Significance of Maya of Shiva
Maya of Shiva, as described in Purana and Vedanta, refers to the cosmic illusion or divine power of Shiva that confounds beings, leading to confusion and erroneous perceptions about reality. It serves as a test of devotion and manifests outcomes such as pride among gods and delusions affecting even wise individuals. Maya influences key figures like Vishnu and Brahma, often causing them confusion regarding Shiva's true nature. Ultimately, it epitomizes the cycle of birth and death that devotees strive to transcend through worship.
Synonyms: Illusion of shiva, Illusion, Divine play, Cosmic illusion
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Maya of Shiva'
Maya of Shiva in Hinduism represents the divine cosmic illusion that limits perception of reality, confuses beings about their true nature, influences major deities, and fosters delusion, ultimately serving as a test of devotion and understanding.
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The divine illusion or power of Shiva that leads to Vishnu being unaware of the missing lotus.[1] (2) The illusion worked by Shiva which deluded the Daityas and allowed the gods to gain an advantage.[2] (3) The cosmic illusion or divine power of Shiva that deludes beings, as experienced by Sudarshana after his misdeeds.[3] (4) The illusion or cosmic power that creates the cycle of birth and death, which devotees seek to overcome through worship.[4] (5) The inscrutable illusion created by Shiva that deludes people and keeps them from worshipping him.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The divine illusion created by Lord Shiva, which serves as a test of devotion and devotion towards his feet.[6]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The illusion or delusion created by Lord Shiva, which influences the understanding and perceptions of Brahma and Vishnu.[7]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) The divine illusion that prevents individuals from understanding their true self and the teachings of the scriptures.[8]