Lingodbhava Shiva

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The Story of Lingodbhava Shiva

Shiva is more often than not worshipped in the form of a linga (the word linga implies a sign – चिह्न, or a mark in the Svetasvatara Upanishad). One of the most common pauranic stories (stories from texts called ‘purana’ or पुराण) about the origin of the linga is narrated thus. The universe as we know it, had not been created. There were dark waters all around. Vishnu and Brahma were fighting with each other over who was superior. While they were quarrelling… a pillar of light appeared in front of them. This resplendent column of light was expanding to fill the universe. To settle their fight for supremacy, Brahma and Vishnu decided to find the ends of this seemingly infinite pillar. They decided that the first to locate either end, would be declared superior. Brahma took the form of a gander and flew above to look for the upper end while Vishnu assumed the form of a boar and dived deep down to search for the bottom. Needless to say, neither succeeded since this pillar of flaming light was no other than Shiva. The aniconic, limitless Shiva manifest himself in the form of a linga and this became the most enduring icon of Maheshwara.

Symbolism of the Lingodbhava Story

This story is an allegory of sorts. The formless Shiva may not be within the reach of ordinary mortals but if the search of the devotee is true and pure, there will be light and Shiva will manifest in front of her. This ever expanding, infinite column of light signifies movement… there is no stillness… there is movement from not knowing – darkness (agyaana – अज्ञान ) to knowing – light (gyaana – ज्ञान ). The infinite column is also reminiscent of the infinite light and knowledge that pervades this cosmos.

ॐ नमः शिवाय |