Collection: Shiva Lingam

The Shiva Lingam (or simply Lingam ) is a central symbol in Hinduism, particularly in the worship of Shiva , one of the major gods of the Hindu Trinity (alongside Brahma and Vishnu).

🔷 Definition and meaning

• The word Lingam literally means "sign" or "symbol" .

• The Shiva Lingam represents Shiva in his abstract, non-anthropomorphic form.

• It symbolizes the creative energy of the universe, the union of the masculine (Shiva) and the feminine (Shakti, often represented by the base called Yoni ).

🔷 Typical structure

• A rounded vertical pillar , usually made of stone (often black or gray).

• It rests on a circular base (the Yoni ), representing the goddess Shakti , the divine feminine power.

• Together, the Lingam and the Yoni symbolize creation, fertility, and cosmic balance .

🔷 Symbolism

• Creation and regeneration : The lingam is a symbol of the origin of all life .

• Infinity : Its abstract form evokes the idea that God is formless , without beginning or end.

• Divine energy : The lingam embodies the energy of transformation , that which destroys in order to recreate.

🔷 In temples and rituals

• Present in almost all temples dedicated to Shiva .

• Worshipped through rituals including:

  • ablution (Abhishekam) with water, milk, honey or ghee,

  • the offering of flowers, bilva leaves,

  • chants and mantras (like Om Namah Shivaya ).

🔷 Special shapes

• There are different types of lingams:

  • Swayambhu : natural lingam, appeared without human intervention (considered very sacred).

  • Jyotirlingams : twelve lingams of light, among the most sacred in India.

  • Lingams made of quartz crystals or sacred metal used in specific rituals.

🔷 Symbolic and philosophical interpretations

• In Shaivism , the lingam is the deepest representation of Shiva as the Absolute .

• It is also seen as a metaphor for the cosmos , with the pillar symbolizing the axis of the world.

• Some tantric and philosophical texts see it as a union of complementary principles , and not a simple sexual representation.