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HINDUISM Fact Sheet Practitioners of Hinduism recognize one Supreme Being, Brahman, meaning “the universal soul.” This one Supreme Being is recognized in a holy trinity called “Trimurti.” This trinity includes Brahma, the creator, Vishnu, the preserver, and Shiva, the destroyer. One misconception of the Hindu faith is that it consists of a pantheon of gods and goddesses, each having its own specific job, much the same as the ancient Greek and Roman faiths. While there is some truth to that, it is actually much more complex. The holy trinity described above have a great number of avatars each. These avatars are incarnations of the deity that comes to earth for varying reasons. Each god also has one or more consorts, or spouses. Often times, the purpose of the consort is to bring balance to the great power the god possesses. Finally, there are also regional differences of the same deity, which may add confusion. Those who worship the Hindu faith will typically chose one god above all others to worship, similar to a denomination. Brahma is seen as an important part of the holy trinity, but does not have a following. He is recognized as the son of Brahman and the creator of the universe, therefore his work is done. The following are the deities which are central to the different denominations of the Hindu faith. Vishnu Avatars include: Krishna, Rama Consorts include: Lakshmi, Sita, Rukmini Vishnu is known in the Hindu trinity as the preserver of the universe. However, to those that worship Vishnu as a Supreme Being, he is the most important god, the god that protects, gives life, and has the power to end life. He comes to earth in many incarnations to protect the universe and humanity from tyranny and natural disasters. In art form, Vishnu is easily recognizable as he is usually painted blue. Copyright 2010 by Museum of World Treasures Shiva Avatars include: Bhairava, Mahesha Consorts: Shakti, Kali, Parvati, Durga Although listed in the Hindu trinity as the destroyer, Shiva is worshipped by his followers as the creator, preserver, and destroyer. In Shiva, opposites meet. He represents good and evil, life and death. He is known as the Lord of the Dance, and controls all movement throughout the universe. In art, he is often depicted in the Nataraja, or the sculpture representing the dance of life. Shakti Avatars include: Kali, Parvati, Durga Consorts include: Shiva Shakti is known as the Great Goddess. The word “Shakti” means power, force, and female energy. Each of her many avatars represent her many abilities. As Kali, she is a violent, destructive force. As Parvati, she is gentle and nurturing. As Durga, she rides a tiger which represents the female energy having power over the male ego and arrogance. She is the balance to the powerful male forces in the Hindu trinity.