ARDHANARISHVAR.

DISCLAIMER: BEFORE READING THE TOPIC. THIS TOPIC IS  NOT INTENDED TO HARM OR TO MISLEAD THE KNOWLEDGE.

ARDHANARISHVAR. 

HISTORY OF ARDHANARISHVAR.

The earliest Ardbanarishwar dates to the Kushan period starting from the first century CE. Its iconography evolved and was perfected in the Gupta era. Adrfhanarishwar represents the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies of the universe (Purusha and Prakriti) Shiva is the male principle of God and Shakti also known as Parvati is the female principle of God. The principles are exalted as the root and womb of all creation. This is trying to manifest that the masculine and the feminine are equally divided within yourself.

SYMBOLIZATION OF ARDHANARISHWAR.

Ardhanarishwar is the form of the Hindu deity Shiva combined with his wife Parvati. Adrdhanarsishwar is depicted as half-male and half-female. The right half of the shiva is male and the left half of his is female Parvati.

SIGNIFICANCE OF ARDHANARISHVAR.

Ardhanarishvara form of Shiva, one half of him is a fully developed woman. Let me tell you the story of what happened. Shiva was in an ecstatic condition and because of that, Parvati was drawn to him. After Parvati did many things to woo him and sought all kinds of help, they got married. Once they were married, Shiva naturally wanted to share his experience. Parvati said, “This state that you are in within yourself, I want to experience it too. What should I do? Tell me. I am willing to do any kind of austerity.” Shiva smiled and said, “There is no need for you to do any great austerity. You just come and sit on my lap.” Parvati came and with absolutely no resistance towards him, sat on his left lap. 

Since she was so willing since she had placed herself totally in his hands, he just pulled her in and she became half of him Shiva was in ecstatic conditions which is why Parvati was drawn to him after Parvati had done many things to impress Shiva that they got married. Once they were married Shiva wanted to share all his experiences with Parvati. Parvati said this state that you are in within yourself I want to experience it too. What should I do? Tell me I am willing to do any kind of austerity you just come and sit on my lap. Parvati came and sat on his left lap since she was willing she placed tog in his hands he just pulled her I'm and she became half of him.

 IMPORTANT TEACHINGS FROM ARDHANARISHVAR.

In today's generation, while significant steps have been made towards gender equality, residual biases still linger. Some cling to outdated notions of masculinity and femininity, inflating their egos at the expense of others. Sadly, such prejudice can escalate into violence, with some children facing harm even for their perceived gender identity. This is unacceptable. Instead of comparing genders and assigning tasks based on stereotypes, we need to embrace a collaborative approach.

Both men and women should be empowered to contribute their individual talents and skills, regardless of societal expectations. We can learn from each other, stepping into different roles as needed. A true parent, like a protective lioness, wouldn't dream of leaving their offspring vulnerable; similarly, we must all take responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of every child, regardless of their gender.

While religious teachings and traditions offer valuable insights, we must reinterpret them through a lens of inclusivity and justice. Dharma shouldn't perpetuate harmful stereotypes but should champion the equal standing of all genders and individuals. Ultimately, our bodies may differ, but our responsibilities and duties as human beings are fundamentally the same: to treat each other with respect, understanding, and compassion.