The
lingam (, also
linga,
ling,
Shiva linga,
Shiv ling, meaning
sign,
symbol or
phallus) is an abstract or aniconic representation of the
Hindu deity,
Shiva, used for worship in
temples, smaller shrines, or as
self-manifested natural objects. In traditional
Indian society, the linga is rather seen as a symbol of the energy and potential of God, Shiva himself.