthat the entire Brahmanda is Shiva’s own Creation; Pavitram or the Essence of Sacredness; Sarva Pavanah or He who purifies one and all when approached; Shringi or the Kailasa Shikhira Swarupa; Shringapriyh or Shiva is ‘Meru Madhya Shikhiram Priyah’ or is highly fond of the Mount of Meru Parvata; *Babhru or of reddish brown colour which is an epithet of Shiva:
[* An alternative explanation is about Babhruvahana the son of Chitranga and Arjuna; the legend was that when Yudhishtara of Pandavas released a Sacrificial Horse under the Guardianship of Arjuna to perform Ashwamedha Yagna as symbolic of the Superiority among the contemporary Kings, the horse entered the Kingdom of Babhruvahana; understandably the latter let in the Horse into his territory with respect for Arjuna. But Arjuna chided his son and demanded the son to fight but not submit meekly; this enraged Babhruvahana and in a fierce battle that ensued, the son severed Arjuna’s head. Eventually an Apsara named Uluchi who was the then Chitranga restored back Arjuna to life!]
Rajarajah or Shiva is indeed the Supreme King among Kings; Niramayah or Parama Shiva is Clean and Blemishless; Abhiramaaya or the Source of Pleasantness; Suragaganaya or of the Swarupa of Groups of Devas; Viraamaya or His the rest period between two significant happenings viz. Extermination and Creation; Sarva Sadhanah or The Achiever of all kind of Deeds; Lalaaakshah or He is unique with an eye on His forehead; Vishwa Dehah or the entire Universe constitutes His Body; Harinah or the Emblem of White Purity; Brahma Varchhasah or the Radiance arising of the Essence of Vidya and Tapas or Knowledge and Deep Meditation; Sthaavaraanaam Pataye or of the Swarupa of the Chief of Immovable Beings in Creation like mountains and trees; Niyamendriya Vardhanah or the Encourager of those who practise Control of Physical and Sensory Organs; Siddhaarthah or the Practitioner of the quest for Truth ; Siddha Bhutartha or the Accomplisher of Moksha Sadhana; Achintya or Incomprehensible; Satya Vrata or the Embodiment of Truth; Shuchih or the One who possesses ‘Bahyaantara Shuchi’ or Physical and Internal Cleanliness; Vaaadhipah or the Chief of Vratas viz. their Conception, Methodology, Practice, Encourager of Others to practise, and finally the Enjoyer of the Fruits of theVratas; Param Brahma or the Nirguna-Niraakara-Niraamaya-Niranjana-Nirlepa-Shaswata- Adwandya Brahma- the Everlasting Spring of Bliss; Bhaktaanugraha kaaraka or the Cause and Causation of Devotion and Total Dedication; Vimukta or the One who enables the Beings to slice and destroy the chains and restraints of Samsaara; Mukta Tejaasta or the One who is the Eternal Flame of Mukti or Moksha; Shrimaan the Personification of the Wealth of Sat-Chit-Ananda’; Shri Vardhano Jagat or The Ever Lasting Universe in the quest for Truth and Realisation.)
