Shivalinga
/ˌʃɪvəˈlɪŋɡə/noun
A symbolic representation of the Hindu deity Shiva, commonly an aniconic stone form worshipped in Shaivism.
Did you know?The Sanskrit word liṅga means “sign” or “mark,” but it can also mean a phallus, so the Shivalinga has long carried both symbolic and generative interpretations.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Sanskrit
Sanskrit
śiva
“Auspicious, propitious; later the personal name of the Hindu god Shiva.”
Ancient Sanskrit
Sanskrit
liṅga
“A sign, mark, characteristic, or distinguishing symbol; also a phallus.”
Classical Sanskrit
Sanskrit
śivaliṅga
“The sign or emblem of Shiva, referring to the aniconic object used in Shaivite worship.”
Medieval Indian languages
Indic
śivaliṅga / śivliṅg
“A consecrated representation of Shiva, often paired ritually with the yoni, symbolizing generative and cosmic power.”
19th Century
English
Shivalinga
“An English scholarly and religious term for the Shiva liṅga.”
Modern English
English
Shivalinga
“A sacred emblem of Shiva, commonly represented as a rounded upright stone or pillar.”
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