The Incineration of Desire
Kamadeva, the god of love, was sent by the Devas to awaken Shiva’s desire so that he may unite with Parvati and beget a powerful son who could defeat the demon Tarakasura. As Kamadeva disturbed Shiva’s deep meditation, Shiva opened his third eye in fury and incinerated Kamadeva instantly into ashes. Later, moved by the pleas of Rati (Kamadeva’s wife) and understanding the divine necessity of the act, Shiva granted Kamadeva a formless, subtle existence.
- Mastery over desire is essential for spiritual growth.
- Divine will transcends worldly temptations.
- Love, when purified, leads to higher purpose and dharma.
- The power of tapas (austerity) is immense, but can be disturbed by distractions.
Shiva
The ascetic who transcends desire
Kamadeva
God of Love
Parvati
Performs penance to win Shiva's love through devotion
Rati
Kamadeva's consort
fire_of_third_eye
Represents supreme wisdom and the destruction of ego and desire
formlessness_of_kama
Symbolizes transcendence of sensual desire into divine will
divine_love
Teaches the path from physical longing to spiritual union