Shambhu
शम्भु
Shambhu is the 9th of the Ekadasha Rudras, representing the most benevolent, bliss-bestowing, and auspicious aspect of Shiva. The name 'Shambhu' is derived from 'Sham' (happiness, bliss, prosperity) and 'bhu' (to be or to cause). He is the giver of peace and welfare, the Rudra who shines not in fury but in compassion, kindness, and grace. He represents Shiva as the cosmic benefactor, protector of devotees, and healer of sorrows.
Shambhu embodies **inner contentment, auspiciousness, divine kindness, and blissful transcendence**. He is often invoked at the beginning and end of Vedic rituals as the source of blessings. He is the serene flame in the heart, the silence after storm, and the deep joy that emerges through surrender.
As sages and beings became disheartened with the pain of life and harsh laws of karma, Shiva manifested Shambhu — the Rudra of auspicious peace — to **heal the world with compassion**, to **bless those in despair**, and to **uplift the righteous through unconditional love**. Unlike other Rudras who challenge and purify, Shambhu **gently elevates the soul with blissful awareness**.
Source Texts:
Appearance: Shambhu is portrayed as a **calm, smiling yogi** seated in **padmasana**, with **glowing white or golden aura**. His eyes are filled with compassion, and he radiates an aura of serenity and divine joy. He holds a **kamandalu (water pot)**, **rosary (japa mala)**, and often raises a hand in **abhaya mudra** (gesture of protection and peace). A crescent moon glows gently on his head.
Symbols
Weapons
Mount
Nandi (the calm, devoted bull)
Direction
Northeast (Ishanya)
Element
Akasha (Ether/Pure Space)
Shambhu represents Ananda (bliss), Shubha (auspiciousness), and Sharanagati (surrender). In Vedanta, he is associated with the bliss sheath (Anandamaya Kosha) and with the experience of Turiya — the fourth transcendent state. Shambhu teaches that grace, not effort alone, leads to moksha.
ॐ शम्भवे नमः
Translation: Om, salutations to Shambhu, the blissful and auspicious Lord.
Chanted for inner peace, overcoming sorrow, and invoking divine grace.
ॐ शम्भवे विद्महे शिवाय धीमहि। तन्नो रुद्रः प्रचोदयात्॥
Translation: We meditate on Shambhu, the blissful one; may that Rudra inspire us with divine peace.
Major Temples
Shambhu Mahadev Temple - Shambhu, Punjab, India
A rare shrine dedicated to the benevolent form of Shiva as Shambhu.
Jyotirlinga Shrines - Across India
Shambhu is invoked in all Shiva temples during daily blessings and arati chants.
Festivals
Maha Shivaratri: Shambhu is invoked for peace and joy during the nightlong worship of Shiva.
Shravan Mondays: Devotees seek Shambhu’s blessings during this sacred month dedicated to Shiva.