Shaivism is one of the major traditions within Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Shiva as the supreme being. It is believed to be one of the oldest forms of Hinduism, with its roots dating back to ancient times.

The term 'Shaivism' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Shiva', which means 'auspicious' or 'beneficent'. Shaivism is centered around the belief that Shiva is the creator, preserver, and destroyer of the universe. He is also known as the lord of meditation, yoga, and the ultimate source of knowledge.

Shaivism has a rich and diverse history, with different schools of thought and practices emerging over time. Some of the major schools of Shaivism include Kashmir Shaivism, Pashupata Shaivism, Lingayatism, and Shaiva Siddhanta.

One of the key aspects of Shaivism is the worship of Shiva in the form of a linga, which is a symbolic representation of the divine energy of Shiva. This practice is known as 'linga puja' and is considered to be one of the most sacred rituals in Shaivism. The linga is typically made of stone, metal, or clay and is often adorned with flowers, milk, and other offerings.

Another important aspect of Shaivism is the belief in the five faces of Shiva, each representing a different aspect of his personality - Sadyojata (the creator), Vamadeva (the preserver), Aghora (the destroyer), Tatpurusha (the observer), and Ishana (the supreme lord).

Shaivism also has a strong emphasis on meditation and yoga as a means to connect with Shiva and attain spiritual enlightenment. Many Shaivite texts, such as the Shiva Sutras and the Shiva Purana, emphasize the importance of these practices in achieving union with the divine.

In addition to the worship of Shiva, Shaivism also includes the worship of other deities, such as Shakti (the divine feminine energy) and Ganesha (the remover of obstacles). This reflects the belief that all beings are interconnected and that the ultimate goal of Shaivism is to attain oneness with the divine.

In conclusion, Shaivism is a rich and ancient tradition within Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Shiva as the supreme being. It emphasizes the importance of rituals, meditation, and yoga in connecting with the divine and attaining spiritual enlightenment.