Which of the following is not true about the Lingayats?

The correct option is: On death, the devotee will be united with Vishnu.

Explanation:

To understand why this statement is not true about the Lingayats, we must examine their beliefs and practices:
1. Worship of Shiva: The Lingayats (or Virashaivas) are a Shaivite sect, meaning they worship Shiva. They worship Shiva in his manifestation as a 'linga'. Therefore, the option stating they worship Shiva in this form is true.
2. Wearing of the Linga: Lingayats traditionally wear a small linga in a silver case on a loop strung over the left shoulder, which symbolizes their constant connection to the divine. Thus, this statement is also true.
3. Burial Practices: Unlike traditional Hindu practices of cremation, Lingayats ceremonially bury their dead, which makes the statement about burying their dead true.
4. Belief about Death: Lingayats believe that on death, the devotee will be united with Shiva (specifically, they merge with the linga and will not return to this world), not Vishnu. Therefore, the statement claiming they will be united with Vishnu is incorrect, making it the right choice for this question.