Virashasivas

Virashivas, also known as Virashaivas or Lingayats, are a Shaivite religious tradition originating in Karnataka, India. The term "Virashaiva" translates to "heroic Shaiva" or "ardent devotee of Shiva." The tradition is characterized by its devotion to Shiva as the supreme God and its emphasis on the wearing of a personal lingam, an abstract or aniconic representation of Shiva, throughout life. This lingam is typically worn on a string around the neck.

The Virashaiva tradition emerged in the 12th century with the teachings of Basavanna and his contemporaries, who challenged the prevailing caste system and certain ritualistic practices of Hinduism. They advocated for a more egalitarian society and emphasized the importance of personal experience and devotion over hereditary status. The movement promoted the concept of "Work is Worship," encouraging honest labor and a life of integrity.

Key tenets of Virashaivism include the belief in a single supreme God (Shiva), the importance of the guru (spiritual teacher), and the concept of the lingam as a symbol of divine presence. Unlike some other Hindu traditions, Virashaivism generally does not recognize the authority of the Vedas in the same way, placing greater emphasis on their own Agama texts and the teachings of their saints. The tradition has a rich literary heritage, including devotional poetry known as Vachanas, composed by its early proponents.