Lingam is a union of male and female elements......

One of the most popular depiction of Lord Shiva is being half male and half female. The Lingam is a union of male and female elements as well. 

A Shaivite gives full respect on the equality of gender since the very start. Lord Shiva always has Goddess Parvati on his side blessing together with him. In many pictures that are well depicted, she is neither higher nor lower than him. They both hold equal positions. They both are heads to their corresponding responsibilities, and are given equal respect.

This equality and respect stems from the fact that both gender have the same opportunity to attain perfection, and when one looks at the universe, it is neither male nor female, while also being both male and female.

Lord Shiva is the potential, while Goddess Parvati brings that potential and turns it to action. If Goddess Parvati is the storm, Lord Shiva is the irrigation channel for all the rain. They both need each other to bear a result, and they both carry equal burden for their own corresponding responsibilities.

One who does not value the dignity and value of a woman or a man is incomplete, for the very propagation and evolution of all living beings on earth has always depended on the partnership of both.

Om Namah Shivaya

source : FB