Shiva is the master of dance. His dance is called the cosmic dance. His tandav posture represents energy -- the energy that is associated with the creation of the world, its destruction, the changes and evolution. Shiva carries an hourglass shaped musical instrument called uduakkai in his right hand. The uduakkai or drum represents sound which is the source of communication. In Hindu mythology, sound is also associated with the atmosphere. Atmosphere is one of the five important elements of the universe, fire, water, air, and earth being the other four. Therefore, the drum symbolizes outer space and sound – the universal elements. In the opposite hand, Shiva carries the fire. Fire is an instrument of destruction. That is, through the symbols of drum and fire, Shiva is pointing to the creation and the destruction that follow each other in the universe. His third hand is held in the posture of blessing, to indicate protection and peace while his fourth hand points to his lifted foot. The lifted foot is a symbol of salvation - if you have faith and if you follow your faith with sincerity and dedication, you will be saved from misery. Shiva is also surrounded by flames. The flame is a bright object that gives out light and therefore, represents wisdom and truth. Only a person of wisdom and truth can destroy evil things and preserve good things. Shiva is wearing a man’s earring on one ear and a woman’s earring on the other ear. The different earrings point to the equality and importance of both men and women in the conduct of the world.
Posted on: Tue, 16 Jul 2013 09:22:26 +0000
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