Ramapada Acharjee

  Decoding Shiva Lingam A lingam in Sanskrit means a sign, symbol or mark. "Lingam" is additionally found in Sanskrit texts, such as Shvetashvatara Upanishad, and others texts with the meaning of "evidence, proof" of God and God's existence. For any sign we need to - 1. Understand the correct meaning of that and 2. We should avoid making too many convoluted meanings which may cover the simple straight message or the actual meaning of the symbol. Any attempt of performing rituals while being ignorant of this inherent message will do no good to the people. Pouring water or milk on Linga won't bear fruit unless we are aware of its significance. Shiva Linga is a Sign of both Nirakar (formless) Brahman that supports the entire Universe and the Sakar Swaguna Brahman. Atharva Veda refers to pillars, which can hold or fortify any structure. A pillar symbolizes the existence of the ultimate Truth or formless Brahman (nirakar Bhramha). In a sense a pil