Generally, idols in different forms, postures, etc., occupy the sanctum sanctorum in temples. Siva temples are an exception in that the main deity is in the form of a lingam, an inverted U shape. However, there are classifications, which distinguish the form, which is worshipped as Siva.
What does a Siva lingam represent?
Siva Linga is perceived to be the unified form, Aikya bhavam, of Siva and Sakti. It depicts the unison of supreme male and female energies, which have created this universe. . Agni puranam states that all animate and inanimate things emerged out of Lingam.
Are there different varieties?
Sastra specifies many types of lingam for worship, which is classified as natural and man-made (manusha linga).
Natural lingams are created with natural materials. For example, Kshanika Lingam, which is made of 12 kinds of impermanent substance such as mud, raw-rice, cooked rice, river sand, cowdung, butter, sandal paste, rudraksham, flowers, darbai, Jaggery and flour. And there are lingams that are self-made.
Do the components in each lingam differ?
Baana lingam, believed to have been worshipped by Baanasuran, is a natural one obtained from sacred river beds. It has the shape of an egg or cylinder. Ratnaja Lingam is made out of precious and semi-precious stones such as pearl, ruby, quartz, emerald, spatikam, etc.
Do we have lingams created in materials other than precious stones?
Yes, quite a few. Lohaja Lingam is made of metals like gold, silver, copper, brass, etc. Daruja Lingam is made of specific types of wood, including sandal, devadaru, Asokam, etc.
Is the Siva lingam always in the inverted ‘U’ shape?
Not exactly. Deiviga Lingam is like a flame with uneven surface, said to be worshipped by the Devas. Gaanaba Lingam resembles a white pumpkin or cucumber worshipped by Ganaas. Arusha Lingam looks like a coconut, which was worshipped by Rishis. Divyam and Swayambu Lingam are similar in shape like a creeper, Rudraksham.
