सुखदाता

Meaning

The Giver of Happiness. This is the penultimate name before the final climax. Sukhadata is the result of the entire journey. After all the struggles, meditations, and realizations, the final state is simply 'Sukha'—a deep, unshakeable happiness. He doesn't give temporary pleasure, but the happiness that comes from knowing you are loved by the divine. He is the guardian of our smile, the laughter in our homes, and the peace in our hearts. He reminds us that the goal of all spirituality is to be happy.

Story · From tradition

The Skanda Purana describes Shiva as the 'Sarva-Sukha-Pradayaka'—the one who grants every kind of happiness. It is said that even a moment spent in the presence of Shiva (or his name) can erase lifetimes of sorrow. The story of the poor brahmin Sudama-like devotees who were blessed by Shiva shows that he delights in giving happiness to those who have nothing. He is the one who turned the poison of the world into the nectar of bliss for his devotees. He proved that his very nature is 'Ananda' (bliss) and his mission is to share it. Source: Skanda Purana and Shiva Sahasranama.