Pasupata-Saivism in Early Historic Southeast Asia: Some Observations from Mukhalinga

Authors

  • Atiphat Paibool Ph.D. Candidate, Department of History, Faculty of Sociology, Deli University

Keywords:

Pasupata, Mukhalinga, Mainland Southeast Asia

Abstract

The Pasupata school of Saivism had a profound influence during the early historical period of Mainland Southeast Asia, as suggested by epigraphical evidence. However, a conventionally iconographical element of this tradition, the image of Lakulisa, remains regionally limited. In India, a particular archetype of Siva Linga called “Image-Linga” has been discovered; this image is believed to be closely linked to the Pasupata tradition and may have contributed to the stylistic development of Southeast Asian Mukhalinga. This article, therefore, firstly examines the Pasupata belief regarding Image-Linga in India. The second part investigates inscriptional and archaeological evidence related to the Pasupata sect in Mainland Southeast Asia. The discussion concludes with observations on the sects’ influences on the conceptualization of Mukhalinga, which it may hint that the Mukhalinga served as a material representation of the ideology of Siva’s union and Southeast Asian rulers relied on the Pasupata ascetics’ knowledge to enhance their authority through the likeness of the divine. 

 

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บรรณานุกรม

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Published

2026-06-24