In the vast ocean of Sanatana Dharma, few names echo with as much reverence, mysticism, and cosmic energy as Lord Shiva—the destroyer of evil, the master of meditation, and the eternal source of transformation. He is Mahadeva, the Great God, who resides in stillness and storm, silence and sound.
To invoke His divine presence and absorb His blessings, devotees across ages have recited the sacred 108 Names of Lord Shiva—each name a doorway to deeper understanding, each syllable a vibration that resonates with the universe itself.
These Mahadeva 108 names are not mere titles; they are expressions of His many forms, qualities, and celestial roles—from the fierce Rudra to the benevolent Shankara, from the ascetic Yogeshwara to the compassionate Bholenath.
Let’s learn the 108 names of Shiva in English, uncovering their meanings, mantras, and spiritual significance.
108 Names of Lord Shiva (With Meaning & Mantra)
Below is the list of all 108 names of Shiva with meaning and mantra:
| English Transliteration | Meaning | Mantra |
| Shivaya | The Auspicious One | Om Shivaya Namah |
| Maheshwaraya | The Great Lord | Om Maheshwaraya Namah |
| Shambhave | Source of Bliss | Om Shambhave Namah |
| Pinakine | Wielder of the Bow | Om Pinakine Namah |
| Shashishekharaya | One who wears the moon | Om Shashishekharaya Namah |
| Vamadevaya | The Pleasing God | Om Vamadevaya Namah |
| Virupakshaya | One with Odd Eyes | Om Virupakshaya Namah |
| Kapardine | One with Matted Hair | Om Kapardine Namah |
| Nilalohitaya | The Blue and Red One | Om Nilalohitaya Namah |
| Shankaraya | The Giver of Joy | Om Shankaraya Namah |
| Shoolapanaye | One who holds the trident | Om Shoolapanaye Namah |
| Khatvangine | Bearer of the club | Om Khatvangine Namah |
| Vishnuvallabhaya | Dear to Vishnu | Om Vishnuvallabhaya Namah |
| Shipivishtaya | Radiant Being | Om Shipivishtaya Namah |
| Ambikanathaya | Lord of Parvati | Om Ambikanathaya Namah |
| Shrikanthaya | One with a Glorious Throat | Om Shrikanthaya Namah |
| Bhaktavatsalaya | Lover of Devotees | Om Bhaktavatsalaya Namah |
| Bhavaaya | Existence itself | Om Bhavaaya Namah |
| Sharvaya | Destroyer | Om Sharvaya Namah |
| Trilochanaya | The Three-Eyed Lord | Om Trilochanaya Namah |
| Vishwarupaya | Of universal form | Om Vishwarupaya Namah |
| Virabhadraya | Fierce warrior form | Om Virabhadraya Namah |
| Gananathaya | Lord of the ganas | Om Gananathaya Namah |
| Prajapataye | Lord of creation | Om Prajapataye Namah |
| Hiranyaretase | Golden-hued | Om Hiranyaretase Namah |
| Durdharshaya | Difficult to oppose | Om Durdharshaya Namah |
| Girishaya | Lord of the mountains | Om Girishaya Namah |
| Girishaya | Lord of speech | Om Girishaya Namah |
| Anaghaya | Sinless One | Om Anaghaya Namah |
| Bhuvaneshwaraya | Lord of the Worlds | Om Bhuvaneshwaraya Namah |
| Tryambakaya | Three-eyed God | Om Tryambakaya Namah |
| Tripurantakaya | Destroyer of Tripura | Om Tripurantakaya Namah |
| Trikaladrkaya | Knower of past, present, and future | Om Trikaladrkaya Namah |
| Trilokesaya | Lord of three worlds | Om Trilokesaya Namah |
| Shitikanthaya | Blue-throated One | Om Shitikanthaya Namah |
| Shivapriyaya | Beloved of Shiva | Om Shivapriyaya Namah |
| Ugraya | Fierce One | Om Ugraya Namah |
| Kapaline | Skull-bearer | Om Kapaline Namah |
| Kamari | Enemy of Kamadeva | Om Kamari Namah |
| Andhakasura-sudanaya | Slayer of demon Andhaka | Om Andhakasura-sudanaya Namah |
| Ganga-dharaya | Bearer of the Ganga | Om Ganga-dharaya Namah |
| Lalatakshaaya | Foreheaded | Om Lalatakshaaya Namah |
| Kalakalaya | Time itself | Om Kalakalaya Namah |
| Kripaya | Compassionate One | Om Kripaya Namah |
| Bhimaaya | Fearsome | Om Bhimaaya Namah |
| Parashuhastaya | Axe-bearer | Om Parashuhastaya Namah |
| Mrigapanaye | Wielder of deer | Om Mrigapanaye Namah |
| Jatadharaya | Matted-haired Lord | Om Jatadharaya Namah |
| Kailasavasine | Resident of Kailasa | Om Kailasavasine Namah |
| Kavachine | Armored One | Om Kavachine Namah |
| Kataradharakaya | Dagger-wielder | Om Kataradharakaya Namah |
| Tripurantakaya | Destroyer of cities | Om Tripurantakaya Namah |
| Vrishankaya | Mark of Dharma | Om Vrishankaya Namah |
| Vrishabharudhaya | Rider of the bull | Om Vrishabharudhaya Namah |
| Bhasmodhulitavigrahaya | Smeared with ashes | Om Bhasmodhulitavigrahaya Namah |
| Samapriyaya | Lover of equality | Om Samapriyaya Namah |
| Swaramayaya | Embodiment of sound | Om Swaramayaya Namah |
| Trayimurtaye | Three-fold form | Om Trayimurtaye Namah |
| Anishwaraya | Without a superior | Om Anishwaraya Namah |
| Sarvajnaya | All-knowing | Om Sarvajnaya Namah |
| Paramatmane | Supreme Soul | Om Paramatmane Namah |
| Somaya | Moon-like | Om Somaya Namah |
| Somarupaya | Form of the moon | Om Somarupaya Namah |
| Somasuryagni-lochanaya | With eyes of moon, sun, and fire | Om Somasuryagni-lochanaya Namah |
| Havishye | Offered in oblation | Om Havishye Namah |
| Yajamanaya | The sacrificer | Om Yajamanaya Namah |
| Yajnapataye | Lord of sacrifice | Om Yajnapataye Namah |
| Yajangaya | Born of sacrifice | Om Yajangaya Namah |
| Yajva | Performer of yajna | Om Yajva Namah |
| Jnanamayaya | Full of knowledge | Om Jnanamayaya Namah |
| Paramjyotishe | Supreme light | Om Paramjyotishe Namah |
| Sthanave | Pillar of support | Om Sthanave Namah |
| Sarvavageshwaraya | Lord of all speech | Om Sarvavageshwaraya Namah |
| Sreshthaya | Most excellent | Om Sreshthaya Namah |
| Sarvabhutaya | All-pervading | Om Sarvabhutaya Namah |
| Adidevaya | Primordial deity | Om Adidevaya Namah |
| Mahadevaaya | Great God | Om Mahadevaaya Namah |
| Avyayaya | Indestructible | Om Avyayaya Namah |
| Haraya | Remover of sins | Om Haraya Namah |
| Pushadantabhitaya | Feared by Pushadanta | Om Pushadantabhitaya Namah |
| Avyagraya | Unagitated | Om Avyagraya Namah |
| Dakshadhvaraharaya | Destroyer of Daksha’s yajna | Om Dakshadhvaraharaya Namah |
| Haraya | The Remover | Om Haraya Namah |
| Bhaganetrabhide | Breaker of Bhaga’s eye | Om Bhaganetrabhide Namah |
| Avyaktaya | Incomprehensible | Om Avyaktaya Namah |
| Sahasrakshaya | Thousand-eyed | Om Sahasrakshaya Namah |
| Anantaya | Infinite | Om Anantaya Namah |
| Anishvaraya | Without master | Om Anishvaraya Namah |
| Tattvaya | Truth | Om Tattvaya Namah |
| Tattvamayaya | Essence of truth | Om Tattvamayaya Namah |
