Shaivism

Shaivism (also known as Śaiva philosophy, and Saivam) is one of the major branches of Hinduism that reveres Shiva as the Supreme Being. It is also called “śaṇkara-dharma” which means "the path of [lord] Shankara". Followers of Shaivism range from those who deny a creator god to beliefs in deities or avatars connected to Shiva like Parvati, Ganesha and Kartikeya. The tradition has numerous sub-traditions such as Kashmir Shaivism and Vedantic Shaivism. It also includes ascetic yogic practices such as tapasya, meditation, pranayama, repentance ceremonies and selfless service to others for various spiritual/material rewards: moksha (liberation), health benefits etc., for oneself or ancestors. In addition it includes philosophical texts related to cosmology, mythology and interpreting sacred scriptures dealing with themes such as inward journey through jnana yoga (or inner wisdom). For example Svatmarama's Hatha Yoga Pradipika uses kundalini energy work plus traditional mantra yoga techniques derived from certain kurma texts found within Pashupata Shastra teachings by early medieval Bhairava teachers including Matsyendra Nath. The main thing that distinguishes this school from others are its conception of three facets held equal in power making up the triune form i.e Lord Ishvara - Creater God, Brahman - Unified Consciousness & Maya - Manifestation along with acceptance words Sacca Vakya & Mahavakyas used in Mandukya Upanishads probably constitute most important concepts behind understanding Sahivsm.