Shaivism, also known as Shaivaism, is a major branch of Hinduism that worships Shiva as the supreme deity. It is one of the oldest and most widespread traditions of Hinduism, with its roots dating back to ancient India. Shaivism is primarily followed in the Indian subcontinent, but it also has a significant presence in Southeast Asia.

The scriptures followed in Shaivism are known as the Agamas. These are a collection of texts that are considered to be the revealed teachings of Shiva. The word 'Agama' means 'tradition' or 'doctrine' and is derived from the Sanskrit word 'agama', which means 'coming near' or 'approach'. These texts are believed to have been revealed to the ancient sages and seers through divine revelation.

The Agamas are considered to be the authoritative source of knowledge and practice in Shaivism. They contain a wide range of teachings, including philosophy, theology, ritual practices, and spiritual disciplines. The Agamas are divided into four main categories based on their content: Shaiva Siddhanta, Kashmir Shaivism, Pashupata Shaivism, and Shaiva Agamas.

Shaiva Siddhanta is the most widely followed tradition of Shaivism and is based on the Shaiva Agamas. It is a dualistic philosophy that emphasizes the ultimate reality of Shiva as the supreme being, and the individual soul's goal is to attain union with Shiva. The Shaiva Siddhanta texts include the Shiva Puranas, the Tirumurai, and the Shiva Samhitas.

Kashmir Shaivism is a non-dualistic tradition of Shaivism, which focuses on the oneness of the individual soul and Shiva. It is based on the Shaiva Agamas and is known for its emphasis on spiritual practices such as meditation and yoga. The main texts of Kashmir Shaivism are the Shiva Sutras, the Spanda Karikas, and the Pratyabhijnahrdayam.

Pashupata Shaivism is a tradition that combines elements of Shaivism and Shaiva Siddhanta. It is based on the Pashupata Sutras, which are considered to be the oldest Shaiva Agamas. This tradition emphasizes the importance of devotion and service to Shiva, and its followers are known as Pashupatas.

Apart from these main traditions, there are also other Shaiva texts such as the Shiva Samhitas, the Vira Shaiva texts, and the Linga Purana, which are also considered to be authoritative scriptures in Shaivism.

In addition to the Agamas, Shaivism also draws inspiration from the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita. These texts are considered to be the foundation of Hinduism and are also used in the worship and practices of Shaivism.

In conclusion, the Agamas are the primary scriptures followed in Shaivism, and they provide a