Lingayatism

Lingayatism /ˈlɪŋɡɑːjʌθ/, is a distinct Shaivite denomination practiced in India. It makes several departures from mainstream Hinduism and propounds monotheism through worship centered on Lord Shiva (formless, infinite god) in the form of Ishtalinga. Like Buddhism, Jainism, Śramaṇa, Cārvāka and Sikhism, it rejects the authority of the Vedas and the caste system. However, Lingayatism does share some beliefs with Hinduism, such as reincarnation and karma. Lingayatism was founded by the 12th-century philosopher and statesman Basava and spread by his followers, called Sharanas.

The adherents of this faith are known as Lingayats. Both the terms Lingayatism and Lingayats are derived from Kannada word lingavanta for the "one who wears a iṣṭaliṅga (Kannada: ಇಷ್ಟಲಿಂಗ)". The Lingayat iṣṭaliṅga is an oval-shaped emblem symbolising Parashiva, the absolute reality, and is worn on the body by a cord hung around the neck. The terms Lingayatism and Veerashaivism, which is a Vedic Shaivite cult founded by the Panchacharyas which also includes wearing Ishtalinga as a significant ritual of observance, have been used synonymosly, both by public and recognized by Governments, though its validity is the source of the biggest contemporary theological and historical debate related to Lingayatism. Nevertheless, Lingayats are also invariably identified and referred as Veerashaivas.