Why Are All the Siddhars Devotees of Lord Shiva, Not Lord Vishnu?
The concept of Siddhars and their devotion to Lord Shiva, as opposed to Lord Vishnu, is a complex and fascinating aspect of Hinduism. Understanding this requires a deep dive into the spiritual philosophies and practices that define the lives of these sacred beings.
Understanding the Siddhars
The Siddhars, also known as Siddhas or Siddhar Guru, are mystics and ascetics who are said to possess advanced spiritual knowledge and abilities. They are recognized for their deep understanding of the Self, the universe, and the divine. According to tradition, these individuals attained immortality through their profound spiritual practices.
The Divinity of Lord Shiva in the Siddhar Tradition
Lord Shiva, the Destroyer and Transformer in the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, is venerated extensively by the Siddhars. They often describe Shiva as the ultimate reality, the one who is beyond the cycle of birth and death, and the experiencer of the ultimate truth. This portrayal does not mean that Shiva is not revered by other devotees, but it highlights the distinctive perspective of the Siddhars.
Contrasting with Lord Vishnu
When comparing the devotion of the Siddhars to Lord Shiva versus Lord Vishnu, it's important to note that both deities are central to Hindu worship. Lord Vishnu, the Preserver in Hindu trinity, is known for his omnipotence and for his many avatars. However, the Siddhars' devotional practices often focus on the concept of being "wholly incomplete" and seeking a state of realization through continuous self-questioning and introspection.
Insight from the Verse
The verse by Ishaputra underscores the nature of a Siddhar's quest. It describes a state of being where the individual has transcended the limitations of Maya (illusion) and liberation, experiencing a state of bliss and self-realization. This transcendent state is characterized by a pure, unfettered consciousness, often identified with Shiva in many spiritual traditions.
The Role of Attachment and Detachment in Devotion
The Siddhar’s devotion to Lord Shiva is not bound by the usual ritualistic and emotional attachments often seen in devotion to Lord Vishnu. Instead, it is characterized by a deep and palpable inner journey, a quest for true understanding and realization. The Bhakti Yogis, followers of Vishnu, often attach themselves to the attributes and stories of Vishnu, seeking divine intervention and protection. In contrast, the Shiva Yogis are more focused on the search for the ultimate reality, a quest that can be tedious and often without immediate answers.
Personal Devotion and Genetic Influence
The author, inspired by their genetic predisposition towards masculine qualities, might gravitate towards more feminine deities who are often associated with compassion, protection, and ecstasy. For the Siddhars, however, the choice of deity is not driven by personal desires but by the divine call and the path of spiritual evolution.
Shiva Yogi vs. Bhakti Yogi
The Shiva Yogi, as described here, is characterized by a continuous self-examination and pursuit of truth. This type of yoga is marked by the unending questioning of everything, an eternal search for the ultimate reality. This state does not mean the Shiva Yogi is detached; rather, it means they are deeply engaged in the quest, often without a final answer or resolution.
Conclusion
The devotional paths of Siddhars towards Lord Shiva and the Bhakti Yogis towards Lord Vishnu are characterized by different but equally profound spiritual quests. Both paths aim to achieve a higher state of consciousness, but they do so through unique and often contrasting approaches. Understanding the Siddhar tradition provides valuable insights into the diverse and rich spiritual landscape of Hinduism.