The Shiv Purana is one of the major Mahapuranas of Hinduism, dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva. It is a key text for devotees and scholars alike, offering profound insights into cosmology, creation, divine law, dharma, and the nature of the Supreme Being. It also reveals the relationship between Shiva, the other deities, and the ultimate source of all creation, often referred to as Sadashiv or Kaal Brahma.
The Shiv Purana consists of multiple sections, including the Rudra Samhita, Shiva Samhita, and Koti Rudra Samhita, among others. It narrates the origin of the universe, the lineage of the gods, the exploits of Lord Shiva, and the interplay of divine powers. The text also provides detailed guidance on rituals, worship, penance, and the path to liberation (Moksha).
According to the Rudra Samhita (Chapter 6), after universal dissolution (Pralaya), only darkness remained, with the formless Sat Brahma as the eternal, supreme entity. This Param Brahman, through its Leela Shakti (divine power), manifested in the form of Bhagwan Sadashiv, who is both the source and sustainer of all creation.
Sadashiv is inseparable from Parashakti, the supreme feminine energy, also known as Tridev Janani, the mother of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. Through this divine power, the universe and all living beings were created, and even the highest deities rely on Her for their roles.
The Shiv Purana reveals that Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra are all created beings, born from Sadashiv, and not the ultimate supreme themselves.
This clearly establishes that the Trimurti—Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra—are mortal in essence, bound by Gunas, and subordinate to the supreme, eternal Kaal.
The Shiv Purana emphasizes the importance of recognizing the ultimate reality beyond the visible universe. Worshiping Shiva, performing penance, and understanding the divine play (Leela) are paths to spiritual liberation. The text also underscores that even deities must follow the will of the Supreme, highlighting the centrality of Sadashiv as the source of all cosmic functions.
The Shiv Purana is not only a guide to worship and devotion but also a philosophical treatise revealing the hierarchy of divine power. It teaches that Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra, despite their mighty roles, are empowered and directed by the supreme Sadashiv. This Purana emphasizes that true knowledge of God lies in understanding the source of all creation and surrendering to the supreme, eternal force.