Shiva dances Ananda Tandava—the Dance of Bliss—symbolizing the cosmic cycles of creation and dissolution, as well as the daily rhythm and harmony of life, of birth and death. The purpose of this dance, it is believed, is to release humankind from ignorance and the snare of illusion of the "self."

Four arms representing cardinal directions (NSEW) Encircled flames—consciousness, manifest universe; endless cycle of birth and death--prahabhamandala Shiva's stoic face represents his neutrality, thus being in balance. Snake stands for egotism. Unkempt hair—rejection of society

Damaru—small hourglass-shaped drum representing sound originating creation—passage of time Lower right hand shows ABHAYA MUNDRA, representing fearlessness—protection from both evil and ignorance

upper left hand holds a flame (agni), which signifies destruction, the dissolution of form. On his head is a skull, symbolizing Shiva's conquest over death, and the goddess Ganga also sits on his hairdo. His third eye is symbolic of omniscience, insight and enlightenment.

Apasmarapurusha, a soul temporarily Earth-bound by sloth, confusion and forgetfulness. The cobra around Nataraja's waist is kundalini shakti, or the divine force thought to reside within everything. Shiva's right leg, representing obscuring grace, symbolizes his victory over ignorance. The uplifted left leg, by contrast, is revealing grace, which releases the mature soul from bondage.

Writing Prompt Explain the function of symbolism in Hinduism Art (sculpture/architecture) and how it demonstrates the core beliefs of the culture.

Instructions To receive full points, you need to provide or adhere to the following guidelines: You must write in paragraph form (at least 4 with an introduction, 2 supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion). Use complete and correct sentence structure and grammar. Provide direct details and examples to support your answer. Focus on the task provided.

Structure Introduction (1) Body Paragraphs (2) Conclusion (1) General statements of the topic, context, or beginning thoughts related to the task. Thesis statement: Defines your arguments and includes organizers for the two supporting paragraphs. Body Paragraphs (2) Transition topic sentence related to the thesis Details and direct evidence from the film that is relevant to your topic Explanation of those details, but not summary Conclusion (1) Restatement of your argument Concluding statements that emphasize the general importance of the argument you are trying to make.