Shiva is traditionally depicted as a male deity in Hinduism. In both Vaishnavism and Shaivism, which are two major sects within Hinduism, Shiva is personified as male. However, it is important to note that gender in Hinduism is not strictly tied to biological sex.
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In the Vaishnavism and Shaivism traditions, the male form of God, namely Vishnu and Shiva, is used as an icon to help focus worship, also known as Puja. This is not to say that the use of icons is restricted to male forms only. Hinduism recognizes the divine as formless and transcendent of gender, and thus, the divine can take on various forms and shapes.
Therefore, while Shiva is traditionally portrayed as a male deity in Hinduism, it is crucial to understand that this depiction serves as a means to facilitate worship and spiritual connection, rather than a strict assignment of gender. The ultimate nature of God in Hinduism goes beyond gender and human constructs.