Significance of Shivalinga
Synonyms: Shiva lingam, Phallic symbol, Divine representation, Sacred symbol, Linga
In Dutch: Shivalinga; In Finnish: Shivalinga
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Shivalinga'
The Shivalinga in Hinduism serves as a sacred representation of Lord Shiva, embodying divine qualities and creativity. It symbolizes spiritual connection and is central to numerous worship practices, reflecting various aspects of Shiva’s essence and power.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A representation of the deity Shiva, which plays a pivotal role in the plot, particularly regarding the devotion of Mahananda and the Vaishya.[1] (2) A sacred symbol of Lord Shiva, which embodies divine qualities and is a site of worship.[2] (3) A symbolic representation of the deity Shiva found by the servant, believed to bring good fortune.[3] (4) Symbolic representations of Lord Shiva that devotees bow down to and worship in various forms.[4] (5) A symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, which in this context is named Sangaleshvara, known for its auspicious qualities and powers to destroy sins.[5]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The sacred representation of Shiva, often depicted in the phallic form, signifying divine energy and creation.[6] (2) The phallic image representing Shiva, central to the worship rituals.[7] (3) A sacred representation of Shiva that Kashyapa installed as part of his penance and worship.[8] (4) A representation of the god Shiva, which the cowherd's son creates out of a pebble.[9] (5) Sacred representations of Lord Shiva worshipped in various holy centres, associated with granting worldly pleasures and salvation.[10]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A representation of Lord Shiva in the form of a stone, which is worshipped by devotees for blessings and spiritual grace.[11] (2) The symbol of Lord Shiva worshipped during the holy rites, embodying the divine and the auspicious.[12]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) A symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, located in a temple where Sukama worshipped.[13]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A representation of Lord Shiva, which is highlighted for its holiness within the narratives of the Vamana Purana.[14]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The representation of Lord Shiva in the form of a Linga, which the sages adopted for worship after realizing their mistake.[15]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A symbol of Lord Shiva worshipped by Ravana that is believed to deliver beings from suffering.[16]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The Shiva-linga at Ambu-linga is made of water and has a silver half-moon on its forehead.[17] (2) A symbol of the god Shiva, noted as a point of interest for some persons regarding the village Maureshvara.[18] (3) A representation of the Hindu god Shiva, often symbolizing the cosmic pillar and is worshiped in various forms.[19] (4) Sacred representations of Lord Shiva that are worshiped within the temple walls.[20] (5) Ten million representations of Lord Shiva found at the holy site of Shri Bhuvaneshvara.[21]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Representation of Lord Shiva present in a village where Lord Gaura bowed down and proceeded on his journey.[22]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) The phallic symbol representing Shiva, often worshipped as a manifestation of the divine in Saivist practices.[23] (2) Sacred representations of the god Siva, particularly focused on their significance and archaeological finds in regions like Thailand.[24] (3) A symbolic representation of the Hindu god Shiva, often depicted with the phallic form, signifying his power of creation and auspiciousness.[25]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The sacred symbol representing Lord Shiva in which His presence is invoked for purity and auspiciousness.[26] (2) The object of worship in Shaivism, symbolizing the presence and essence of Shiva.[27] (3) An iconic representation of Shiva, embodying the formed-formless aspect of God, found in nearly all Shiva temples.[28]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) A symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, particularly in the form worshipped during Kriya practices.[29]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) A revered symbol associated with the worship of Lord Shiva, which Rama installed and began his vow.[30] (2) Shiva Linga represents the multitude of manifestations of Shiva, connecting the divine with the physical and symbolizing the creative forces of the universe.[31]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) The great image of Shiva that was worshipped on the mountain at Shrishaila.[32]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) A sacred representation of Lord Shiva, which was installed by Ganesha at Gokarna.[33] (2) A representation of Lord Shiva that plays a significant role in the narrative and serves as a focal point for devotion.[34]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) A symbol or representation of Shiva, often used in rituals and worship within Hindu practices.[35]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) A gesture formed by the left hand in Ardha-candra and the right hand in Shikhara, associated with the deity Shiva.[36]
The concept of Shivalinga in local and regional sources
Shivalinga symbolizes Lord Shiva, serving as a focal point for worship in Hindu practices. It is revered by communities like Tinnan's and Ram Mohan's, illustrating its sacred role in spiritual devotion and temple rituals.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A symbolic representation of Siva, often associated with various forms of worship and historical artifacts.[37] (2) A representation of Lord Shiva used in worship, which Ram Mohan's community holds sacred and is defended by Ramkanta.[38] (3) A symbolic representation of Lord Siva that Tinnan discovers and begins to worship fervently.[39]
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) Symbolic representations of the god Shiva, commonly found in temples dedicated to him in Hindu practices.[40]