Guest guest Posted February 23, 2005 Report Share Posted February 23, 2005 OM NAMAHA SHIVAYA Dear Vandana ji, Namaste! A tortoise in Shiva Temples has a symbolic significance to inspire the devotees in their spiritual practice. A tortoise has the ability to withdraw all its limbs and head completely within its shell. This symbolically inspires a spiritual aspirant to withdraw all his senses from the material world. Further when a tortoise lays eggs, it has a peculiar way of hatching them. She does not sit on top of them to hatch them but focuses her attention by constantly looking at them. The energy from her eyes hatches the eggs. This inspires a spiritual aspirant to focus all his attention one pointedly towards Lord Shiva. Also the importance of 'Darshan', focussing ones attention on the image or the Lingam of Shiva, is explained by the symbolic use of a tortoise in the temple. You might have also noticed a bull in all Shiva temples. It is 'Nandi', Shiva's vehicle. Nandi is a symbol of 'Dharma' or righteous living. It also symbolizes 'Will Power' and 'Strength' which help in one's spiritual practice. Hope this helps in your spiritual practice. With warm regards, Badal Suchak Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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