Hanuman Ji: Avatar of Shiva – Mythology & Significance
Hanuman Ji as an Avatar of Lord Shiva – Mythology, History, and Significance
Discover the deep connection between Hanuman and Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology. Hanuman ji is believed to be an avatar (incarnation) of Lord Shiva, born to serve Lord Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu. Ancient scriptures like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas describe Hanuman’s divine origin and his role in protecting dharma. As an incarnation of Shiva, Hanuman embodies strength, devotion, and selfless service. Worshipping him is believed to bring courage, wisdom, and protection from negativity. Learn about Hanuman’s mythology, historical significance, and why millions revere him as a symbol of power and devotion. Explore the spiritual link between Shiva and Hanuman and the reason behind this divine avatar. Read on to understand the deeper aspects of Hanuman’s legend
This article delves into the birth of Hanuman, his role in Hindu scriptures, historical and sculptural references, perspectives of spiritual leaders, and his significance in the modern era.
Shiva Purana’s Reference to Hanuman Ji
The Shiva Purana is one of the most revered Hindu scriptures, dedicated to Lord Shiva, detailing his cosmic manifestations, divine attributes, and interactions with other deities. Among the many significant references in the text, one of the most profound is the mention of Lord Hanuman as an avatar of Shiva. The Shiva Purana describes how Lord Shiva took the form of Hanuman to serve Lord Rama, the incarnation of Vishnu, during the great epic of the Ramayana.
The concept of Lord Hanuman as a manifestation of Shiva has been widely accepted in Hindu philosophy and theology. This article explores Shiva Purana’s reference to Hanuman Ji, the significance of this connection, and its impact on Hindu traditions.
Hanuman ji: The Divine Incarnation of Lord Shiva
The Birth of Hanuman Ji According to Shiva Purana
The Shiva Purana narrates that Lord Shiva, upon hearing about Vishnu’s incarnation as Rama, desired to serve him in a unique way. To fulfill this divine wish, he decided to take the form of Hanuman, the most ardent devotee of Lord Rama.
The divine sequence leading to Hanuman’s birth is as follows:
Anjana’s Penance: Anjana, a celestial apsara, was cursed to be born as a Vanara. To free herself from this curse, she prayed to Lord Shiva for a divine child.
Shiva’s Blessing: Moved by her penance, Lord Shiva granted her a boon, saying that he himself would be born as her son.
Vayu’s Role: During King Dasharatha’s Putrakameshti Yajna, the sacred pudding meant for his queens was mystically transported by Vayu (the Wind God) to Anjana, leading to Hanuman’s conception.
Born as a Vanara: Thus, Hanuman was born as a Vanara but carried the divine energy of Shiva, making him a part-incarnation of Mahadeva himself.
This story illustrates that Hanuman is not just a devotee of Rama but an embodiment of Shiva’s divine energy, destined to assist Rama in his mission to destroy evil.
Shiva Purana’s Mentions of Hanuman ji’s Divine Role
1. Hanuman as the Symbol of Devotion and Strength
The Shiva Purana extols Hanuman as a being of unparalleled devotion (bhakti), strength (shakti), and wisdom (jnana). It describes that Lord Shiva infused Hanuman with qualities that made him the perfect servant and protector of Dharma.
Hanuman’s unwavering bhakti towards Rama is a reflection of Shiva’s eternal devotion to Vishnu.
His strength and courage are symbolic of Shiva’s formidable energy (Rudra aspect).
His celibacy and yogic discipline mirror Shiva’s role as an ascetic and supreme yogi.
2. Hanuman ji as an Immortal Being (Chiranjeevi)
The Shiva Purana mentions that Hanuman was granted immortality (Chiranjivi status), ensuring his presence in all ages to protect righteousness (Dharma). This makes him one of the eight immortals (Ashta Chiranjivi) who live beyond the present time cycle.
Lord Shiva blessed Hanuman with the ability to live beyond time, symbolising his eternal devotion to Lord Rama and his divine responsibility to uphold truth and righteousness.
Hanuman ji in the Ramayana: Shiva’s Divine Role in Action
1. Meeting Lord Rama
As per the Shiva Purana and the Ramayana, Hanuman was destined to meet Lord Rama and become his most devoted servant. His first meeting with Rama was arranged by Sugriva and was filled with divine recognition. Rama instantly recognised Hanuman as Shiva’s incarnation and the one destined to aid him.
2. The Burning of Lanka - Shiva’s Rudra Form
When Hanuman set fire to Lanka with his burning tail, he exhibited Shiva’s destructive Rudra aspect. Just as Shiva performs Tandava, the cosmic dance of destruction, Hanuman wreaked havoc on Ravana’s city, symbolising the destruction of evil.
