Origin of the Name Rudra

The name Rudra holds deep meaning in our texts and traditions. According to the Nirukta, Rudra is connected to the gods of the middle region, or the space between the earth and heavens. This space is where Rudra resides, making roaring sounds and moving through the clouds, causing rain to fall.

The word 'Ru' means to make a sound. Rudra's name is often linked to his crying or loud roar. In fact, crying is one of the key reasons why he is called Rudra. This is confirmed by ancient branches of knowledge like the Katha and Haridravika traditions. They tell us that Rudra’s 'cry' is what defines his name.

There is an interesting story that supports this idea. Rudra once saw his father, Prajapati, hurt by an arrow. In deep grief, Rudra cried. This crying, or 'rodana', is what gave him the name Rudra. Scholars see this as a historical reason for the name.

Rudra is a unique figure. Some texts say that there is only one Rudra, while others mention that there are countless Rudras on earth. The Nirukta scholars help us understand this better. They explain that each god has many names because of their greatness, but these names do not refer to different gods. Instead, they point to one god who is seen in many forms.

This is compared to a human nation. In a nation, people have different appearances, colors, and backgrounds, yet they all belong to one nation. In the same way, the gods may have different names and forms, but they are part of one divine reality. Even if one verse says "there is only one Rudra" and another says "there are thousands of Rudras," these do not contradict each other. They reflect the oneness within the many.

Additionally, the fire god Agni is also called Rudra. This shows that the name Rudra can mean different things in different contexts. According to the Nirukta scholars, Rudra can even be one of the names of the Supreme God. 

Rudra’s presence is not limited to one place. He is everywhere  on earth, in space, and in the higher worlds. Because of this unity of place, all the names of the gods in different places can refer to one unique Supreme God (Rudra).

Knowledge Bank

How is listening important in Karma-marga?

Karma-marga is based on the Vedas. Vedas are always taught orally, by listening. Books are not used for teaching Vedas.

Who is Maya Sita?

According to Devi Bhagavata, during vanavasa Agni Bhagavan came to Lord Rama and told him that time has come for him to eliminate Ravana. As a provocation for this, Ravana will abduct Sita Devi. To make sure that she doesn't become impure because of Ravana touching her, Agni would create a replica of Sita Devi and keep the original Devi with him. This replica is Maya Sita. Ravana will be able to abduct only Maya Sita. After destroying Ravana when they return to Ayodhya, Sita will be compelled to enter into the fire to prove her purity. At that time, Agni Bhagavan will take back Maya Sita and the original Devi will come out. Lord Rama agreed.