Shivaji is the god of many names and forms. All his forms are a symbol of some deep meaning, but the description of the Panchmukhi form of Shiva is found in very few places. There is a story related to how Lord Shiva wears Panchmukh. According to the legend, when Lord Vishnu took a beautiful form, all the gods came to see him. Then Shiva came to mind that if he takes five faces, he will probably look very attractive. As soon as he thought so, he became five faces, which had three eyes on each face. This form of Lord Shiva was called Panchanan. Each of his face has its own special significance. The description of the Panchmukhi form of Lord Shiva is found in the Puranas and Vedas. So let’s know how this form of Shiva has been explained in the scriptures…
The secret and importance of Panchmukhi Shiva
The five faces of Lord Shiva represent five directions and five elements. The names of these five faces are: Sadyojat, Vamdev, Aghor, Tatpurush and Ishaan.
1. Natural origin
Sadyojat face represents the west direction and is the lord of the Earth element. This face is a symbol of the creation of the universe. Lord Shiva composed the universe with the mouth of Sadyojat.
2. Vamdev
The Vamdev face represents the north direction and is the lord of the water element. It is a symbol of oral care. Lord Shiva followed the creation from the mouth of Vamdev.
3. Aghor
Aghor face represents the south direction and is the lord of the fire element. It is a symbol of mouth destruction. Lord Shiva destroyed the universe with his terrible mouth.
4. Tatpurush
Tattapurush represents the east direction and is the lord of the air element. This face is a symbol of extinction. Lord Shiva moved souls from one body to another from the mouth of Tatpurush.
5. Ishaan
Ishaan face represents the upper direction and is the lord of the sky element. This face is a symbol of beauty. Lord Shiva blessed the creatures from the north face and showed them the path of salvation. The importance of Panchmukhi Shiva shows the form of Panchmukhi Shiva that Lord Shiva is the author of the universe, spinach, destructive, destroyer and grace. These five faces represent five elements (Earth, water, fire, air and sky) from which it has become the universe.