3. Carrying the Sanjeevani Mountain
When Lakshmana was injured in battle, Hanuman flew to the Himalayas and lifted the entire Sanjeevani Mountain. This act of restoring life is reminiscent of Shiva’s role as the divine healer who can grant immortality.
Philosophical Significance of Shiva-Hanuman Connection
1. Hanuman as the Ultimate Bhakta (Devotee)
The Shiva Purana describes Hanuman as the ideal devotee (parama bhakta), symbolising the highest form of devotion. Shiva, who is known as the greatest yogi, manifested as Hanuman to showcase how pure devotion (bhakti) surpasses everything, even divine power.
2. Hanuman as a Bridge Between Shiva and Vishnu Worship
Shiva is often associated with renunciation and asceticism.
Vishnu represents preservation, devotion, and duty.
Hanuman bridges these two paths, embodying both yogic wisdom and devotional service.
Thus, Hanuman worship unites the devotees of both Shaivism (followers of Shiva) and Vaishnavism (followers of Vishnu).
Hanuman in Shiva Temples and Worship Practices
1. Hanuman in Shiva Temples
Many Shiva temples feature Hanuman idols, emphasising their divine connection. Some notable examples include:
Kaviyoor Mahadevar Temple (Kerala) – A rare temple where Hanuman and Shiva are worshipped together.
Ramanathaswamy Temple (Rameswaram) – One of the holiest Shiva temples, where Hanuman is revered.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Varanasi) – Hanuman is worshipped alongside Lord Shiva in this temple.
2. Worship of Hanuman on Shivratri
On Maha Shivaratri, many devotees chant Hanuman Chalisa and offer prayers to both Lord Shiva and Hanuman, reinforcing their connection.
3. Recitation of Hanuman Chalisa
The Hanuman Chalisa written by Tulsidas states:
शंकर सुवन केसरी नंदन |
Shankara Suvana Kesari Nandana
(You are the son of Lord Shiva and Kesari)
This reinforces the belief that Hanuman is Shiva’s incarnation.
Why Shiva Purana’s Reference to Hanuman Ji is Significant
The Shiva Purana’s mention of Hanuman as an incarnation of Shiva holds deep spiritual significance. It highlights:
Hanuman’s divine purpose as a servant of Rama.
The unity of Shiva and Vishnu worship.
Hanuman’s role as a bridge between bhakti (devotion) and shakti (power).
The deeper connection between Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
Lord Hanuman, as described in the Shiva Purana, is not just a devoted warrior but also a manifestation of Shiva’s divine energy, a supreme yogi, and a symbol of absolute devotion. Worshipping Hanuman is thus equivalent to invoking Shiva’s blessings, making him one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. 🚩
Skanda Purana and Narada Purana
The Connection Between Hanuman Ji and Lord Shiva as Mentioned in Skanda Purana and Narada Purana
The relationship between Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and scriptures. Hanuman Ji is often considered an incarnation or Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva, an aspect that is strongly supported by various Hindu texts, including the Skanda Purana and Narada Purana. These scriptures highlight Hanuman's divine origin, his supreme devotion, and his close connection to Lord Shiva in multiple ways. This article explores these aspects in detail with citations from the Skanda Purana and Narada Purana.
Hanuman Ji as an Incarnation of Lord Shiva
The belief that Hanuman Ji is an incarnation (avatar) of Lord Shiva is well-documented in many Hindu scriptures. According to the Skanda Purana, Lord Shiva, at the request of Lord Vishnu, agreed to take birth as Hanuman to assist Lord Rama (Vishnu’s avatar) in his mission to defeat Ravana. The Narada Purana also reiterates this belief, stating that Hanuman was born with the divine energy of Shiva to serve the greater cosmic purpose of righteousness (Dharma).
Reference from Skanda Purana
According to the Skanda Purana (Kedara Kanda, Chapter 18), it is stated:
"भगवान् शंकरो यस्य शरीरं प्राप्य जन्मभाक्। हनुमान् तस्य देहांशो रामे भक्तिरतं सदा।।"
("Lord Shiva himself took birth in the form of Hanuman, always devoted to Lord Rama.")
This reference clearly states that Hanuman is an aspect of Lord Shiva, reinforcing the belief that he is a Rudra Avatar.
Reference from Narada Purana
The Narada Purana (Chapter 80, Verse 12-14) also speaks of Hanuman as an incarnation of Shiva:
"रुद्रो वा विष्णुमायायाः कृत्याय जनमाश्रितः। तस्मान्नैव तु संदेहो हरिशङ्करसंभवः।।"
("Rudra, through the divine Maya of Vishnu, took a human birth. There should be no doubt that Hanuman is born from the essence of both Hari (Vishnu) and Shankara (Shiva).”)
