Marble Shivling

The Shivling as a form of Shiva

The Shivling is the most widely worshipped form of Shiva. It is an aniconic form, meaning Shiva is represented without human features, and is traditionally understood as a symbol of the formless, infinite divine. Devotees offer abhishek, the ritual pouring of water, milk and other offerings, especially on Mondays, during the month of Shravan and on Maha Shivratri.

Lingam and jalahari base

• The lingam is the upright, rounded pillar at the centre.
• The base, called the yoni, jalahari or jaladhari, surrounds the lingam and is traditionally associated with Shakti. It has a channel and spout so that offerings poured during abhishek drain away.
• Some Shivlings are carved with a serpent (naag) coiled around the lingam or a small Ganga or Nandi detail.
• Marble Shivlings may be carved from a single block or with the lingam and base as separate pieces.

Abhishek, drainage and the direction of the outlet

Because abhishek involves pouring liquids, think about where the water will go. Some families place a bowl beneath the spout, while temples often have a drain built into the floor. In many traditions the outlet of the jalahari faces north, and devotees avoid stepping over the channel, but practices vary by region and sampradaya, so it is best to follow your family's custom or your priest's advice. Marble can absorb milk, honey and oils over time, so rinsing with clean water after abhishek helps to keep it clean.

Marble Shivling and Narmada Bana lingam

A marble Shivling is carved by hand from a block of marble. A Narmada Bana lingam is different: it is a naturally shaped stone collected from the Narmada river and is not carved, and many devotees regard it as especially sacred for that reason. Both are worshipped, and a Bana lingam is sometimes placed on a carved jalahari base. Some traditions also have guidance about the size of a Shivling kept at home, so it is worth asking your priest before choosing a large piece.