Vishnu

 Origin: Hinduism

Title: The Preserver, Sustainer of the Universe

Attributes:

• Appearance: Vishnu is often depicted with dark blue skin symbolizing the infinite space, four arms representing his omnipresence, holding:
  • A conch shell (Shankha) for the divine sound that purifies the world.
  • A discus (Sudarshana Chakra) for the mind, symbolizing the destruction of evil.
  • A mace (Kaumodaki) symbolizing the power of knowledge.
  • A lotus (Padma) for purity and creation.
• Vehicle: Garuda, the eagle, symbolizes swiftness and the divine vehicle of the deity.

Mythology:

• Cosmic Role: Vishnu is one of the principal deities of the Trimurti, tasked with maintaining the balance of the universe and preserving life. He intervenes to restore dharma (righteousness) whenever it declines.
• Incarnations (Avatars): Vishnu has descended to Earth in various forms known as avatars to combat evil and protect humanity. The Dashavatara or ten main avatars are:
  • Matsya (Fish) - Saved the world from a great deluge.
  • Kurma (Tortoise) - Supported the churning of the ocean.
  • Varaha (Boar) - Rescued the earth from the demon Hiranyaksha.
  • Narasimha (Man-Lion) - Killed the demon Hiranyakashipu.
  • Vamana (Dwarf) - Subdued the demon king Bali.
  • Parashurama - Cleared the earth of corrupt kings.
  • Rama - Exemplified ideal human virtues in the Ramayana.
  • Krishna - Gave the divine discourse in the Bhagavad Gita.
  • Buddha (in some traditions) - Preached non-violence and compassion.
  • Kalki (future avatar) - Will appear at the end of Kali Yuga to destroy evil.

Symbols:

• Shri Vatsa: A curl of hair on his chest, signifying Lakshmi's residence.
• Kaustubha: A jewel he wears, representing purity and beauty.

Worship:

• Vishnu is worshipped across India with numerous temples dedicated to him or his avatars, particularly significant ones like Tirupati Balaji (Venkateswara), Srirangam, and those dedicated to Krishna like Dwarka.
• Festivals like Janmashtami (Krishna's birthday) and Vaikuntha Ekadashi are celebrated with great devotion.

Legends:

• Lakshmi and Vishnu: Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is Vishnu's consort, symbolizing the inseparable nature of preservation and prosperity.
• The Churning of the Ocean: Vishnu played a crucial role in the Samudra Manthan, an event where both gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain amrita (nectar of immortality).

Cultural Impact: Vishnu's avatars and his role in Hindu mythology have deeply influenced art, literature, philosophy, and ethical teachings. He is seen as the ultimate protector, whose grace ensures the continuation of life and dharma.

Interesting Fact: Vishnu's association with yoga (Yoga-Nidra, his cosmic sleep from which he awakens to create) and his various avatars reflect a dynamic interplay between the divine and the mundane, teaching lessons of life, duty, and spirituality.