Shiva's first wife, known as the destroyer of the universe, is:

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Prepare for the Arizona State University REL100 Religions of the World Exam. Review with interactive quizzes, multiple choice questions, and explanations. Enhance your understanding of world religions today!

Shiva's first wife, often referred to in the context of the cosmic destructive aspect of the universe, is Kali. In Hindu mythology, Kali is depicted as a fierce and powerful goddess who embodies destruction but also transformation and liberation. She is associated with the annihilation of evil forces and the removal of obstacles, which is crucial in the cyclical nature of creation and destruction in Hindu beliefs.

Kali is often shown in a ferocious form, representing not just the destructive capability of the divine but also the necessary aspect of destruction that leads to rebirth and renewal. This aligns with her role as a counterpart to Shiva, who embodies the principle of destruction and transformation in the cosmic cycle.

In contrast, the other figures mentioned have different roles and attributes. Parvati, for instance, is considered Shiva's second wife and is associated with love, fertility, and devotion rather than destruction. Durga is also a goddess of power and protection, but she is primarily celebrated for her role in defeating evil and restoring dharma rather than as the destroyer of the universe in the same manner as Kali. Saraswati is regarded as the goddess of knowledge and arts, having no direct connection to the theme of destruction.

Thus, the identification of Kali as the first wife

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