Dakshinamurthy
दक्षिणामूर्ति
The South-Facing Teacher
Cosmic & Philosophical
Description
Shiva as the supreme teacher of yoga, music, and wisdom (Jnana), imparting knowledge silently through parā vāk (supreme speech) or non-verbal transmission. He is the Adi Guru, the first teacher, who dispels ignorance by his very presence.
Meaning
The South-Facing Teacher
Representation
Shiva as the universal teacher imparting wisdom in silence
Significance
role:
Supreme teacher of yoga, music, vedanta, and spiritual truth
teaches:
Silence, inner realization, self-inquiry
disciples:
- Sanaka
- Sanandana
- Sanatana
- Sanatkumara (the four sages)
core message:
The ultimate knowledge is self-realization, received not through speech but through inner awakening
Symbolism
South-facing: Dispelling darkness (ignorance), direction of death and transformation
Banyan Tree: Immortality and eternal knowledge
Silent teaching (Mauna Upadesha): The highest form of transmission beyond words
Jnana Mudra: Union of individual and universal consciousness
Iconography
Direction Faced
South
Seated On
Sacred banyan tree (Vatavriksha)
Gesture
Jnana Mudra (gesture of wisdom)
Mount
None
Number Of Arms
4
Weapons And Items
Flame (Agni) (undefined: Illumination and dissolution of ignorance)
Scripture (Palm leaf or manuscript) (undefined: Sacred knowledge)
Rosary (Rudraksha mala) (undefined: Spiritual practice and focus)
Abhaya Mudra (undefined: Gesture of reassurance and fearlessness)
Demon Under Foot
Apasmara (demon of ignorance)
Appearance
Youthful sage with serene expression, teaching rishis through silence
Philosophical Context
schools: Advaita Vedanta,Shaiva Siddhanta
position: Highest teacher within the manifest world; bridge between Parashiva and the devotee
Worship & Rituals
Related Concepts
Guru
Jnana (Knowledge)
Silence
Advaita Vedanta
Yoga
Music
Parā Vāk (Supreme Speech)
Inner Guru
Associated Forms
Ishvara
Mahadeva
Sadashiva
Parashiva