Ashtavarana

In Lingayat theosophy, the "Ashtavaranas" refer to the eight virtues that act as shields or coverings protecting the devotee from extraneous distractions and influences of "Maya". "Ashta" means 'eight' and "Avarana" means 'covering'. They also protect against attachment to worldly desires.

The "Ashtavaranas" are described as,

* "Guru "
* "Linga "
* "Jangama"
* "Vibhuti or Bhasma"
* "Rudrakshi"
* "Padodaka"
* "Prasada"
* "Mantra"