Lord Shiva takes on the form of Dakshinamurti, in this Tanjore-style painting. He is the guru (murti), who faces the south (dakshina). Dakshina also refers to gifting, for he shares all knowledge about the arts and sciences, music, and yoga, with his devotees. He directs the ignorant towards spiritual truths. Shiva’s attire is simple animal skin, meaning that he is not interested in material pleasures. However, the jewellery adorning his body proclaims his divine status.
Shiva is seated in the virasana/hero pose, a yogic posture. The left foot is resting on the knee of the right leg, and his body is erect. The right foot rests on a demon in a relaxed position. The demon is a representation of ignorance, which must be shed. There are trees with hanging roots on either side of him, in the background. They denote the upward rise from ignorance to enlightenment. The four-armed God has one of his right hands raised in blessing. It also denotes a gesture indicating silence. Knowledge is better on absorbed through silence. The other hand clings to an hourglass-shaped drum, the damaru. The left hands cling to a flame and a scroll. His face displays a benign expression.
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