Śiva-Tattva From a Vaishnava Perspective

Abstract

The article Śiva-Tattva From a Vaishnava Perspective by Demian Martins analyzes the ontological status of Shiva within Gauḍīya Vaishnava theology. Drawing on scriptural sources such as the Brahma-saṁhitā and Bhāgavata Purāṇa, Martins explains the concept of Śiva-Tattva as a unique transformation of Vishnu through contact with material energy. The article employs the metaphor of milk turning into yogurt to depict Shiva’s distinct identity—neither a jīva nor a full expansion of Viṣṇu.