Shiva to Shankara: Decoding the Phallic Symbol

Shiva To Shankara: Decoding The Phallic Symbol, written by Devdutt Pattanaik, is an attempt by the author to reconcile with the differences of opinion regarding the meanings and the varied symbolisms behind the Shiva linga and other practices associated with the Hindu deity, Lord Shiva. The book dives into the rituals, metaphysics, stories, and symbols associated with Shiva, and deciphers the meanings and references behind the various aspects of Lord Shiva. It differentiates between Shankara, the householder, and Shiva, the hermit. Shiva is often associated with alchemy and asceticism, and there are sexual references, especially in the phallic Linga, that are interpreted in different forms by different schools of Hinduism. The sexual connotations of the Shiva lingam, which is ensconced within the female reproductive organ that is represented by the Yoni, is dealt with in this book. The author, Devdutt Pattanaik, is a respected mythologist and an expert in Hindu mythology. He was born in the year 1970, on December 11, and graduated from a medical school before he took up Comparative Mythology. Pattanaik is well-known for integrating the wisdom from Indian mythology into management practices. He has many books to his credit, including Shiva: An Introduction, 7 Secrets of Shiva, Fun in Devlok: Shiva Plays Dumb Charades, and The Book Of Ram.