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Phala Shruti:
Sage Upamanyu who recited the above Sahasra Naamas of Shiva to Lord Krishna concluded theRecitation with appropriate eulogies to Maha Deva traced the Origin of the Shiva Sahasra Naamaas as follows:
( Iti Devendra Kalpena Bhagavan Sadasatpatih, Kritti Vaasaastutah Krishna Tandinaa Shubha Shuddinaa/ Stavametam Bhagavato Brahmaa Swayamadhaarayat, Geeyatecha na Buddhyeta Brahma Shankara Sannidhou/ Idam Punyam Pavitram cha Sarvadaa Paapa naashanam, Yogadam Mokshadam chaiva Swargadam toshadam tathaa/ Evametatpathantey ya Eka Bhaktyaatu Shankjarey, Yaa gatih Sankhya Yogaanaam Vrajanteytaam Gatim tathaa/ Stavamevam prayanena Sadaa Rudrasya Sannidhou, Abdamekam Chareydbhaktah Praapnuyaaddeepsitam phalam/ Etadrahasyam Paramam Brahmano hridi samthitam, Brahmaaprovaacha Rudrebhyo Rudrebhyastandi maagamat/ Mahataa Tapasaa Tandinaa Brahma Sadmani, Tandih provaacha Shukrayaa Goutamaayacha Bhargavah/ Vaivaswataaya Manavey Goutamah cha Bhargavah, Vaivaswataaya Manavey Gautamah praaa Mnadhava/ Narayanaya Saadhyaaya Manurishtaaya Dhimatey, Yamaha Praha Bhagavan Saadhyo Naraayanochyutah/ Naachiketaaya Bhagavaanaagha Vaivaswato Yamah, Markandeyaaya Vaarshneya Naachiketobhyabhaasata/ Markandeyaanmayaa Praapto Niyamena Janardana, Tavaaopayah mamitraghnatswam dadyaamhyavishrutam/ Swargamaarogya maayushyam Dhanyam Vedena Sammitam, NaasyaVighnam Vikurvanti Daanavaa Yaksha Raakshasaah/ Piscaacaa Yadudhaanaa vaa Guhyakaa Bhujangaapi/ Yah Pathet Shuchih Paartha Brahmachaari Jitendriyah, Abhagna Yogo Varshamtuh Ashwamedha Phalam labhet/ )
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(Lord Krishna! Maharshi Dandi who was as pronounced as Indra himself had the distinction of glorifying Maha Deva who was called Krittivaasa and the Epitome of Auspiciousness and Purity. Originally, Lord Brahma was stated to have eulogised with the Sahasra naamas of Shiva in the latter’s own presence with great sincerity. This Prayer would result in demolition of sins and blemishes, Yoga pradaana and Swarga prapti. Whosoever recites the Sahasranaama with devotion and faith would be bestowed with what Sankhya Yoga could achieve and what Shiva Saannidhya might result in. Lord Brahma taught this Secret Prayer to Indra who in turn imparted to Lord Yama. Yama Dharma Raja communicated it to Dwadhasha Rudras. In the Presence of Brahma, the Brahma Putra Thandi leant the Sahasra naama and Thandi taught the same to Shukracharya the Danava Guru. This Sacred Text was then instructed to Goutama Rishi who further trained Satya Narayana Rishi. It was passed on to Vaiwaswata Manu, Nachiketa Muni, Markandeya. Now Upamanyu Rishi recited the Illustrious Shiva Sahasra Naama Bhagvan Shri Krishna. This Sahasra naama is stated to be as significant as Vedas, Swarga, excellent health, longevity and Prosperity. Its constant recitation would ward off the troubles from Asura-Yaksha-Rakshasa- Piscacha-Yadudhana-Guhyaka-Sarpas. Krishna in turn affirmed to Yuddhishtara that whoso ever recites the Sahasranaama with clean body and heart without break would secure Ashwamedha Phala or the fruit of performing Horse Sacrifice.)
Further to what Lord Krishna told Yudhisthara, Maharshi Vaishampayana further affirmed as follows:
‘Dusswapna Dusshakuna Durgati Durmanasya, Durbhiksa Durvyasana Dussah Durvyasamsi, Utpaatataapa Visha bheeti masad grahatim Vyaadhimscha naashayatu tey Jagataamadheesha/’
( May Lord of the Universe Maha Deva safeguard me from unpleasant dreams, bad omens, wrong ways of Life, famine like situations, corrupt habits, intolerant happenings, untoward events, fear out of natural disasters, dangers of poisonous nature, evil planetary influences, diseases and so on as Shiva Sahasra naamas are recited always!)
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Ishaanaam Sarva Vidyaanaam Ishwarh Sarva Bhutaanaam,
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p style=”text-align: justify;”>Brahmaadi Patih Brahmanodhipatih Brahmaa Shivomey Astu Sadaa Shivom/
