Hinduism's Shiva: One of the 5 Primary Forms of God

ALPHA OMEGA ARTS
By TAHLIB

Shiva as lord of the dance (Los Angeles County Museum of Art)

The core beliefs of Hinduism are that there is only one Supreme Being, Brahman. Hindus pursue knowledge of truth and reality; strive for moral order; and promote tolerance. Brahman is personified in a variety of gods and goddeses including : Vishnu, Devi or Durga, Surya, Ganesha and Shiva the destroyer, transformer or dancer. It is Shiva who was also manisfested in another form named "Rudreshwar." Devotees of Shiva are called "Saivites." According to the Hindu Blog: Rudreshwar "got the name after He annhilated Gajasura – the elephant and wore its skin. Rudreshwar appeared in the form of Shivling at Kashi. This is mentioned in the Kashi Khand in the Skanda Purana. The popular belief is that those offering prayers to Rudreshwar will attain moksha or liberation." Complex? Sure, but just remember the core beliefs and enjoy the dance.