Why Both Gods and Asuras Worship Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva, the most auspicious god of the Hindu mythologies, is the only god who is adored by both Devas (Gods) and Asuras (Demons). Both groups' worship signifies the grandeur and extensive universe of Shiva and makes him a symbol of equality and non-discriminatory nature in the cosmic scheme of creation. But why do Lord Shiva incite worship as well as horror among gods as well as demoniac entities both? Let's find out about the reason of this interesting part of Hindu mythology.

Nature of Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva is most typically depicted as the perfect ascetic, meditating in the Himalayas, unconcerned with worldly affairs. But he is also destroyer of all that is evil, transformer of form, bestower of new life. His own nature is above the duality of good and evil, and so he is an unjudgable god. His neutrality and detachment make him the focus of all worship, regardless of his nature or activity.

Symbol of Balance and Neutrality

Shiva is illustrated as balance in Hindu cosmology. He belongs to the divine trinity along with Brahma, the creator, and Vishnu, the preserver. Brahma and Vishnu have defined roles, but the role of Shiva is ambiguous – he destroys to create. His flexibility and embracement of anything that transpires make him a favorite personality among both Devas and Asuras.

Stories from Hindu Mythology

There have been numerous stories from Hindu scriptures that demonstrate why both Devas and Asuras require blessings of Lord Shiva.

The Story of Ravana

Ravana, the mighty king of Lanka and the ardent follower of Shiva, is a case in point. Although an Asura himself, Ravana's piety towards Shiva was unparalleled. As per the myth, Ravana had written the Shiva Tandava Stotram, a hymn praising the dance of cosmic energy of Shiva. Having been amazed at Ravana's piety, Shiva blessed him with unimaginable strength and a divine sword.

Bhasmasura's Boon

And there is also this tale of Bhasmasura, an Asura who had performed rigorous penance to satisfy Shiva. Shiva was impressed with his devotion and granted him a boon to reduce any human being to ashes by simply putting his hand on the head. Bhasmasura misused the boon, but it is an instance of the unbiased nature of Shiva in awarding boons.

Samudra Manthan

Both Devas and Asuras were fighting to get the nectar of immortality while they were churning the ocean (Samudra Manthan). When world-destroying poison Halahala was created, it appeared to destroy the world. Shiva drank it and rescued the world. In this noble deed, he earned the name Neelkanth, i.e., he became the savior of both Devas and Asuras.

Lessons of the Dual Worship of Shiva

1. Equality and Impartiality:

Shiva's acceptance of Asuras and Devas reflects the significance of equality and justice. He does not judge beings on the basis of their badness or goodness but rather on the basis of their devotion and faith alone.

2. Devotion Over Power:

Shiva's forgiveness to Asuras once again reflects that devoted faith will prevail over one's inherent nature. Whether a being is divine or devilish in nature, devoted faith in Shiva will never be vanquished.

3. Balance between Destruction and Creation

Shiva as a destroyer does not only imply destruction but also clearing space for new creation. This balance is of utmost significance in cosmic balance.

Why Asuras Worship Shiva

Asuras will desire power, immortality, and mastery. Shiva is boon-granter, Lord of Yoga and Tantra, and therefore he becomes a great benefactor. His ascetic nature means that he can be easily satisfied by sincere penance, and therefore he becomes available to Asuras who perform severe austerities.

Why Gods Worship Shiva

Shiva is also revered by the Devas for knowledge, wisdom, and protection. He destroys the vices and protects the virtues. His descent into situations of finality, like in the case of Samudra Manthan, is a reflection of his inimitable role in bringing about the equilibrium of the world.

Conclusion

The unique role of Lord Shiva as a god, being revered by Asuras not only by them but also by the Devas, is an evidence of his universal form. He is an ethical owner who is beyond the good versus evil choice, hence a man of universal respect. His humaneness, impartiality, and immense power evoke love of creatures everywhere within the universe of cosmos-demons. Apreciation of the reasons why Asuras and Gods are so fond of Shiva helps to bring forth virtues of love, tolerance, and cosmic balance in Hindu philosophy.

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