Shiva to Shankara by Devdutt Pattanaik

This book is an attempt by the author to understand and explain the significance of the Shiva Linga.

Summary of the Book

There is a difference in opinion regarding the symbolism and stories of the Shiva Linga. Different religious practices associated with Lord Shiva are analyzed. He is revered across the world and is known to be fierce. The destroyer of the universe is one of the Holy Trinity of the Hindus. He wears animal skin and is smeared with ash. His hair is matted and piled neatly on his head. Shiva lives in Mount Kailash and millions of devotees worship him in the form of the Linga. The author unravels the mystery and meaning behind the aspects of Lord Shiva. He has put across two forms of the Lord: Shankara (the householder) and Shiva (the hermit). He makes us aware of why the Goddess converts the hermit into the householder. There are also details of the different schools of thoughts in Hinduism about sexual meaning of the phallic symbol. The Linga is believed to be sitting on the Yoni, the female reproductive organ.

About Devdutt Pattanaik

Devdutt Pattanaik is the author of this book and is an expert in Hindu mythology. He is also a respected mythologist, a doctor of medicine and leadership consultant. His works are mostly based on the topics of mythology and management. Some books authored by him are Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata, Seven Secrets of Shiva and The Book of Ram.