Lingayatism

Basava Gaint Statue 108 feet, Basava Kalyana

Akkamahadevi Udathadi1

Necklace with Shiva's Family LACMA M.85.140

Kudala Sangama

Kailaasa

Lingayatism is a distinct Shaivite religious tradition in India, primarily in the state of Karnataka. It emerged in the 12th century as a movement led by Basava, a philosopher and statesman, who sought to eradicate social discrimination and promote spiritual democracy. Lingayatism emphasizes personal spiritual development and direct worship of Shiva through a symbol called the Linga, which followers wear around their necks. This practice symbolizes a devotion to Shiva and a commitment to the community's ethical and spiritual values.

Beliefs and Practices

Lingayatism challenges traditional Hindu orthodoxy, rejecting the authority of the Vedas, the caste system, and child marriages, promoting instead a society based on equality, community, and personal spiritual development. The followers, known as Lingayats or Veera Shaivas, adhere to the Panchachara, five codes of conduct, and the Ashtavarana, eight shields of protection, which guide their daily lives and spiritual practices.

Panchachara

The Panchachara includes:

• Worship of only one God, namely, Shiva
• Wearing the Ishtalinga at all times
• Avoidance of meat and consumption of certain substances
• Practice of personal cleanliness
• Observance of equality among all members of society

Ashtavarana

The Ashtavarana consists of:

• Guru - Reverence towards the guru
• Linga - Worship of the Ishtalinga
• Jangama - Respect towards a wandering monk
• Padodaka - Consuming the water used for worship
• Prasada - Acceptance of food offerings
• Vibhuti - Application of sacred ash
• Rudraksha - Wearing beads made from the Rudraksha tree
• Mantra - Recitation of sacred chants

Philosophy

Lingayatism is rooted in the writings and teachings of Basava and his contemporaries, such as Allama Prabhu and Akka Mahadevi, who contributed to the Vachana literature, a form of didactic poetry. This literature emphasizes a direct and personal relationship with Shiva, advocating for a spiritual path that transcends caste and ritual purity to achieve a state of oneness with the divine.

Social Impact

The Lingayat movement has had a significant impact on the social fabric of Karnataka and surrounding regions, challenging established norms and promoting social reform. It has contributed to the reduction of caste-based discrimination and has been a driving force in the region's educational and economic development.

Contemporary Issues

In recent years, the Lingayat community has been at the center of political and religious debates in India, particularly regarding its demand for recognition as a separate religion distinct from Hinduism. This has led to discussions about identity, minority rights, and the definition of religion in the Indian context.

See Also

• Shaivism
• Vachana Sahitya
• Karnataka
• Hindu Reform Movements