Shiv Bhakti as described by Lord Shiva Himself

Shiv Bhakti as described by Lord Shiva Himself

Lord Shiva says- There is no difference between Bhakti (Devotion) and Gyan (Knowledge). Both the Devotee and Gyani (knower of Truth) get eternal bliss. But he, who is opposed to Bhakti or Devotion does not get Knowledge. I am always under the control of my devotee who has devotion for me. With the power of Bhakti I am attracted even to the devotees of the lower caste and visit their homes. Amongst the types of Devotion, the best are – Vaidhi (duly inspired by Shastra or Scriptures) and Swabhaviki (driven by natural emotion of the heart). Another kind of devotion is - devotion driven by an intent or desire. But it is of the inferior kind. Also there are nine sub-types of devotion. They are – Shravana, Kirtana, Smarana, Sevana, Dasya, Archana, Shiva Vandana, Sakhya and Atma Samarpana. In the Trilokas (The Three Worlds) and in every Yugas (Ages) there is no other path which is as blissful as Bhakti or Devotion. And in the Kali Yug (Current Age) this path of Devotion is pleasant and convenient. Those people who are my devotees are always protected by me. I take away all their obstacles. Those who are their enemies are undoubtedly punished by me. I am the protector of my devotees.
[Reference: Samkhipt Shiva Puran in Hindi published by Gita Press, Gorakhpur]