HINDU SYMBOLISM

At Chinmaya Mission Bala Viharwe are learning about many different forms of God and their symbolism. I am going to write about Lord Shiva this time. Lord Shiva is one of the three main Gods of Hinduism (know as theTrimurtis), along with Brahmaji and Lord Vishnu. Lord Shiva is the destroyer of all evil. It is believed that Lord Shivadestroys all creation and makes way for their transformation for recreation.

Please visit the following link to review previous articles on Sri Ganesha (Jan. 2012) and Lord Vishnu (Feb. 2012): Over the next few months, we will continue with the series. So, please be sure to check back to learn about each of the Divine Mothers.

LORD SHIVA

River Ganga / River Ganga is the holiest river in India. Ganga flowing out of Lord Shiva’s head is symbolizing the flow of divine knowledge.
Crescent Moon / The crescent moon is an indication of the cyclical nature of the universe. The waxing and waning of moon symbolizes the cycle through which creation evolves. Since Lord Shiva is Eternal Reality, He is beyond time and the cycle of creation.
Blue Neck / Lord Shiva’s neck is blue in color because He swallowed poison during the churning of the ocean for the divine nectar. This shows that the Great and Wise should be able to swallow all the poisons (troubles and sorrows) in life.
Snake / Lord Shiva is often depicted with a snake coiled around His neck. We need the mind that spits the poison of negative thoughts fully under our control, just as Lord Shiva has the snake around His neck under control. The Lord is fearless and fully in control of things around Him.
Holy Ash / Lord Shiva is covered with Holy Ashwhich represents the destruction of evil, and remembrance of the divine.
Three Eyes / Lord Shiva’s third eye is situated on His forehead, and it represents the eye of wisdom. The other two eyes represent love and justice.
Trident / The trident Lord Shiva carries in His hand is an emblem of sovereignty.
Matted Hair / Lord Shiva’s long matted hair represents His spiritual powers and His greatness. It shows the integration of physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual aspects of one’s life.

Induja Kumar is a student in the 4th grade Bala Vihar class of Chinmaya Mission, Phoenix Chapter (). Chinmaya Mission Bala Vihar classes are conducted every Sunday at Sierra Vista Academy in Scottsdale. She wrote this article as part of her Bala Vihar curriculum.