What is shiv
In Jainism, the word “Shiv” (शिव) has a different meaning than in Hinduism.
- Meaning of “Shiv” in Jain dharma
- “Shiv” means auspicious, welfare, peace, or the bliss of liberation (moksha). - It refers to the state of a liberated soul (Siddha) – completely free from karma, full of eternal peace and happiness. - Terms like “Shivpad” or “Shivavastha” are used for this highest spiritual state, not for a god.
- Not a god or creator in Jainism
- Jainism does not accept any creator‑god (like Shiva, Vishnu, etc.). - The highest ideals are Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu – and the path of Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct. - So “Shiv” in Jain usage is a state of the soul, not a deity.
- Same in both traditions
- Digambar and Shvetambar traditions both use “Shiv” mainly in this sense of auspicious / liberated state, not as a personal god.