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Rigveda
About the Rigveda
The Rigveda is the oldest known Vedic Sanskrit text. It consists of 1,028 hymns composed in praise of the gods. Shiva appears in the Rigveda as Rudra — the fierce and compassionate deity of storms.
Major Incidents & References
The Hymn of Rudra (Rigveda 2.33)
One of the most ancient hymns to Rudra, this Rigvedic hymn praises the healer god who sends disease and also cures it. He is invoked as a father who shows mercy to his children.
Famous Stories
Maruts — The Storm Companions of Rudra
The Maruts are described as the sons of Rudra and Prisni. They accompany Indra in battle but ultimately serve Rudra as the storm gods. Their story reflects the dual nature of Shiva — creator and destroyer.