OmshantiMandiram Shiva

Shiva or Mahadeva (the Great God) is the god of detruction and also the god of creation. After countless centuries he completely destroys the universe, followed by an equally long period which the universe is nothing. A new creation takes place and the endless cycle goes on forever. Shiva is also know as the Supreme Yogi. Shiva's characteristic features include the vertical third eye, three horizontal strips upon his forehead. Shiva is seen sitting upon skin of tiger or panther, his matted hair wound in a top-knot high upon his head, a crescent moon the symbol of birth and growth, or the flow of yogic power that springs like a fountain from the top of his head.

Symbols of Shiva:
Shiva's symbols are a drum, mendicant's bowl, prayer-beads strung like a rosary, the trident (trishula) the symbol of his power. Cobra around his neck, his matted hair wound into a mop high upon his head, a crescent that he wears.