The Profound Symbolic Message of Shiva
For those who wish to go beyond the physical form, Shiva’s external appearance is a constant reminder of many fundamental truths. He is an embodiment of the three principal themes of Indian philosophy, which must be inculcated in our lives before any progress can be made on the spiritual path.
1). Bhakti (Devotion): The Ganges flowing from his hair represents the stream of bhakti.
2). Gyan (Knowledge): Shiva is constantly engaged in inward contemplation, totally oblivious to what’s happening outside, so much that he even appears intoxicated to those not initiated into his mystery.
3). Vairagya (Indifference and disenchantment with all worldly things): Shiva often frequents the cremation grounds and smears himself with ashes. What better example could there be of disenchantment with the living world? Vairagya means sacrificing everything, and the one who even while living, gives himself up to the funeral grounds, not needing nor expecting anything from the world, is perhaps the ideal example.
As for the bull Shiva rides upon, ancient texts heap praise on it, calling it the Bull of Dharma:
Nandi (The Mount of Lord Shiva) ‘The bull of dharma has forgiveness for its horns, control of the senses for its ears, the eyes of faith and the Vedas as its breath.
Nandi (The Mount of Lord Shiva) ‘The bull of dharma has forgiveness for its horns, control of the senses for its ears, the eyes of faith and the Vedas as its breath.
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