Triloknath is a revered name for Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
Understanding Triloknath
The name "Triloknath" is a composite of two Sanskrit words:
- "Tri" meaning three
- "Lok" meaning worlds or realms
- "Nath" meaning lord or master
Therefore, Triloknath literally translates to "Lord of the Three Worlds." These three worlds typically refer to Swarglok (heaven), Bhulok (earth), and Patal lok (the underworld), signifying a deity who presides over all realms of existence.
Lord Shiva: The Deity of Triloknath
Lord Shiva is widely known by the name Triloknath because of his supreme authority and cosmic role as the creator, preserver, and destroyer within the Hindu trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva). He is often depicted with a third eye on his forehead, which symbolizes his wisdom, perception beyond the ordinary, and destructive power. This iconic "three-eyed" aspect further reinforces his dominion over all realms and time.
Key aspects and roles of Lord Shiva include:
- The Destroyer: He destroys ignorance, evil, and the old order to make way for new creation.
- The Meditator: Often depicted in deep meditation, representing stillness and detachment.
- The Cosmic Dancer (Nataraja): His dance symbolizes the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction.
- The Benevolent One: Despite his destructive power, he is also known as Shankara (giver of joy) and Bholenath (the innocent one).
Significance of the Name
The title Triloknath emphasizes Lord Shiva's ultimate supremacy and control over the entire universe. It conveys his omnipotence and omnipresence, highlighting that nothing exists beyond his purview. Devotees often use this name to invoke his protection and blessings across all aspects of their lives and existence.
Common Epithets and Forms of Shiva
Lord Shiva is known by thousands of names, each reflecting a particular attribute or legend. Here are a few prominent ones:
| Name/Epithet | Meaning/Significance |
|---|---|
| Mahadev | The Great God |
| Neelkanth | The Blue-throated (after consuming cosmic poison) |
| Shankara | The Giver of Joy; The Benevolent One |
| Tryambakam | The Three-eyed Lord |
| Rudra | The Roarer; The Fierce One |
| Bholenath | The Innocent Lord; The Easily Pleased One |
| Nataraja | The Lord of Dance |
For more detailed information on Lord Shiva and his significance, you can explore resources like Britannica.
