The 10 Powerful Symbols of Lord Shiva and Their Hidden Meanings

Mahadev's appearance is totally different from all other gods, and every symbol he carries has a deep meaning. From his matted hair, the moon on his forehead, and his third eye, to the Trishul and Damaru and more.

Shiva's appearance is distinct from all other gods

Mahadev 10 Symbols: Everything Mahadev wears has a very deep meaning. His appearance is completely different and unique compared to all other gods. The snake around his neck, the Ganga in his matted hair, and the moon on his forehead hold profound mysteries. But do you know the real meaning of the 10 symbols Mahadev wears?

Symbol of life and death

From the Damaru, which represents the deepest mysteries of the universe and the cycle of life and death, to the Bhasma (ash), what do Mahadev's 10 main symbols actually mean? Let's explore this in detail.

Mahadev's 10 main symbols

1. Jata (Matted Hair): Shiva's matted hair is his most distinct feature and it symbolises the entire universe. 2. Moon: The moon on Shiva's forehead is a symbol of the mind. It represents the cycle of time, control over the mind, and calmness.

Symbol of balance

3. Trinetra (Third Eye): Shiva's three eyes are a symbol of divine vision, omniscience, and a balance that is beyond the material world. People believe Mahadev's third eye also represents the three gunas—Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. The third eye also stands for the three phases of time—past, present, and future. It even signifies the three realms—heaven, death, and hell.

Symbol of control and balance

4. Sarpahar (Snake Garland): A fierce creature like a snake rests around Mahadev's neck. Despite being destructive and having 'tamas' qualities, it remains under Shiva's control, completely devoted to him. The presence of Vasuki, the king of snakes, around Mahadev's neck is a symbol of control and balance.

Symbol of cosmic rhythm and consciousness

5. Trishul (Trident): Shiva also holds a weapon in his hand; the Trishul is a deadly weapon that has the power to destroy the three types of sorrows—physical, divine, and spiritual. 6. Damaru: Shiva holds a Damaru in one hand, which he plays during his Tandava dance. The sound of the Damaru is considered a form of 'Brahma'. This Damaru symbolises the creation of the universe, its rhythm, and consciousness.

Symbol of immortality

7. Mundmala (Garland of Skulls): The garland of skulls around Shiva's neck symbolises Sati's unwavering love and immortality. This skull garland shows that Shiva has control over death. 8. Chhal (Skin): Shiva wears a tiger skin on his body. A tiger is a fierce animal that also symbolises ego. This means Shiva has suppressed and conquered violence and ego. Every person should control the violent feelings within them.

Bhasma on the Shivling

9. Bhasma (Ash): Mahadev applies ash to his body. The ritual of applying ash on the Shivling also follows this practice. The ash reveals a deep secret of life. This ash signifies that the world is mortal. 10. Vrish (Bull): Shiva's vehicle is the Vrish, or the bull. The bull is considered a symbol of Dharma (righteousness), on which Mahadev rides. The four legs of the Vrish symbolise Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha, which one can attain with Mahadev's grace.