Bholanath means "simple lord." Shiva's most common epithet.
The term bhola has a negative meaning in everyday usage: "simple," "guileless," and even "foolish."
Shiva's followers (bhakta) are not disparaging him by using this term to describe him; rather, they are praising his limitless generosity to those with whom he is delighted.
- Shiva's followers may make the most basic gifts (leaves, fruit, and water) and beg for riches, success, and power in exchange.
- Shiva's character is described as "simple" since he happily engages in such unequal transactions, which contrasts sharply with the global economy, which requires equal value.
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