The head of Shiva , one of the main deities of Hinduism, is rich in symbolism and iconographic peculiarities that represent his powers, his cosmic role and his transcendent nature. Here are the main characteristics:
1. Braided Hair (Jata)
Shiva's hair is depicted braided and matted , often gathered in a high bun (jata-mukuta).
From these hairs flows the river Ganges (Ganga), which symbolizes purification and the divine flow of knowledge . Shiva, in fact, tamed the destructive power of the Ganges by making it flow gently from his head.
2. Third eye
Placed in the center of the forehead, it symbolizes inner vision , higher wisdom and the ability to see beyond the veil of illusion (Maya).
When opened, it can destroy ignorance and ego with spiritual fire .
3. Crescent (Chandra)
The crescent moon on the head represents the cycle of time , rebirth , and eternity.
It is also a symbol of the balance between lunar energy (calm, feminine) and solar energy (active, masculine).
4. Ash (Vibhuti)
Shiva is often depicted with streaks of ash on his forehead (and sometimes all over his body). This ash represents the transcendence of the material world and the awareness of impermanence .
5. Serpent (Naga)
A snake, usually around the neck or near the head, symbolizes control over the life energy ( Kundalini ) and victory over death .
The serpent also represents vigilance and the cyclical nature of time.
6. Eyes
Shiva's eyes are often described as half-open : they represent his being in a state of perpetual meditation , connected to both the inner and outer worlds.
