SHIVA (HIS SYMBOLS)
Many symbols have come to be associated with Lord Shiva and although their origins are obscured by time, their meanings are as true and vibrant as ever.
In Hindu mythology, as in many cultures, snakes are considered a sign of mystical and sexual power. The garlands of serpents, naga, worn around Lord ShivaтАЩs neck represent the nhallus or linga. So strong is the belief in its power that barren women worship ShivaтАЩs erect penis and those who dream of serpents, believe they will conceive. Devotees also rub red vermilion powder onto the erect penis of Shiva LakuUsha, the giver of wishes, to overcome infertility. Throughout the entire subcontinent, all varieties of phallic shapes symbolize Shiva.