Eight Features of Veerashaivism

Eight Features of Veerashaivism, a Kannada Shaivite sect are as follows:

1. Guru – the spiritual guide
2. Linga / Shivling – a symbol of reality – symbolically represents  Lord Shiva
3. Jangama – wandering mendicant who preaches morality and spreads the teachings of Veerashaivism
4. Padodaka – water rendered holy by washing the feet of the Guru
5. Prasada – Holy offering
6. Vibhuti – Holy Ash
7. Rudraksha – sacred seed from Rudraksha tree believed to be the tears of Shiva.
8. Mantra – Holy words

Veerashaivites have complete faith in the holiness of their Guru and the Jangamas.

The Guru is expected to live a chaste and pure life. He does not compromise on morality.

There is no distinction between a Guru, Shivling and Jangama.

All objects touched by the Guru are holy and the sect revere them as prasada.