Shivaism and Krishnaism; what is the fundamental difference?

Shivaism and Krishnaism are two major sects within Hinduism, each centered around the worship of a specific deity. While both sects share many common beliefs and principles, they also have some fundamental differences. Here's an overview of the key distinctions:
1. Central Deity: Shivaism revolves around the worship of Lord Shiva, who is considered the Supreme God and the destroyer of evil. Shiva is seen as the embodiment of the absolute reality and the ultimate source of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Krishnaism, on the other hand, centers around the worship of Lord Krishna, who is revered as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu and a manifestation of divine love, joy, and wisdom.
2. Theological Emphasis: Shivaism places a strong emphasis on asceticism, meditation, and yogic practices. Devotees of Shiva often pursue a path of renunciation and seek liberation (moksha) through self-realization and union with the divine. In contrast, Krishnaism focuses on devotional love (bhakti) towards Krishna. Followers of Krishna engage in devotional practices such as chanting, singing hymns, and engaging in acts of loving service to the deity.
3. Scriptural Texts: Shivaism draws heavily from the Shaiva Agamas, a collection of scriptures that contain philosophical teachings, rituals, and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Shiva Puranas also provide narratives and legends associated with Lord Shiva. In Krishnaism, the primary scriptural text is the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna. The Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhagavata Purana) and the Mahabharata also contain important narratives related to Krishna's life and teachings.
4. Concept of God: In Shivaism, Lord Shiva is considered the supreme deity, and all other deities, including Vishnu and Shakti (the divine feminine), are seen as manifestations or aspects of Shiva. Shiva is often depicted as the formless, transcendent reality beyond attributes. In Krishnaism, Lord Krishna is worshipped as the Supreme God himself, the source of all existence and the ultimate reality. Krishna is seen as having both a transcendent and an immanent form, capable of engaging in personal relationships with devotees.
5. Philosophy and Cosmology: Shivaism is associated with the philosophical school of Shaivism, which explores concepts such as monism (the belief in the oneness of the ultimate reality), non-dualism, and the interplay of energy (Shakti) and consciousness (Shiva). Krishnaism aligns with Vaishnavism, a school of thought that upholds theism, the belief in a personal God with whom devotees can have a loving relationship. Vaishnavism also encompasses the philosophy of Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism).
It's important to note that these distinctions are not rigid or exclusive, and there is often overlap and integration between different sects and their practices within Hinduism. Many Hindus hold reverence for both Shiva and Krishna, recognizing them as different aspects of the divine. Ultimately, both Shivaism and Krishnaism offer paths for spiritual growth and the attainment of union with the divine, albeit with different theological emphases and approaches.