The Shiva linga or Shivlingam (Sanskrit for "symbol") is the symbol of the god Shiva and the form in which he is most commonly worshipped. These Shiva Ling is carved in Black Marble stone with hand painted.
The origin of the lingam has been described in the Hindu scripture of Shiva Purana in its first section of Vidyeshwar Samhita. Shiva-linga has been described as beginning-less and endless cosmic pillar (means Stambha) of the fire which is originally a cause of all causes. It never has any ending and beginning. It (Lingodbhava) symbolises the superiority over all gods such as Brahma (God of origin) and Vishnu (God of wellness). According to the Linga Purana, it is symbolises as the cosmic pillar means an infinite nature of Shiva. It is the representation of a tasteless, formless and smell less Universe Bearer. It is the oval shape structure resembling the whole Universe and its bottom resembling the base of Supreme Power which hold the entire Universe.
According to the Skanda Purana it is described as “The endless sky (that great void which contains the entire universe) is the Linga, the Earth is its base. At the end of time the entire universe and all the Gods finally merge in the Linga itself.” According to the yogic lore it is described as “first form to arise when creation occurs, and also the last form before the dissolution of creation”.
The meaning of Shiva Ling varies according to the uses, marks, signs and characteristic to gender. Some of the meanings are given as:
- It is a mark, token, sign, an emblem, a badge, symbol, distinguishing mark and characteristic.
- It is an unreal mark, an appearance, disguise, a deceptive symbol.
- It is a proof or evidence, sign of gender or sex and male organ of generation.
- It is a genital organ of the Lord Siva (means phallus) or an image of a god means an idol.
- It is a subtle frame or body and indestructible form of visible body.
- It is a creator and destructor of the universe.
Dimensions: 8 inches (L) x 4 inches (W) x 6 inches (H)
Weight: 2.2 kgs