Elements of Hindu Iconography v2.c15.66

v2.c15.66

destroy the caste system. Basava taught the adoration of the *linga* as the chief feature of his system; his followers were taught the importance of veneration to the *guru*; the *linga* and the *Sangha*. They were also taught that, as soon as a Śaiva dies, he becomes one with Mahēśvara; child-marriage was discountenanced and post-puberty marriage was the general rule among them; widow re-marriage was also permitted. The Liṅgāyatas or the followers of Basava carry about their person a small *linga* either encased in a silver casket and hung about the neck or tied up in a silk cloth which is bound round the right arm or on the neck. Under no circumstances should this *linga* leave the person of the wearer; it is like the *yajñōpavīta* of the Brāhmaṇa never to be removed during the life-time of the wearer. The Liṅgāyatas are supposed to have no caste distinction, but there are among them Brāhmaṇas who are known by the name of Ārādhyas; nor is an Ayyanōru (their priestly class) known to interdine with low caste Jaṅgamas (or congregation). They have a number of curious customs among them which it is not possible to deal with here.