The Enigmatic Power of Shiva’s Symbolism
The image of the All-Benevolent Lord Shiva appears so attractive to certain individuals and groups because it embodies powerful, almost incomprehensible forces that unite the contradictory aspects of creation and destruction, as well as a mysterious inaccessibility that lends his image an aura of mystical power. It is precisely this duality and ambiguity that transforms the figure of Shiva into an ideal symbol, one that can be adapted to justify personal views, reinforce authority, or support ritual practices.
Thus, some texts note that the incomprehensibility and ineffability of the name Rudra-Shiva played a decisive role in him becoming the ruler of the universe. This quality allowed his devotees to use his image to form a unique spiritual identity and assert their strength. For example:
"All the ineffability of the name Rudra-Shiva, his impenetrability – all of this also helped him secure the position of ruler of the universe. ... The image of Shiva – the great ascetic-monk – had an even more potent impact on philosophical thought." (source: link txt)
Another excerpt emphasizes that, although Shiva is depicted in human-like form, his image far exceeds purely human dimensions and incorporates elemental, even demonic, elements, thereby imbuing it with especially potent symbolism and allowing the image to be employed for a wide range of purposes:
"Although Shiva is portrayed in human-like form, his image goes far beyond mere human limits. ... Yet in Shaivist depictions, the elemental and even demonic elements are overwhelmingly potent." (source: link txt)
Thus, the use of Shiva’s image is explained by its capacity to be imbued with multiple meanings: from a symbol of asceticism and spiritual strength to an embodiment of the unfathomable cosmic laws. His ambiguous yet powerful image provides those seeking to bolster their legitimacy or emphasize their connection to universal principles with a potent tool for achieving their personal and ideological goals.
Supporting citation(s):
"All the ineffability of the name Rudra-Shiva, his impenetrability – all of this also helped him secure the position of ruler of the universe. ... The image of Shiva – the great ascetic-monk – had an even more potent impact on philosophical thought." (source: link txt)
"Although Shiva is portrayed in human-like form, his image goes far beyond mere human limits. ... Yet in Shaivist depictions, the elemental and even demonic elements are overwhelmingly potent." (source: link txt)