Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Siva explained
This chapter introduces Siva, the third person of the Hindu triad, as the personification of the destroying principle.
What happens
This chapter introduces Siva, the third person of the Hindu triad, as the personification of the destroying principle. It explains that despite being third in the triad, Siva (also called Mahadeva) has more worshippers than Brahma or Vishnu, and that in the Puranas his destructive power is not emphasized until the end of the universe. Instead, Siva represents regeneration. The chapter contrasts the sects of Vishnu and Siva, noting that Vishnu's followers are generally more tender toward life and abstain from animal food, while Siva's followers practice a more cruel worship.
Themes in this chapter
Mortality and Immortality
Siva embodies the destroying principle that ends the universe, yet he is also associated with regeneration, highlighting the cycle of death and rebirth.
Key passages
“Siva is the third person of the Hindu triad. He is the personification of the destroying principle.”
Siva is the third god in the Hindu trinity and represents the force of destruction.
Introduces Siva's role as the destroyer in the Hindu triad.
“In the Puranas ... no allusion is made to the original power of this god as a destroyer; that power not being to be called into exercise till after the expiration of twelve millions of years, or when the universe will come to an end; and Mahadeva (another name for Siva) is rather the representative of regeneration than of destruction.”
According to the Puranas, Siva's destructive power is not mentioned as active; it will only be used after twelve million years or at the end of the universe, and instead Siva, also called Mahadeva, symbolizes renewal rather than destruction.
Clarifies that Siva's destructive aspect is deferred, emphasizing his regenerative role.