‘Shiva is referred to as the ultimate man. He is the symbol of ultimate masculinity. The Ardhanari form illustrates how the female principle of God, Shakti, is inseparable from the male principle of God, Shiva. Masculine and feminine does not mean male and female. The “feminine” and “masculine” are certain qualities. Only when these two qualities happen in balance within, can a human being live a life of fulfilment. God is beyond the concept of any sex. So God can be male, female, and even neuter, too. So God existing in this intrinsic condition is referred to as Ardhanarishwar.’
