Why a Vaishnava Should Respect and Worship Lord Shiva

It is a common misconception that Vaishnavas should not worship Lord Shiva, an idea that can be traced back to various stories and interpretations within the Vedic tradition. However, understanding the deeper spiritual significance of Lord Shiva in Vaishnava traditions can help dispel these misunderstandings. This article explores the importance and respect that should be shown to Lord Shiva in Vaishnava traditions and emphasizes the unity and interconnectedness of the various Gods and Goddesses.

Respecting Lord Shiva as a Devotee of Lord Vishnu

The Bhakti movement, particularly the works of Saints like Tulsidas and their ecstatic theism, highlight the harmonious relationship between Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Tulsidas, a great Vaishnava saint, wrote the Rudrastakam and other bhajans, celebrating Lord Shiva's qualities and devotion to Lord Rama (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu).

Truly, Lord Shiva is the master, friend, and slave of Lord Rama, or as mentioned in the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna. These relationships are not harmful or blasphemous but rather symbolic expressions of the many facets of the Divine. Both sects, Vaishnavas and Shaivites, have stories that may belittle one another, but these are often meant to illustrate the complexity and diversity of devotion.

Lord Shiva's Unique Position in Vaishnava Traditions

Lord Shiva is not merely a rival or opponent to Lord Vishnu but has a unique and significant role in Vaishnava traditions. Lord Shiva is an expansion of Lord Krishna and is integral to the cosmos. He is revealed in scriptures to possess 84 out of the 100 transcendental qualities that Lord Krishna and Lord Brahma also embody to varying extents.

The position of Lord Shiva is further emphasized in the Srimad Bhagavatam, Brahma-Samhita, and Padma-Purana. Lord Shiva is referred to as the best of Vaishnavas (Vaisnavanam Yatha Sambhu) and is one of the 12 Mahajanas (great authorities) in Vaisnava philosophy.

Evidences from Sacred Texts

Srimad Bhagavatam (12.13.16) states that Lord Shiva is the supreme Vaishnava. Brahma-Samhita (45) explains that Lord Shiva is a transformation of Lord Vishnu for performing the work of destruction. Lord Shiva's connection with Lord Vishnu is evident in many texts, such as when Shiva drank the deadly poison Halahala to protect Lord Vishnu during the churning of the ocean (Srimad Bhagavatam, 8.7.40).

Shiva's devotion to Lord Rama through His wife Sati (Padma Purana) and His desire to participate in the ras-lila in Vrindavan are other examples of the deep bond between these deities. The Vrindavan Mukti Mantra states that Lord Shiva is the one who grants entrance to the most intimate pastimes of Lord Krishna, highlighting His unique and revered position.

Conclusion on Vaishnava Respect for Lord Shiva

It is not only important but also imperative for Vaishnavas to respect and worship Lord Shiva. Offending Lord Shiva or belittling His devotees is considered a violation of the Vedas and a serious sin. Lord Shiva's contributions to Vaishnava traditions are profound and numerous, and His role in spiritually protecting devotees is just as important as Vishnu's.

Let us, as Vaishnavas, remember that all deities are part of the larger tapestry of the Divine. Lord Shiva, with His unique qualities and spiritual power, plays a crucial role in the cosmic drama. Let us honor Him and all Vaishnavas in the spirit of unity and devotion.