Shaivism is a major tradition within Hinduism, centered around the worship of Shiva as the supreme being. It is believed to be one of the oldest and most widely practiced forms of Hinduism, with a rich history and diverse set of beliefs.

One of the main beliefs of Shaivism is the concept of Shiva as the ultimate reality, known as Brahman. Shaivites believe that Shiva is the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of the universe, and that all other gods and goddesses are manifestations of his divine energy. This belief is rooted in the ancient Hindu scriptures, such as the Vedas and the Puranas, which describe Shiva as the supreme being.

Another important belief in Shaivism is the idea of duality and unity. Shaivites believe that Shiva and his consort, Shakti, represent the dual aspects of the universe – the masculine and feminine energies. They are seen as equal and complementary forces, and their union is believed to bring balance and harmony to the world.

Shaivism also places a strong emphasis on the concept of karma and reincarnation. According to this belief, the actions of an individual in their current life will determine their fate in the next life. Shaivites believe that through devotion and good deeds, one can break the cycle of reincarnation and attain moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Devotion to Shiva is a central aspect of Shaivism, and it takes many forms. Some Shaivites focus on rituals and ceremonies, while others engage in meditation and spiritual practices to connect with Shiva. The ultimate goal of devotion is to achieve a deep understanding of the nature of Shiva and to merge with him in a state of bliss.

Shaivism also has a strong belief in the power of mantras and sacred sounds. The most well-known mantra in Shaivism is the "Om Namah Shivaya" mantra, which is believed to have the power to purify the mind and bring one closer to Shiva.

In addition to these core beliefs, Shaivism also encompasses a wide range of traditions, practices, and rituals that vary across different regions and sects. However, at its core, Shaivism is a path of devotion and surrender to Shiva, with the ultimate goal of attaining union with the divine.