The Trimurti Flashcards
What is the definition of Brahman?
The supreme being out of which everything is made
What does Trimurti means?
The 3 most important features of brahman: creator, sustainer and destroyer
What is Brahmas job?
Creator
What do Hindus believe Brahma did?
Created the universe
Name the three key characteristics of Brahma and what they represent
4 heads and 4 arms - heads represent 4 Vedas, the religious writings of hinduism
White beard - shows brahma is the oldest being in the universe
Travels on swan/goose - which symbolises knowledge, brahma is the giver of all knowledge
What is Vishnu’s job?
Sustainer
What do Hindu’s believe Vishnu does?
Supports and maintains everything that exists, protects the universe from harm
Why is vishnu blue?
Blue like the sky and sea, blue represents the infinite
What do the four arms of Vishnu hold and what do they represent?
Sharp spinning discus weapon - for the mind
Lotus flower - for truth
Mace - for existence
Conch - for creativity
What is Shiva’s main job?
Destroyer
What are the main features of Shiva?
3 eyes, middle eye sees truth
What flows from shivas hair?
The Ganga - Holiest river in India
What comes from Shivas drum and what does it mean?
The sound ‘Aum’ - once or vibrations of the universe. Symbol of all gods of hinduism and is the special work used to start prayers
What does Shiva’s trident mean?
The Trimurti - the 3 gods
What are the three Gods that make up the Trimurti?
Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva
