One-line: fierce Shiva-form whose tears become rudraksha beads.
First seen / best remembered: Treat as Shiva in a fierce/ritual register, especially Book 11’s rudraksha material (Book 11 retelling; atlas: ). For the broader deity, see .
Who they are: Rudra is the fierce register of Shiva highlighted in Book 11’s practice sections. The book uses Rudra to explain why rudraksha beads matter: they come from his tears and become a portable sign of devotion.
What they do that matters:
- His tears become rudraksha beads.
- Anchors the ash, forehead-mark, and Shaiva-Shakta practice material in Book 11.
Other names: Shiva, Mahadeva
Family / lineage (when relevant): A form/name of Shiva.