Worshippers of Shiva believe that the deity manifests himself in three stages, from the abstract to the concrete, symbolized by: the undecorated linga (“shaft”) the linga with one of more faces emerging from it and, finally, Mahesha (“The Great”), from whom Vishnu and Brahma are born.

Although the title may have negative connotations, the god brings about destruction to clear paths for positive change and purification. While the other two are known as the Preserver and the Creator, respectively, Shiva is known as the Destroyer. Shiva is one of the members of the Hindu Trimurti or “Trinity”, which also consists of the gods Vishnu and Brahma. 1: Shiva as Mahesha, India, Chola period,ġ0th century, granite with traces of gesso and Here, we will look at a few representations of Hindu gods in WAM’s collection and what to look out for to identify them.įig. Each god and goddess is depicted with attributes and, at times, vehicles ( vahanas) that are distinct to their iconography and identity. Their multiple heads symbolize great power and intelligence, the cardinal directions, and associations to other deities, while multiple arms denote supernatural strength and power, as well as the and ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously.ĭeities’ hands are typically shown creating gestures ( mudras) that signify various expressions and moods, or wielding weapons that signify the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and the vanquishing of demons. There are, of course, primary deities that are popularly venerated, and are widely represented in the South Asia’s visual culture, across time periods, geographies, and media.

Hindus can choose from a pantheon of 330 million gods and goddesses (which includes incarnations, or avatars) whom to worship. It is a rich, pluralistic, and complex faith it does not have an ecclesiastical order, governing body, prophet(s), and binding holy book rather, it is comprised of a wide range of traditions, ideas, belief systems. Hinduism is the dominant and native religion of South Asia.

Shiva multi arms