This verse confirms that Hanuman embodies both Shiva’s power and Vishnu’s devotion, making him an extraordinary divine figure in Hinduism.
Hanuman's Birth and the Blessing of Lord Shiva
According to the Skanda Purana (Kashi Khanda, Chapter 22), Hanuman was born to Anjana and Kesari after Anjana performed severe penance to please Lord Shiva. As a boon, Shiva granted her a divine child who would possess his strength and wisdom.
"अञ्जनायाः तपः साक्षात् शंकरान्मुनयः श्रुतम्। पुत्रार्थं तस्याः शिवेन प्रदत्तो वायुपुत्रकः।।"
("The sages heard that Anjana's penance pleased Lord Shiva, and he granted her the boon of a son, born with the blessings of Vayu.")
This directly connects Hanuman's birth to Lord Shiva's blessing, making him a divine being carrying Shiva's essence.
Hanuman’s Devotion to Lord Shiva
Despite being a form of Lord Shiva, Hanuman is also one of Shiva’s greatest devotees. The Skanda Purana and Narada Purana depict several instances where Hanuman worships Shiva.
Hanuman Worshiping Shiva in Skanda Purana
In the Skanda Purana (Kedarakhanda, Chapter 32, Verses 14-16), Hanuman is described as a great devotee of Lord Shiva:
"अञ्जनानन्दनः श्रीमान् शिवपूजायां तत्परः। भक्तः सर्वेश्वरस्यापि हरस्य परमात्मनः।।"
("The blessed son of Anjana, Hanuman, was devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva, the Supreme Soul of all beings.")
This verse clearly depicts Hanuman’s bhakti (devotion) towards Lord Shiva despite being an aspect of Shiva himself. It highlights how Hanuman’s humility and devotion transcend his divine identity.
Hanuman’s Worship of Shiva in Narada Purana
The Narada Purana (Chapter 98, Verse 22-24) states that Hanuman regularly worshipped Shivalinga and performed penance in the Himalayas in honor of Lord Shiva.
"शिवलिङ्गं समाराध्य हनुमान् पर्वताग्रतः। तपश्चकार दीर्घं स हृषीकेशस्य शासने।।"
("Hanuman worshipped the Shiva Linga on the mountain top and performed intense penance as per the instructions of Lord Vishnu.")
This shows that even as an incarnation of Shiva, Hanuman upheld the tradition of devotion to Lord Shiva, setting an example for all devotees.
Hanuman’s Strength as Shiva’s Blessing
One of the most notable aspects of Hanuman’s divinity is his immense strength, which is attributed to Shiva’s blessing.
Skanda Purana’s Account of Hanuman’s Strength
In the Skanda Purana (Chapter 24, Verse 8-10), it is mentioned:
"रुद्रांशसंज्ञकं वीरं महाबलपराक्रमम्। अजेयमशुभं हन्तुं रावणस्य विनाशकम्।।"
("Born as an aspect of Rudra, he was a mighty warrior, possessing unparalleled strength, and destined to destroy Ravana.")
This highlights how Hanuman’s strength is a manifestation of Shiva’s power, making him invincible.
Narada Purana’s Account of Hanuman’s Power
The Narada Purana (Chapter 102, Verse 16) also states:
"रुद्रांशजो हनुमान् च पराक्रमसमन्वितः। यस्य नामस्मरणेन सर्वदुःखं विनश्यति।।"
("Hanuman, born from Rudra’s energy, is filled with great valor. Just by remembering his name, all miseries are destroyed.")
This emphasises that Hanuman’s strength and divine energy come directly from Shiva, and his mere name grants relief from suffering.
Hanuman’s Role in the Ramayana as Shiva’s Contribution
The Skanda Purana and Narada Purana affirm that Hanuman’s role in the Ramayana was predetermined by Lord Shiva himself.
Skanda Purana’s Prediction of Hanuman’s Role
In the Skanda Purana (Kedara Khanda, Chapter 28), Lord Shiva declares:
"रामस्य सेवकं वीरं आत्मांशं प्रविशाम्यहम्। सीतायाः रक्षणार्थं च ममांशः सुतो भवेत्।।"
("To serve Lord Rama, I shall enter the form of a mighty warrior. My aspect shall be born to protect Sita.")
This confirms Hanuman’s divine mission was planned by Shiva as part of cosmic dharma.
