Elements of Hindu Iconography v2.c16.73

v2.c16.73

This naturally leads us to the inference that the image of Śiva might also belong to the first century at least of the Christian era, if not to a still earlier period. Again, from the exact likeness of the Guḍimallam Liṅga to the human phallus, it is certain that Liṅga worship was not of a mere symbol (liṅga), nor of a simple pillar (sthāṇu), but is beyond doubt phallic in its nature.* That this is the real origin of Liṅga worship even at the present day is easily seen from the rules laid down in the Āgamas for making a Liṅga, as also from the innumerable sculptures of Liṅga, found throughout the length and breadth of India. (For an exhaustive treatment of Liṅga, see the Chapter on Liṅgas).