The Mystical Reality and Worship of Shiva Lingam

In the Hindu religion, the Shiva Lingam has always been a venerable symbol for the worship of Lord Shiva. The Shiva Lingam, which is often misunderstood or misinterpreted, is a profound representation in Sanskrit literature, particularly in the Shiva Purana. This article delves deep into the symbolism, origin, and significance of the Shiva Lingam, exploring why and how people worship this holy emblem.

Why is Shiva worshipped as a Lingam?

The concept of Shiva as a Lingam is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, particularly in Saivite traditions. According to these traditions, the Lingam symbolizes the nameless and formless attributes of the divine. The Shiva Purana, Vidyesvarasamhita Chapter 5, explains:

The Saivites use the linga form to signify the nameless and formless aspects of the deity. This is why Lord Shiva is often worshipped in the form of a Lingam.

The Shiva Purana goes on to describe the significance of the Lingam, stating:

There are many holy centers and shrines that sprang up due to the manifestation of the Lingam. For instance, the Linga form appeared on the day of Ardra star in November-December, and this field where it manifested is known as Lingasthana. Worship of the Linga confers enjoyment and salvation. It helps in warding off future births and is a means to attain moksha or liberation.

Where does the Linga form come from?

The origin of the Linga form is traced back to a legendary incident. According to the Shiva Purana, Vidyesvarasamhita Chapter 9.15-22, Shiva manifested himself as a column of fire on the field of Kurukshetra during the Mahabharata war. This incident occurred during the occurrence of the Ardra star in the month of Marga-sirsa (November-December).

“He who sees me on the day of Ardra in the month of Marga-sirsa and worships my Linga emblem or embodied image is dearer to me than even Guha Kartikeya. On that auspicious day, Sivaratri, the vision alone accords ample results. If he worships too, the result cannot be adequately described.”

The manifestation of the Linga form in the battlefield signifies its eternal and unchanging nature, making it the most revered form of Shiva.

Philosophical Meaning of the Linga

The term linga is rich in philosophical significance. In the Sivanubhava Sutra 3.3, it is defined as:

That in which all mobiles and immobiles enter i.e. get dissolved and from which the universe is created is Linga.

The Linga is seen as equivalent to Brahman in Vedanta, representing the infinite tower of light and the formless aspect of Shiva. The word linga is derived from the Sanskrit roots li (to dissolve) and gam (to go, to be manifested or created).

The Linga is often accompanied by the Yoni, representing the source of creation. This is a representation of the spiritual knowledge and is often worshipped by devout Hindus. For example:

Obeisance to Siva the quiescent Brahman in the form of Linga whose symbol is wreaths of flames and is of the form of a column of fire.

The Ardhanarisvara, or the Lord with the form of a woman in one half, represents the union of the Linga and the pedestal, symbolizing the completeness and unity of the divine.

Conclusion

The Shiva Lingam is more than just a symbolic representation; it is a profound expression of the philosophical and spiritual aspects of the Hindu tradition. The worship of Shiva Lingam is a path towards spiritual enlightenment, leading devotees to a deeper understanding of the divine and the universe.

For the devout, the Shiva Lingam is a portal to the infinite, connecting them to the transcendent essence of Lord Shiva. Whether in its faceless form (Sthanu Linga) or with a full form (Vigraha Linga), the Linga remains a timeless icon of devotion and spiritual wisdom.