A lingam (Sanskrit: लिङ्ग IAST: , lit. sign, symbol or mark), sometimes referred to as linga or Shiva linga, is an abstract or aniconic representation of the Hindu deity Shiva in Shaivism. It is typically the primary murti or cult image in Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva, also found in smaller shrines, or as self-manifested natural objects. The lingam is often represented within a disc-shaped platform. Lingayats wear a lingam inside a necklace, called Ishtalinga.