Parvati represents the pinnacle of discipleship, but we’ve overlooked this aspect of her character. We typically see her as Shiva’s wife, neglecting her role as a seeker of knowledge.
Parvati embodies curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, and the ability to transcend worldly attachments. She sees beyond the physical form and perceives the essence of the person in front of her. Her devotion is so profound that she’s willing to become sati (a woman who immolates herself on her husband’s funeral pyre) to attain the truth.
Consider this: Parvati’s love for Shiva is so intense that Shiva’s teachings to her are referred to as “ullas” (joy or delight). When you read tantric texts, you’ll find that Shiva shared his knowledge with Parvati in a state of joy, love, and freedom. This is how Parvati became the embodiment of Shakti (divine energy)!
A guru’s wisdom is most effective when shared with a receptive and devoted heart. If you approach a guru with a business-like mentality, measuring and weighing the benefits, you’ll miss out on the true essence of their teachings.
To receive wisdom, you must cultivate the qualities of Parvati: surrender, self-discipline, and patience. Shiva is pleased by devotion, not by ego or a desire to prove oneself.
There’s a significant difference between Parvati’s approach and Ravana’s. Both practiced intense austerities to please Shiva, but their motivations differed. Parvati saw Shiva as her ultimate reality, while Ravana sought to prove his own capabilities.
The key to spiritual growth lies not in pleasing the divine just once but in maintaining a consistent and loving relationship. You must master the art of devotion, not just momentarily but perpetually.
I firmly believe that Parvati is the catalyst who awakens the guru principle within Shiva. She’s the one who sparked the conversation, and Shiva responded. In this sense, Parvati is the spiritual catalyst who facilitates our connection with the divine.
The Spiritual Catalyst!!
