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Significance of Five faces

The concept of Five faces signifies the multifaceted nature of deities, particularly Lord Shiva and certain Goddesses. This term encompasses various representations, including Shiva's different attributes and powers, as each face embodies unique qualities. Additionally, it highlights aspects of other divine figures, illustrating their diverse manifestations and the symbolic significance behind these representations. The Five faces collectively symbolize omnipotence, the connection to different directions, and the essence of divine grace within ritualistic practices across various traditions, including Shaktism and Purana.1
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In Dutch: Vijf gezichten; In Finnish: Viisi naamaa; In Spanish: Cinco caras; In German: F眉nf Gesichter

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Five faces'

Hinduism Books

The "Five faces" in Hinduism symbolize the multifaceted nature of deities, particularly Shiva, embodying diverse aspects of reality, divine power, and grace, while also representing various attributes during rituals and meditative forms across traditions.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) The multiple manifestations of the Gayatri Devi, each representing various attributes and powers.[1]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)

(1) A characteristic of Arddha-narishvara, indicating multifacetedness or multi-dimensionality in divine representation.[2]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

The concept of Five faces in local and regional sources

History Books

The term "Five faces" symbolizes the diverse aspects of Mahadev, showcasing his complex personality and multifaceted nature through distinct representations that highlight different attributes and roles within spiritual and cultural contexts.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) The multiple aspects or representations of Mahadev, indicating his multifaceted nature.[3]