Devine lovers Shiva and Shakti
Shiva and Shakti: The Eternal Love Story đ
In this edition of the newsletter, I want to share an incredible YouTube video I recently came across. This video beautifully explores themes of growth, balance, and the merging of masculine and feminine energiesâboth within ourselves and in the world around us. It offers a fresh perspective on harmony and unity in life.
As you watch, I invite you to consider a few ideas that might help you see the story in a new light. These reflections are inspired by the timeless Eastern tale of Shiva and Shakti, a story about love, consciousness, and the journey of awakening.
The story begins with the emergence of consciousness from nothingness (referred to as sunya in Eastern traditions). As consciousness recognizes itself, it becomes aware of its separation into energy (Shakti) and awareness (Shiva). This tale of separation and reunion is central to Hindu philosophy, portraying the divine love of Shiva and Shakti.
In the material world, governed by ego, the divine goddess Shakti takes human form as Sati. Drawn to Shiva, her divine partner, she cannot recall her true identity, nor can he. Shiva, dwelling in his abode on Mount Kailash, lives in harmony with his inner world, even the shadows and chaos symbolized by demonic creatures. These dark beings represent the challenges and complexities of life, which Shiva accepts as part of himself and the universe.
When Sati first sees Shiva, she feels a deep, bittersweet longing, as if remembering a love from across lifetimes. Yet, in this ego-driven world, her father, Daksha, sees himself as the chosen one, destined to rule humanity. Arrogant and controlling, Daksha clashes with Shiva, who rejects authority and lives freely, as a rebel in the kingâs eyes.
This conflict reflects a deeper truth about humanity. We often label ourselves as âgoodâ while judging others as âevilâ if they donât fit our ideas of morality or control. This mindset not only alienates others but blinds us to our own flaws. It fosters fear and division, as people cling to their notions of ârightness,â haunted by the unknownâsymbolized here by the dark creatures on Mount Kailash.
When Sati visits Shivaâs abode, her fear of these creatures mirrors her own unawakened state. Though she has found Shiva, she hasnât yet shed her ego. This makes her vulnerable, especially when her father insults Shiva. Consumed by anger and pride, Sati tragically sacrifices herself, torn between love and her ego. This moment shows the painful struggle between spiritual growth and ego-driven emotions.
Shivaâs anger at Satiâs death manifests as powerful shadow forms like Veerabhadra and Bhadrakali, representing the inner darkness that emerges when ego dominates. These shadows wreak havoc, symbolizing the turmoil within us when we are unaware of our deeper selves.
The story doesnât end there. Shakti is reborn as Parvati, who devotes herself to spiritual growth and wisdom. This time, she approaches Shiva with humility and persistence. Shiva, wary of heartache, tests her devotion to ensure she has truly awakened. Eventually, her love and commitment touch him, showing that devotion is the key to awakening our higher consciousness.
This tale reflects our inner journeyâthe balancing of masculine (mind) and feminine (matter) energies within us. It teaches us about harmony, self-awareness, and the path to inner awakening.
As you watch this beautifully animated video, I hope these ideas add depth to your experience. See what insights come to you as the story unfolds.Â
Pavithra T LH â€ïžđđ