Jul 5, 2023, 09:23 AM IST

Rudra to Neelkanth:10 Beautiful names of Lord Shiva

Mahipal Chouhan

Mahadev: It means "Great God" or "Supreme God." It signifies the immense power and divine nature of Lord Shiva.

Neelkanth: This name translates to "Blue-throated." It refers to the story when Lord Shiva drank poison during the churning of the cosmic ocean, causing his throat to turn blue.

Shankara: It is a popular name for Lord Shiva, derived from the word "Shankha," which means "conch." Shankara symbolizes the destroyer of evil and the one who brings auspiciousness.

Rudra: Rudra represents the fierce and wrathful form of Lord Shiva. It signifies his role as the god of storms, tempests, and destruction.

Trilochana: This name means "Three-eyed." Lord Shiva is often depicted with a third eye on his forehead, representing his heightened perception, knowledge, and inner vision.

Nataraja: Nataraja translates to "King of Dance." It symbolizes Lord Shiva's cosmic dance, known as the Tandava, which represents creation, preservation, and destruction.

Ardhanarishvara: This name combines the words "Ardha" (half) and "Nari" (woman), and "Ishvara" (lord). Ardhanarishvara is a composite form of Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati, representing the union of masculine and feminine energies.

Shambhu: Shambhu refers to Lord Shiva as the "Self-Blessed" or the "Self-Auspicious" one. It signifies his state of eternal bliss and divine self-sufficiency.

Pashupati: Pashupati means "Lord of all creatures." It emphasizes Lord Shiva's role as the protector and guardian of all living beings.

Bholenath: Bholenath translates to "Innocent Lord." It depicts Lord Shiva's childlike innocence, simplicity, and unconditional love towards his devotees.