Before concluding, let us first summarize what we have discovered so far. Based on all the facts mentioned in previous chapters, the Shiva lingam is most probably one of the following:
1. Cosmic pillar.
2. Phallus.
3. Sexual union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
4. Purusha and Prakriti.
5. Hiranyagarbha.
6. Symbol of science.
7. Mount Kailash.
8. Pillar.
9. Lord Shiva Himself.
10. Rudraksha.
11. Hump of a bull/buffalo.
The last two things, viz. Rudraksha and the hump, are limited to two temples only. The assumption Lord Shiva Himself is based on a folktale popular in only a small part of India. Also these arguments do not explain the shape of Banalinga. Therefore, I do not think that these meanings are used in a general sense to all Shiva lingams. This does not mean they are wrong. Rudraksha and Nandi are symbols of Lord Shiva. Hence, it is appropriate that they are worshiped in the temples in the form of a Shiva lingam.