| Samapriyaya | Lover of equanimity | Om Samapriyaya Namah |
| Somasuryagnilochanaya | With eyes of sun, moon, fire | Om Somasuryagnilochanaya Namah |
| Havishye | Worthy of oblation | Om Havishye Namah |
| Yajamanaya | Lord of sacrifice | Om Yajamanaya Namah |
| Yajnapataye | Protector of yajnas | Om Yajnapataye Namah |
| Rudraya | The Roarer | Om Rudraya Namah |
| Bahushirase | Many-headed | Om Bahushirase Namah |
| Babhruvahanaya | Rider of fierce chariot | Om Babhruvahanaya Namah |
| Subhruve | Of beautiful eyebrows | Om Subhruve Namah |
| Bhujangabhushanaya | Adorned with snakes | Om Bhujangabhushanaya Namah |
| Bhargaya | Of sage lineage | Om Bhargaya Namah |
| Giridhanvane | Wielder of mountain bow | Om Giridhanvane Namah |
| Girishaya | Lord of the Himalayas | Om Girishaya Namah |
| Anandabhairavaya | Blissful and terrifying | Om Anandabhairavaya Namah |
| Digvasase | Clothed in directions | Om Digvasase Namah |
| Kritivasaaya | Wearing animal skin | Om Kritivasaaya Namah |
| Srikanthaya | Of prosperous throat | Om Srikanthaya Namah |
| Shivaya | Auspicious One | Om Shivaya Namah |
| Sthanuve | Immovable One | Om Sthanuve Namah |
| Bhavyaya | The Sublime | Om Bhavyaya Namah |
Also know about 8 Forms of Shiva.
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Who is Lord Shiva?
Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadeva (The Great God), is one of the principal deities of Hinduism and a vital part of the Holy Trinity (Trimurti), along with Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the preserver). Shiva is the destroyer and transformer, symbolizing the end of illusion, ego, and negativity—making way for regeneration and spiritual evolution.
He is worshipped in both form and formless aspects. In his ascetic form, he sits deep in meditation on Mount Kailash, draped in tiger skin, with matted hair from which flows the sacred Ganga, a crescent moon on his head, and a serpent coiled around his neck. In his dynamic form, he performs the Tandava, the cosmic dance of creation and destruction.
Known by countless names—Shambhu, Shankar, Rudra, Bholenath, and Neelkanth—Lord Shiva embodies compassion, power, stillness, and fury all at once. He is worshipped as the Adiyogi, the first yogi, who revealed the science of yoga and spiritual discipline to the world.
Symbolism Behind 108 Names of Lord Shiva
The number 108 is no ordinary number in Hinduism—it is sacred, cosmic, and spiritually charged. When we chant the 108 Names of Shiva, we are not merely reciting names; we are aligning ourselves with the deeper rhythm of the universe.
But why 108?
In the Vedic tradition, 108 represents the wholeness of existence—a number that connects the microcosm (you) with the macrocosm (the universe). According to yogic science and ancient wisdom:
- There are 108 energy lines (nadis) converging to form the heart chakra.
- The sun is approximately 108 times the diameter of Earth away from us.
- A japa mala (prayer bead garland) contains 108 beads, used to chant mantras, especially the Mahadeva 108 names.
- There are said to be 108 Upanishads, the essence of Vedic wisdom.
