We will explain the symbolism of Nandi and Lord Shiva.
Why did the Rishies insist on Nandi before the Deity. Nandi represents our animal aspect. Our animal aspect has to be overcome to attain Self Actualisation, or the vision of the mighty Lord ( Lord Shiva ).
After attaining Cosmic Consciousness, Sat Prem writes about Aurobindo. ” He felt the animal grimace under the Infinite Consciousness and the material gross still intact after that beautiful aureole”. He had overcome the animal in Him !
You will find this great Symbolism in all Lord Shiva temples.