Virashaivism

Veerashaivism, also known as Lingayatism, is a Shaivite religious tradition that originated in the 12th century in India, primarily in the Karnataka region. It was founded by the philosopher and social reformer Basavanna. Veerashaivism places a strong emphasis on the worship of Shiva in the form of an Ishtalinga, a small, portable lingam, which is worn by devotees at all times.

A core tenet of Veerashaivism is the concept of Kayaka and Vachana. Kayaka refers to the idea that all honest labor is sacred and should be performed with dedication. Vachana refers to the devotional and philosophical utterances or poems that form the sacred literature of the tradition, composed by Basavanna and his contemporaries. These Vachanas often critique caste discrimination and advocate for social equality.

Veerashaivism distinguishes itself from mainstream Hinduism through its rejection of the caste system, its emphasis on the immediate accessibility of divine grace through the Ishtalinga, and its unique theological framework. Unlike some other Hindu traditions, Veerashaivites do not generally cremate their dead, but rather bury them in a seated, meditative posture, believing that the body is a temple of Shiva. The tradition has a distinct monastic hierarchy and a rich tradition of philosophical and devotional literature.