Myth and Truth of Shivling – The Shivling, a revered symbol in Hinduism, holds multiple stories and meanings. Unfortunately, it has been misconstrued as a representation of male genitalia. In this post, we delve into the myth and truth behind the Shivling, drawing insights from the Shiv Purana. Let us understand the various aspects of this sacred symbol and the worship of Lord Shiva.
Truth of Shivling: Exploring the Symbolism and Worship of Lord Shiva
I. The Formless Existence of Lord Shiva:
Lord Shiva, known as the “Brahma Roop,” transcends physical form and shape. Instead, his formless (निराकार) existence is symbolized through the Shivling. It is important to recognize that the Shivling does not depict male genitalia but represents the divine essence of Lord Shiva.
II. The Worship of Lord Shiva in Deity Form:
Apart from the formless Shivling, Lord Shiva is also worshipped in the deity form (साकार), where he appears as an idol in temples. Both forms hold significant reverence and are integral to Lord Shiva’s worship.
III. The Story Behind the Shivling Worship:
A. The Encounter on Mandarachal Mountain:
On Mandarachal mountain, Sanat Kumar inquired about the origins of the Shivling worship from Nandi, Lord Shiva’s mount.
B. The Pillar of Light:
Nandi narrated a story where Lord Shiva manifested as a “pillar of light” (Jyotirstambha – ज्योतीस्तंभ) and challenged Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu to find its top and bottom ends.
C. The Search for the Ends:
- Lord Brahma’s Quest: Lord Brahma embarked on finding the top end of the pillar, attempting to prove his superiority.
- Lord Vishnu’s Quest: Simultaneously, Lord Vishnu endeavored to locate the bottom end of the pillar, engaging in the divine pursuit.
D. Lord Brahma’s Deception and the Curse:
- Brahma’s False Claim: Unable to find either end of the infinite pillar, Lord Brahma deceitfully claimed to have discovered the top end.
- The Ketaki Flower’s Role: To substantiate his claim, Lord Brahma convinced the ketaki flower to serve as a witness.
- Lord Shiva’s Curse: Lord Shiva, aware of the deceit, cursed the ketaki flower never to be used in his worship and declared that Lord Brahma would not be revered like the other gods.
E. The Transformation of the Pillar into the Shivling:
- Worship by Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu: Following the incident, Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu worshipped the pillar form of Lord Shiva.
- Lord Shiva’s Conversion: To facilitate the devatas’ reverence and wish fulfillment, Lord Shiva transformed the pillar into the Shivling, a symbol of his divine presence.
F. Significance of Shivratri:
The day of this transformation came to be known as Shivratri, a significant occasion for worshipping Lord Shiva in the lingam form. Lord Shiva promised blessings to those who worshiped him on Shivratri.
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IV. The Preferred Way to Worship Lord Shiva:
As per the Shiva Purana, the Shivling holds utmost significance in worshipping Lord Shiva. Devotees are advised to chant “Om Namah Shivay – ॐ नमः शिवाय” while worshipping the Shivling and recite the “Shiva Panchakshara Stotram” when revering the idol form of Lord Shiva.
Conclusion: The Myth and Truth of Shivling
The Shivling represents the formless existence of Lord Shiva, and it is revered and worshipped in temples across the world. It is crucial to dispel the misconception regarding its symbolism. By understanding the myth and truth behind the Shivling, we can engage in a more profound and meaningful worship of Lord Shiva.
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