Shiva: The Auspicious One — Stories, Symbols, and Teachings of Mahadeva

He is called the Destroyer - and his name means "the Auspicious One." Shiva: The Auspicious One is an unhurried, warm-hearted introduction to the most paradoxical of the great deities of Sanatan Dharma - the naked ascetic on the frozen peak who wants nothing, and the tender husband and father who can refuse his devotees nothing. This second book in the Meeting the Divine series moves gently from story to meaning: - His story - Shiva and Parvati, the family of Kailash, and the great episodes that reveal his heart. - His form - how to read his sacred image symbol by symbol, and the meaning of the formless lingam. - The cosmic and the absolute - the dance of Nataraja, Ardhanarishvara, Shiva as Adiyogi, the first teacher of yoga, and Mahakala, the lord of time. - The sacred landscape - a pilgrimage across the twelve Jyotirlingas, the city of Kashi, and Mount Kailash. - Living with Shiva - Mahashivratri, his day of worship, his mantras, and how a person today might keep his company. Every Sanskrit verse is given in Devanagari, transliteration, and translation, so nothing is taken on faith. Written for readers who want more than a collection of legends but are not looking for a scholarly or ritual text, it is clear without being shallow, and reverent without a trace of superstition. Behind every fierce form is the same steady grace. At the heart of the roaring dance is a calm face, one hand raised, saying the only thing any of us most needs to hear: fear not. Meet Mahadeva.