IS NANDI A BULL OR A MAN?

IS NANDI A BULL OR A MAN?

Diya V Sharma, Doctoral Researcher In Shaivism, Advait Vedanta

Before I answer your question, it is important for you to understand that “Sanatan Dharma” has deep philosophical symbolism. Each figure or symbol that you see materialistically has a deeper philosophical symbolism.

Nandi-The Bull…….Should be interpreted by you. However here is an explanation.

A Bull in “Sanatan Dharma” is a symbol of “HUMAN”. Just as a bull is in-tamable, headstrong, physically capable but mentally not enlightened…..just as he is dedicated, similarly all humans depict the same nature.

Please note the structure of a temple……..there are various birds, animals, trees, deviz, devtaz just like this world where we ares surrounded by various forms. NOW OBSERVE NANDI, he sits amongst all the attractions and watches only Shiva. This a has a deep meaning, it represents the fact that Nandi who is the symbol of humans should not be affected by the Maya of forms of this universe. A human should be dedicated just like a bull and should single be minded in his devotion towards the lord. A man must realize that being aware of the divine is the only way to liberation.

It is also important to know that in Shaivism and Shaiva Siddhanta Shiva is considered PASHUPATI. Shaivism dznt discriminate betweedn animals, humans, trees and insects…..hence, all humans, animals, insects, trees, organisms are referred to as PASHU. Shaivism dznt discriminate between atmaa on the basis of forms of animal, human, tree etc. PATI on the other hand is a Sanskrit word which means “CONTROLLER”……hence, Shiva is seen as the PATI/CONTROLLER of all Pashus. Thus, a pashu/nandi/human sits before his creator with divinity in his heart and with a concentrated mind to be free from the cycle of birth and death.

Diya Vandana Sharma

PhD Scholar-Advait Vedanta

Department Of Philosophy

Annamalai University