Meaning and elaboration
Meaning: Salutations To The one who is ancient, venerable, and eternal.
Elaboration
The name Sthavira, meaning "ancient," "venerable," "firm," or "unmoving," points to Lord Shiva's eternal and timeless nature.
Ancient and Primordial This name emphasizes Shiva as the primordial being, who existed before creation and will continue to exist after its dissolution. He is not bound by the cycles of time; rather, time originates from him. In the Puranas, Sthavira is listed as one of Shiva's thousand names (Sahasranamavali), denoting his role as the eternal elder, the *Adi-Purusha>(the first, ancient Purusha).
Venerable and Wise Sthavira also conveys the sense of venerable wisdom. As the ancient one, he has witnessed countless cycles of creation and destruction, embodying supreme knowledge and experience. This aspect suggests a profound state of spiritual maturity, deserving of the deepest respect and reverence. He is the preceptor of all knowledge, especially the esoteric wisdom of the tantras.
Firm and Unmoving The term "firm" or "unmoving" highlights Shiva's unwavering and unchanging nature amidst the transient universe. He is the still point in the ever-moving cosmos, the immutable reality that underpins all change. This signifies his transcendental state, untouched by the fluctuations of time, space, and causality. He represents the ultimate stability and foundation of existence.
Eternal and Timeless As Sthavira, Kalabhairava is affirmed as being beyond the limitations of time. He is *kala-bāhya>(outside of time), and yet, as Kāla, he is also the controller and devourer of time itself. This dual aspect signifies his supreme dominion over temporal existence while simultaneously existing in an eternal, timeless state.
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