Puran literally meaning "ancient, old" is a vast genre of Hindu literature about a wide range of topics, particularly about legends and other traditional lore. The Puran are known for the intricate layers of sym We have 18 total Puran in Hinduism. These Puran are mentioned in the form of 4 lacs granth, where each granth consists of 32 syllables. The word Puran means “Puran-Navam-Bhavti” in Sanskrit. It means “that through which old become new”. So, Puran are ancient entities, but it is designed to suit the modern language or today’s human needs.
18 Puran can be sub grouped in three categories
Shiva Puran I Linga Puran I Vishnu Puran I Bhagavata Puran I Narada Puran I Garuda Puran I Padma Puran I Varaha Puran
The Shiva Purana is an ancient Sanskrit text that celebrates the glory, power, and divinity of Lord Shiva, one of the supreme deities of Hinduism. This sacred scripture holds a revered place in the hearts of millions of devotees worldwide, offering profound insights into the nature of existence, the universe, and the path to spiritual enlightenment.
Divided into seven sections, each with its own unique character and focus, the Shiva Purana takes readers on a captivating journey through the realms of mythology, philosophy, and devotion. Let us embark on an exploration of this timeless treasure, delving into its captivating chapters and uncovering the eternal wisdom enshrined within.
The first chapter, known as the Vidyeshvara Samhita, serves as an introduction to the Shiva Purana, setting the stage for the profound revelations to follow. It begins with a dialogue between the celestial sage Shaunaka and the illustrious Sutji, who narrates the greatness of Lord Shiva and the significance of this sacred text.
This chapter establishes the foundational principles of Shaivism, the branch of Hinduism devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva. It explores the concept of Shiva as the Supreme Reality, the embodiment of both the transcendent and the immanent aspects of the divine.
The Rudra Samhita, the second chapter, delves into the awe-inspiring form of Lord Shiva as Rudra, the fierce and destructive aspect of the divine. This section unveils the power of Shiva's wrath, which is ultimately a manifestation of his boundless compassion, aimed at eradicating ignorance and liberating souls from the cycles of rebirth.
Through captivating narratives, this chapter portrays Shiva's battles against demons and asuras, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil, light and darkness. These tales serve as powerful allegories, highlighting the transformative power of devotion and the importance of surrendering to the divine will.
The third chapter, the Satarudra Samhita, is a profound exploration of the hundred names and forms of Lord Shiva. Each name and form represents a unique aspect of Shiva's divine nature, revealing the multifaceted and all-encompassing nature of the Supreme Being.
This section is a treasure trove of devotional hymns, mantras, and rituals, guiding devotees on the path of spiritual practice and offering a means to connect with the divine through various forms of worship and contemplation.
The Kailasha Samhita, the fourth chapter, transports readers to the celestial abode of Lord Shiva – Mount Kailash. This chapter is a mesmerizing journey through the realms of mythology, where the splendor and grandeur of Shiva's divine residence are vividly described.
Through captivating narratives, this section unveils the mysteries surrounding Shiva's consort, the divine Goddess Parvati, and their profound union, symbolizing the cosmic dance of Shiva and Shakti, the ultimate expression of divine love and unity.
The fifth chapter, the Saura Samhita, explores the profound connection between Lord Shiva and the Sun God, Surya. This section delves into the esoteric practices of solar worship and its relationship with the attainment of spiritual enlightenment.
Through intricate descriptions and symbolic narratives, this chapter reveals the cosmic dance of Shiva and the Sun, representing the eternal interplay between the transcendent and the immanent aspects of existence.
The Vaishnava Samhita, the sixth chapter, bridges the gap between the two great traditions of Hinduism – Shaivism and Vaishnavism. This section explores the profound relationship between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, highlighting the underlying unity and harmony that exists within the diverse manifestations of the divine.
Through captivating narratives and philosophical discourses, this chapter unveils the complementary nature of these two deities, symbolizing the balance and interconnectedness of all aspects of existence.
The final chapter, the Brahma Samhita, culminates the Shiva Purana with a profound exploration of the nature of Brahman, the Supreme Reality that transcends all forms and names. This section delves into the deepest philosophical and metaphysical concepts, guiding devotees towards the ultimate goal of spiritual realization.
Through intricate descriptions and profound dialogues, this chapter reveals the path to self-knowledge and the realization of one's true nature as the eternal, blissful, and all-pervading Consciousness that underlies the entire universe.
The Shiva Purana is a timeless masterpiece that has inspired countless devotees throughout the ages. Its wisdom and teachings transcend the boundaries of time and culture, offering a profound and transformative experience to all who embark on this sacred journey.
Through its captivating narratives, poetic descriptions, and profound philosophical insights, the Shiva Purana invites us to explore the depths of our own beings, to connect with the divine within, and to embrace the eternal truth that resides at the core of all existence.
Whether you are a seeker of spiritual knowledge, a lover of mythology, or simply someone drawn to the mysteries of life, the Shiva Purana promises to be a transcendent and enlightening experience, unveiling the majesty and grandeur of Lord Shiva, the great cosmic dancer who embodies the eternal dance of creation, preservation, and dissolution.
Immerse yourself in this sacred text, and allow its profound wisdom to guide you on a transformative journey towards self-realization and the attainment of the highest spiritual truths.
The Bhagavata Purana, also known as the Srimad Bhagavatam, is one of the eighteen Mahāpurāṇas and consists of twelve books or cantos. Each canto (or Skandha) is a chapter in the narrative of this Purana.
Narada Puran is divided into two chapters and contains over twenty-five thousands shlokas. According to some scholars, it is also the first purana ever written by Sage Vyas. Therefore, it is said to contain the essence of all 18 Mahapuranas.
One of the most well-known puranas among Hindus is the Garuda Purana. The number of TV serials produced on this purana reflects its humongous popularity. The purana is divided into 279 chapters and contains over 18 thousands shlokas. It is particularly well-known for its references to the afterlife and the concepts of heaven and hell.
Padma Puran is divided into five chapters and has a total of 55 thousands verses. They are, in order, Srishti-Khanda, Swarga-Khanda, Uttar-Khanda, Bhumi-Khanda, and Patala-Khanda.
Several references to the origin of the earth and constellations can be found in this purana. It also describes the four stages of how living beings evolved on Earth, which has been proven scientifically.
Varaha Puran is divided into 217 sections and contains over 10 thousands shlokas. This purana contains a detailed description of Lord Vishnu’s Varaha avatar. Aside from that, it mentions various lokas and life on other planets.