Number three is a recurring theme in the philosophy and stories associated with Shiva. The most famous among them is the three eyes.
- Shiva has three eyes.
- Three horizontal ash lines on the forehead of the Shiva devotees.
- Bilva, the favorite plant, of Shiva is noted for its joined three leaves.
- The trident of Shiva has three blades.
Apart from this Shiva is believed to have destroyed Tripuri – the three impregnable forts of Demons.
Three represents the beyond – the world which we should aim for and reach – Sat Chit Ananda.
Shiva opens the third eye to destroy ignorance which is stopping us from attaining Moksha.