In the
ritual of performing Abhishekam or consecration of Shiva, water is supposed to
be offered on the Shivalingam and its three sides, as offerings to the Parivaar
of Mahadeva who accompanies him eternally. In this small
brass Shiva Lingam, the celestial family of Shiva is presented through
small images, surrounding Shiva. Ganesha, Parvati, and Karttikeya form a
semi-circle on the Vedi of the Lingam, which is adorned by the Naga (serpent)
of Shiva and placed on a circular platform, to give you a spiritually rich
experience of Shiva-Puja in your place of worship.
The Divine Union: A Family of Gods in Brass
This exquisite brass sculpture captures the essence of divine family harmony, a cornerstone of Hindu philosophy. At its heart stands the sacred Shivalinga, the aniconic representation of Lord Shiva, the Destroyer and Transformer. The Shivalinga embodies the formless, infinite, and cosmic energy that is the genesis of all creation. It symbolizes the union of the masculine and feminine principles, the ultimate oneness that underpins the universe. The smooth, unadorned form of the Shivalinga here invites meditation and contemplation, drawing the viewer into its profound spiritual significance.
––––––––––
Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha: The Embodiment of Love and Wisdom
Flanking the Shivalinga are the divine mother, Goddess Parvati, and their son, Lord Ganesha. Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Shiva, is the embodiment of power, love, fertility, and devotion. She represents the feminine creative force, the nurturing aspect of the divine that balances Shiva's transformative energy. Her serene presence in this sculpture signifies the stability and grace that a strong family unit brings. Beside her, Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, is revered as the remover of obstacles and the deity of beginnings and wisdom. His placement here, nestled within the divine family, underscores the blessings of auspiciousness and intelligence that permeate such a sacred union. The meticulous detailing on their forms, indicative of traditional craftsmanship, adds to the spiritual aura of the piece.
––––––––––
Symbolism and Auspiciousness
The Shivalinga itself is often depicted with the Naga, the serpent, coiled around its base. While not explicitly detailed in this particular sculpture, the implied presence of the Naga represents the dormant cosmic energy and the cyclical nature of time. The entire composition, rendered in gleaming brass, is not merely an artistic representation but a powerful conduit of divine energy. Brass, known for its purifying properties and durability, is a traditional material for religious artifacts, believed to attract positive vibrations and ward off negativity. This sculpture serves as a reminder of the importance of family bonds, divine protection, and the pursuit of wisdom and prosperity. It is an ideal piece for altars, meditation spaces, or as a thoughtful gift that bestows blessings upon the recipient. Each element within this brass ensemble resonates with ancient tales and profound spiritual truths, offering a tangible connection to the divine.
Exploring the Symbolism and Significance of Parvati in Hinduism
Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, is one of the
principal deities of Goddesses in Hinduism. She appeared in the
material world as the daughter of Himavan, king of the Himalayan
mountains. The Vedic scriptures describe her as a young,
beautiful woman who is chaste and faithful to her husband, Lord
Shiva. She is always engaged in the loving service of her
family; her two sons Ganesha and Kartikeya. Goddess Parvati is
the embodiment of devotion, love, power, and beauty. The
followers of the Shakta tradition (Shaktism) describe her as Adi
Shakti or the energy behind the creation of material nature. She
is very merciful toward all living entities like a mother who
cares for her children and manifests many forms to protect them
from miscreants. Her most venerated and important powerful forms
are Durga and Kali that she took to vanquish demons who created
havoc in the material world.
The Vedic scriptures talk of her beautiful form in detail. She
wears a red saree and is generally seated, having two or four
arms, beside Lord Shiva. Her younger son Ganesha sits on her
knee, while Kartikeya sits or stands near Lord Shiva. Goddess
Parvati is typically decorated with gold ornaments and a crown
on her head and also carries a lotus flower in one of her hands.
What does Parvati symbolize?
Goddess Parvati is gentle and loving toward everyone. She never
fails to help and guide those who approach her out of
helplessness. Just as a mother is always kind toward her
children, Goddess Parvati, being mother nature, is forgiving to
all living entities. But when the time comes, she assumes
different terrible forms such as Durga and Kali to defeat demons
in order to protect the material world. She took the form of
Durga and killed the demon Mahishasura. Kali, the most ferocious
form, slayed the demon Raktabija. Thus, Goddess Parvati not only
symbolizes love, fertility, motherhood, and harmony, but is also
the Goddess of power, energy, and destruction.
Can we keep Shiv Parvati statue at home?
It is stated in Srimad Bhagavatam, the most glorious Vedic
literature, that Lord Shiva is the topmost Vaishnava (devotee of
Lord Vishnu): vaiṣṇavānāṁ yathā śambhuḥ. In order to get the
mercy of the Supreme Lord Vishnu, it is important for us to
serve His pure devotees. Thus, worshiping Lord Shiva along with
his consort Goddess Parvati at home is the way to the heart of
Lord Vishnu. But you must also know the standards of worshiping
them so that no offense is committed at their lotus feet. If
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are pleased with your devotional
service, you will easily get the causeless mercy of Lord Vishnu
and thus the ultimate goal of your life will be achieved.