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Week 12: Reading Notes - Pattanaik's Calendar Art Part D:

(Image Information: Shiva Linga
Salu1001 Source: Wikipedia)

~~~

This part of Pattanaik's video series talks about Shiva and Devi. It was very interesting to read about the symbolism held behind the Shiva Linga. Growing up in the Hindu religion, I just knew to pour milk over this statue on Mondays in order to honor Shiva. This video takes the subject even further in describing the upward and downward directions of the pillars as "unchanging truth of the spirit" and "changing the truth of the matter" respectively. There is a punctured base to symbolize the fact that life is constantly moving and that during this time we use it to discover the spirit and truth as mentioned above. This video enlightened me more about the importance of the Shiva Linga, and I wonder what my mom would say if I asked her the significance behind the Shiva Linga as well. Her answer would be one that would be passed down from generations as her mother taught her the meaning behind the Shiva Linga. Seeing two different explanations would definitely tie together the missing pieces in my understanding of this important idol. 
While Shiva is seen as the destroyer, this video also explains how Devi is the creator of life. These two opposites were made to marry each other. This would be such a great story to write about this week, as it could be used to play off the famous saying "opposites attract". This video also further provided an insight to the godly world in that both men and women are needed in order for the world to function. Another story to consider would be about Shiva, and how he thinks he only needs himself in order to survive, but he does not realize that he also needs a companion in order to make the world go round. 
The video for today has really opened up my eyes about the significance of Shiva and Devi, and even the cultural practices that I perform during my daily activities. I am looking forward to watching the next video, and see what story I decide to make of it  this week!

Bibliography: Pattanaik's Calendar Art Part D (Shiva, Devi) Reading Guide 

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