Shiva (Sanskrit for "auspicious one"), also called Siva, Hindu god who personifies both the destructive and the procreative forces of the universe.

As the destroyer, he is represented wearing a necklace of skulls and surrounded by demons. His reproductive aspect is symbolized by the lingam, a phallic emblem.

Shiva is also the god of asceticism and of art, especially dancing. He rides on the bull Nandi, and his consort is the mother goddess Uma, or Kali.

Some Hindus worship Shiva as the supreme deity and consider him a benevolent god of salvation as well as a god of destruction.

This bronze sculpture, entitled Shiva as Nataraja (Lord of the Dance) (about AD 1000), is one of a number of sculptures of the Hindu god Shiva made during India's Chola dynasty (10th century to 13th century). The sculpture shows Shiva dancing within a circle of fire. One of the god's hands holds a flame, while the other beats on a drum. His foot rests on the demon of ignorance. Bridgeman Art Library, London/New York

"Shiva," Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001 http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2000 Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved.