Liṅga Purāṇa

The Liṅga Purāṇa is one of the eighteen major Purāṇas, devoted to the worship of the liṅgam (phallic emblem of Shiva) and the theology of Shaivism.

Overview

The text contains approximately 11,000 verses and presents the liṅgam as the universal symbol of Shiva’s creative power and the manifestation of the formless Brahman in form. It is a primary source for understanding the theological basis of liṅga worship.

Content and Structure

The Liṅga Purāṇa is divided into two parts: the Pūrva-bhāga describing cosmology, the origin of the liṅgam, and the glory of Shiva, and the Uttara-bhāga containing hymns, ritual instructions, and descriptions of pilgrimage centers. The text narrates the myth of the infinite liṅgam (jyotir-liṅga) that appeared before Brahmā and Vishnu, symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva.

Significance

The text is significant for providing theological justification for the worship of the liṅgam, which is the most common form of Shiva worship. It influenced Shaiva theology and temple architecture throughout India and remains a key text for the Śaiva Siddhānta tradition.

Verification Notes

• Classified as a Mahāpurāṇa; closely related to the Śiva Purāṇa.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).