The Skanda Purana and Narada Purana both confirm Hanuman Ji’s divine connection to Lord Shiva. Hanuman is described as a Rudra Avatar, a devoted worshipper of Shiva, and a manifestation of Shiva’s strength and blessings. These scriptures emphasise his role in upholding righteousness and his immense power, derived directly from Lord Shiva.
Through these references, it becomes clear that Hanuman is both an incarnation and a devotee of Lord Shiva, making him a unique and powerful figure in Hindu tradition. His story continues to inspire devotion, strength, and humility among devotees worldwide.
Hanuman in Indian Sculptures and Temples
Ancient Temples with Hanuman and Shiva Connection
Kaviyoor Mahadevar Temple (Kerala) – Hanuman has a dedicated shrine inside a Shiva temple.
Ramanathaswamy Temple (Rameswaram) – Hanuman is worshipped alongside Lord Shiva.
Hanuman Dhoka Temple (Nepal) – A unique Hanuman idol with Shiva-like attributes.
Sculptural Representation of Hanuman as Shiva’s Avatar
In various sculptures, Hanuman is depicted with a third eye, crescent moon, and Trishula (trident), attributes typically associated with Shiva.
What Spiritual Gurus and Saints Say About Hanuman as Shiva’s Incarnation
Hanuman, the revered god of Hinduism, is widely recognised as an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. However, another significant theological perspective within Hindu traditions is Hanuman’s identity as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. This belief is supported by various Hindu scriptures and has been reinforced by spiritual leaders and saints over centuries. Saints, poets, and spiritual masters such as Adi Shankaracharya, Tulsidas, and Swami Vivekananda have provided deep insights into this aspect of Hanuman’s divinity. This article explores their views and interpretations regarding Hanuman as an incarnation of Lord Shiva, referencing scriptural texts and philosophical discussions.
Adi Shankaracharya’s Views
Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE), the proponent of Advaita Vedanta, primarily emphasised the non-dual nature of the self and Brahman. While he did not explicitly focus on Hanuman as an incarnation of Shiva in his philosophical treatises, his followers and later scholars acknowledge Hanuman as a manifestation of Shiva’s boundless energy and devotion.
The belief in Hanuman as Shiva’s incarnation finds support in various Puranic sources, such as the Shiva Purana and Skanda Purana, where it is stated that Lord Shiva took birth as Hanuman to serve Lord Vishnu in his Rama avatar. The Matsya Purana (Chapter 54) and Brahmanda Purana also mention this aspect, reinforcing the idea that Hanuman was born out of Shiva’s divine will.
Adi Shankaracharya's hymns, such as the Hanumat Pancharatnam, emphasise Hanuman’s supreme strength and devotion, which align with Shiva’s attributes. Devotees of Advaita Vedanta interpret Hanuman’s servitude to Rama as an illustration of the soul’s submission to the supreme reality, paralleling Shankaracharya’s teaching that the individual self (jiva) ultimately merges with Brahman.
Tulsidas on Hanuman’s Divinity
Goswami Tulsidas, the 16th-century poet-saint, played a crucial role in propagating the devotional aspect of Hanuman’s divinity. His works, Ramcharitmanas and Hanuman Chalisa, explicitly establish Hanuman as an incarnation of Shiva.
In Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidas refers to Hanuman as “Shankar Suvan” (son of Shiva), which clearly supports the notion that Hanuman is a manifestation of Lord Shiva:
Shankar Suvan Kesari Nandan, Tej Pratap Maha Jag Vandan.
This verse translates to: “Hanuman is the incarnation of Lord Shankar (Shiva) and the son of Kesari; his divine energy and valor are venerated throughout the world.”
Similarly, in Hanuman Chalisa, Tulsidas reinforces this belief:
Aapan Tej Samharo Aape, Teenon Lok Hank Te Kape.
Here, Hanuman’s strength is equated with cosmic power, resonating with the omnipotence of Lord Shiva. Many scholars interpret Tulsidas’s works as affirmations of Hanuman’s divine connection with Shiva, reinforcing his role as Shiva’s incarnation.
Swami Vivekananda’s Perspective
Swami Vivekananda, the 19th-century spiritual leader and a key figure in the Indian Renaissance, regarded Hanuman as the epitome of bhakti (devotion) and shakti (power)—both characteristics attributed to Lord Shiva. He often spoke about Hanuman’s unwavering devotion to Lord Rama as the highest ideal of servitude and selflessness.
In one of his lectures, Vivekananda described Hanuman as the ideal disciple and the greatest embodiment of Brahmacharya (celibacy and self-discipline). He compared Hanuman’s devotion to that of Shiva’s meditation, illustrating how both figures represent different but complementary aspects of spiritual realisation—Shiva as the ascetic yogi and Hanuman as the devoted servant.
