SHIVA LINGAM – THE OMNIPOTENT (PART-2)

What is Shiva Lingam:

In Sanskrit, Linga means a “mark” or a symbol, which points to an inference. Thus the Shiva Linga is a symbol of Lord Shiva: a mark that reminds of the Omnipotent Lord, which is formless. Shiva Lingam is only the outward symbol of the formless being, Lord Shiva, who is the undying soul seated in the chambers of your heart. He is innermost self or Atman, and who is identical with the supreme Brahman.

A Shiva Lingam consists of three parts.

1. The lowest of these is called the Brahma-Pitha (the creator);
2. The middle one, the Vishnu-Pitha (the preserver);
3. The uppermost one, the Shiva-Pitha (the destroyer).

The typically circular base or peetham (Brahma-Pitha) holds an elongated bowl-like structure (Vishnu-Pitha) reminiscent of a flat teapot with a spout that has had the top cut off. Within the bowl rests a tall cylinder with a rounded head (Shiva-Pitha).
Nandi, the bull is depicted facing the sanctum in all Saivite temples, symbolizing Jeevatma (the human soul) yearning for realizing its oneness with Paramatma (the ultimate reality). [1]

Significance of Shiva Lingam

The Shiva Lingam symbolises the universe as well as erect spine and concentrated mind in human beings.

1. In the universe, moons / planets / stars revolves around planet / star / other stars or cosmic bodies forming yoni or circle and the central cosmic body as lingam.
2. In human body, 7 chakras of the subtle body show the union of the Shiva and Shakti energies operative at its particular level of manifestation.
3. The Shiva energy is the upward current running through the spine (Sushumna) and the Shakti energy is the horizontal current through which it travels, forming the various lotuses of the chakras. Together they form a spiral of forces. Both forces are necessary to create this dynamic motion.

The experience of the Shiva lingam in Yogic meditation is an experience of a pillar of light, energy, peace and eternity, expanding the mind, opening the inner eye and bringing deep peace and steadiness to the heart. From it radiate waves, currents, circles and whirlpools of Shakti spreading this grace, love and wisdom to all. [2]

​Reference:

1. https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-shiva-linga-1770455
2. https://vedanet.com/2012/06/15/the-shiva-linga-and-its-meaning/