Each of the 108 names of Shiva in English or Sanskrit reflects a unique quality, story, or form of the Lord—some portray his fierce energy (like Rudra), others reflect his gentle nature (like Ashutosh, the easily pleased one). Some names highlight his cosmic roles (like Mahakaal – Lord of Time), while others show his connection with nature, meditation, or compassion.
In chanting these names, devotees:
- Purify the mind,
- Align their breath and energy,
- Invoke the divine presence of Shiva in every aspect of life.
Benefits of Chanting 108 Names of Lord Shiva
Each name holds a unique vibration, and collectively, these names invoke Shiva’s many qualities: compassion, strength, wisdom, detachment, and bliss.
The following are the powerful benefits of chanting 108 names of Shiva:
Spiritual Upliftment
Reciting the Mahadeva 108 names helps purify the soul, dissolve karmic blocks, and awaken spiritual consciousness. It draws you closer to Shiva’s cosmic presence and opens the heart to divine grace.
Mental Peace and Clarity
Chanting Shiva’s names creates a meditative rhythm that calms the mind, reduces stress, and promotes inner stillness. It helps release anxiety, anger, and overthinking.
Protection and Positivity
Lord Shiva is known as the destroyer of evil and negativity. Regular chanting acts like a spiritual shield, protecting the devotee from unseen dangers, inner conflicts, and negative energies.
Health and Healing
Shiva is associated with cosmic balance and purification. Chanting His names enhances the flow of prana (life energy), helping in emotional healing and even aiding physical well-being through reduced stress and increased vitality.
Overcoming Ego and Attachments
Many of the 108 names of Shiva reflect His detachment from worldly illusions. Chanting these names helps practitioners gradually let go of pride, desires, and material attachments.
Devotional Connection (Bhakti)
Chanting builds a personal, heartfelt connection with Shiva. It fosters devotion (bhakti), surrender, and unconditional love for the divine, making one feel seen, heard, and guided.
Mantra Shakti (Power of Sound)
Each name is like a mantra, vibrating with divine sound energy (nada). Regular chanting develops powerful mantra shakti, helping manifest inner strength, clarity, and spiritual growth.
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Improved Focus and Discipline
Following a daily practice of chanting the 108 names builds mental focus, emotional discipline, and mindfulness—qualities essential for both spiritual seekers and householders.
Balancing the Chakras
The repetition of divine names helps activate and balance the chakras, especially the heart, throat, and third eye chakras—leading to greater harmony within.
Fulfillment of Desires (Ishtha Siddhi)
When done with pure intent and devotion, chanting can help manifest noble desires, remove life obstacles, and lead to Ishtha Siddhi—fulfillment through divine will.
How to Chant 108 Names of Shiva?
When performed with devotion (bhakti), awareness, and discipline, the chanting of 108 Shiva names connects the soul with the infinite energy of Mahadeva, helping you experience inner peace, clarity, and divine protection.
1. Choose the Right Time
Early morning (Brahma Muhurta) is ideal for spiritual practices. Mondays, Maha Shivratri, Pradosham days, and Shravan month are especially powerful for Shiva worship.
However, you can chant anytime with sincerity and focus.
2. Create a Sacred Space
Sit in a clean, quiet space or in front of a Shiva idol or Shivalinga. Light a diya (lamp) and incense. Keep a Rudraksha mala (108 beads) if you wish to count repetitions.
3. Prepare Your Mind and Body
Take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Sit in Padmasana or Sukhasana with a straight spine. Offer a silent prayer or “Om Namah Shivaya” to invoke Lord Shiva’s presence.
Must Read: Top Bhagavad Gita Slokas.
4. Chant With Devotion
Recite each of the 108 names slowly and clearly. You may chant in Sanskrit for vibrational power or in English to connect with the meaning. Feel the energy of each name as you speak it—invoke the quality it represents.
5. Use a Rudraksha Mala (Optional)
Hold the mala in your right hand. Use your thumb and middle finger to rotate the beads—never touch with your index finger. One name per bead = one full round of 108 names.
