Creation flourishes when the law of dharma prevails and there is equilibrium between the positive and negative. When dark forces prevail, Shiva steps in and destroys everything, thus allowing for a new cycle of regeneration. Shiva is spectacularly represented in this aspect as Nataraja, the Cosmic Dancer, framed by a circle of fire. One raised arm holds the fire that destroys the universe. The other holds a damaru - a small, hourglass shaped drum from which issues Nada, the primordial sound from which creation originates. Shiva's third hand points down to his raised foot signifying spiritual liberation. Beneath the other foot lies a squirming demon, popular symbol of ignorance.