Swami Vivekananda also noted Hanuman’s superhuman abilities, which reflect Shiva’s divine powers. Hanuman’s strength, his ability to fly across the ocean, and his immortality mirror Shiva’s cosmic attributes, further reinforcing the identification of Hanuman as Shiva’s avatar.
Other Saints and Spiritual Leaders on Hanuman as Shiva’s Incarnation
1. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
Sri Ramakrishna, the great 19th-century mystic, often spoke about the divine play (Leela) of deities. He acknowledged Hanuman as an incarnation of Shiva and emphasised his boundless love for Lord Rama. Ramakrishna’s teachings often depicted Hanuman as an ideal devotee who merged devotion with supreme strength.
2. Sri Aurobindo
Sri Aurobindo, the philosopher and spiritual teacher, saw Hanuman as the personification of dynamic energy (Shakti) and devotion (Bhakti). He associated Hanuman’s unwavering focus with the ascetic practices of Lord Shiva, highlighting their intrinsic spiritual connection.
3. Paramahansa Yogananda
Paramahansa Yogananda, the author of Autobiography of a Yogi, also acknowledged Hanuman’s divine status as Shiva’s incarnation. He taught that meditating upon Hanuman could grant spiritual strength, endurance, and devotion—qualities that both Hanuman and Shiva embody.
Scriptural References Supporting Hanuman as Shiva’s Incarnation
Shiva Purana - States that Lord Shiva took birth as Hanuman to assist Lord Vishnu’s Rama avatar.
Skanda Purana - Identifies Hanuman as a divine manifestation of Shiva’s power.
Matsya Purana (Chapter 54) - Mentions that Hanuman was created by Shiva’s divine energy.
Ramcharitmanas (Tulsidas) - Explicitly calls Hanuman “Shankar Suvan.”
Hanuman Chalisa (Tulsidas) - Affirms Hanuman’s divine prowess and connection to Shiva.
Valmiki Ramayana - Although it does not directly call Hanuman Shiva’s incarnation, it describes his superhuman qualities, which are often linked to Shiva’s divine attributes.
The belief that Hanuman is an incarnation of Lord Shiva is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, supported by Puranic texts, poetic works, and the insights of spiritual masters. Adi Shankaracharya’s followers, Tulsidas’s poetic verses, and Swami Vivekananda’s philosophical perspectives all affirm Hanuman’s divine identity as Shiva’s manifestation.
Hanuman’s unparalleled strength, unwavering devotion, and immense wisdom make him one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. Recognising him as an incarnation of Shiva adds another layer to his divine persona, bridging the energies of destruction (Shiva) and devotion (Hanuman) into a single, spiritually powerful entity. As saints and spiritual leaders have repeatedly emphasised, Hanuman’s example serves as a guiding light for those who seek devotion, strength, and selfless service in their spiritual journey.
Significance of Worshipping Hanuman as Shiva’s Incarnation
Spiritual Benefits of Hanuman Ji Worship
Removes fear and obstacles (like Shiva’s Rudra form)
Enhances mental and physical strength
Bestows devotion and wisdom (Bhakti and Jnana yoga)
Destroys negativity and evil influences
Hanuman Ji and Shiva in Modern Worship
Devotees often chant Hanuman Chalisa, visit Hanuman temples on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and wear Rudraksha beads, a sacred symbol associated with Shiva.
This exploration of Hanuman’s identity as Shiva’s incarnation is a testament to his enduring relevance and divine stature in Hindu philosophy and spirituality.
Lord Hanuman is not just a mighty warrior and devotee of Rama; he is also a manifestation of Lord Shiva. From scriptural evidence, temple architecture, and saints’ teachings, it is clear that Hanuman embodies Shiva’s power and devotion. Worshipping Hanuman is thus equivalent to invoking Lord Shiva’s blessings, making him one of the most powerful and revered deities in Hinduism.
References
Shiva Purana, translated by Swami Jagdishwarananda.
Skanda Purana, translated by G.V. Tagare.
Matsya Purana, edited by M.N. Dutt.
Ramcharitmanas, by Goswami Tulsidas.
Hanuman Chalisa, by Goswami Tulsidas.
Swami Vivekananda’s collected works, Volume 4, Advaita Ashrama.
Autobiography of a Yogi, by Paramahansa Yogananda.
The Life Divine, by Sri Aurobindo.
Teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, compiled by Mahendranath Gupta.
Valmiki Ramayana, translated by Bibek Debroy.