6. Maintain Bhava (Spiritual Emotion)
Don’t rush through the chant. Focus on devotion, surrender, and connection with Lord Shiva. You can visualize his form—sitting on Mount Kailash, performing the Tandava, or as the infinite light.
7. Repeat Daily or Weekly
Consistency builds spiritual energy. Even chanting once a week on Mondays can bring profound benefits. Over time, this becomes a meditative and transformational part of your spiritual life.
8. Conclude with Gratitude
Offer a closing prayer or simply bow your head. You may end with “Om Namah Shivaya” or a Shiva Aarti. Sit in silence for a few moments to absorb the energy of the chant.
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108 Names of Shiva vs Ashtottara Shatanamavali
| Aspect | 108 Names of Shiva | Ashtottara Shatanamavali |
| Meaning | List of 108 sacred names | Garland of 108 names (ritual format) |
| Language | Sanskrit, English, Translations | Mostly Sanskrit |
| Usage | Chanting, devotion, learning | Puja, archana, ritual chanting |
| Format | Name + Meaning (list format) | Om [Name] Namah (mantra format) |
| Common in | Blogs, Bhajans, Meditation | Temples, Worship Rituals |
Connection of 108 Shiva Names to Other Shiva Mantras
Let’s explore how the 108 names connect with other revered Shiva mantras:
Om Namah Shivaya – The Panchakshari Mantra
One of the most sacred mantras in Shaivism, meaning “I bow to Lord Shiva.”
It is the essence of the 108 names—every name is an extension of this five-syllable mantra (Na–Ma–Shi–Va–Ya). Chanting the 108 names strengthens the energy of Om Namah Shivaya, and vice versa.
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
“Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam…”
Known as the Great Death-Conquering Mantra, it calls upon Tryambaka—one of Shiva’s 108 names. This mantra and the 108 names both invoke Shiva’s powers of healing, protection, and transformation.
Reciting both together enhances the effect of emotional, mental, and spiritual renewal.
Shiva Sahasranama (1000 Names of Shiva)
While the 108 names offer a concise and accessible path, the Sahasranama (1000 names) is a more elaborate praise.
Many of the 108 names appear in the Sahasranama, and chanting them both helps explore the infinite nature of Shiva in greater depth.
Rudram Chamakam (Sri Rudram)
A Vedic chant from the Yajurveda, Sri Rudram addresses Shiva in his Rudra form. It includes several of the Mahadeva 108 names and is often chanted during Rudra Abhishekam.
The power of the Rudram is amplified when paired with the daily chanting of the 108 names.
Lingashtakam & Other Stotras
Stotras like Lingashtakam, Shivapanchakshara Stotra, and Shiva Tandava Stotram are devotional hymns that echo Shiva’s names and glory.
These are poetic complements to the 108 names and are often chanted together in rituals and festivals.
Ashtottara Shatanamavali
As covered earlier, this is the ritualistic format of the 108 names used in temple pujas and Abhishekam.
Together with mantras like Om Namah Shivaya, it creates a complete cycle of bhakti (devotion) and upasana (worship).
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FAQs About 108 Names of Lord Shiva
Yes, chanting them daily is highly beneficial for spiritual growth, peace, and divine protection.
They are originally in Sanskrit, but can be chanted in English or other languages for understanding.
A Rudraksha mala with 108 beads can help maintain focus and count, but it’s optional.
It’s best to chant mindfully in a quiet, undisturbed setting, but mental repetition during simple tasks is also beneficial.
Yes. There are no gender restrictions in Shiva worship.
Chanting is still beneficial due to the mantra’s vibrations, but understanding adds deeper connection.
Roughly 15–20 minutes, depending on your pace and style.
Absolutely. The repetition creates rhythm and concentration, aiding deeper meditation.
Yes. You can visualize Shiva in your mind or focus on a photo or symbol like the Shiva Lingam.
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