Lingayatism is a religious and cultural movement that originated in the 12th century in Karnataka, India. It is a form of Shaivism, which is a sect of Hinduism that worships Lord Shiva as the supreme deity. However, what sets Lingayatism apart from other forms of Shaivism is its emphasis on social reform and equality.

In Lingayatism, the holy book or scripture is not a single text, but a collection of writings known as the Vachanas. These are devotional poems composed by various saints and philosophers, known as the Sharanas, who were instrumental in the development and spread of Lingayatism. The Vachanas are considered to be the divine words of Lord Shiva himself, and are revered as the primary source of spiritual guidance for Lingayats.

The most famous and influential Vachana writer is Basava, who is considered to be the founder of Lingayatism. He composed over 30,000 Vachanas, which are compiled in the scripture known as the Basava Purana. Other important Vachana writers include Allama Prabhu, Akka Mahadevi, and Channabasavanna.

The Vachanas cover a wide range of topics, including devotion, social reform, equality, and spiritual liberation. They are written in simple and accessible language, making them relatable to people from all walks of life. The Vachanas also reject the traditional caste system and promote the idea of social equality, which is a core belief in Lingayatism.

Apart from the Vachanas, Lingayats also consider the Shiva Purana and the Bhagavad Gita as important scriptures. However, these texts are not given the same level of importance as the Vachanas, as they are seen as secondary sources of spiritual knowledge.

It is important to note that Lingayatism does not have a strict set of rules or rituals, and there is no requirement for the followers to read or study the Vachanas. Instead, the emphasis is on personal devotion to Lord Shiva and following the teachings of the Sharanas.

In conclusion, while Lingayatism does not have a single holy book or scripture, the Vachanas hold a special place in the hearts of its followers. They serve as a source of spiritual guidance and inspiration, promoting social reform and equality, and reinforcing the devotion to Lord Shiva.