Hinduism - Have you ever wondered if Hindus worship one God or many Gods, why do Hindus worship images and icons, why does the God in Hinduism have multiple names and multiple forms of God?

* There are human and animal forms of Vishnu.

Brahman

The syllable OM, also spelt AUM, is believed to have been the first word or sound spoken when the world was made. Brahman made this sound. There is not a picture of Brahman as Brahman is a spirit and he pervades the universe, which means he is everywhere. Brahman is God in Hinduism and all the other Gods are to show different aspects of Brahmans personality and characteristics.

The Hindu Triad

The Hindu triad consists of 3 Gods. The three Gods are called Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. These are all male god's and each one covers the three main aspects of Brahman.

Brahma

Brahma is the first god of the Hindu Triad, also known as the Trimurti, he is the creator god and is shown with four heads facing in four different directions, symbolizing that he created the whole universe. Brahma is shown with four arms, each holding a different item to show his personality and characteristics. Sometimes Brahma is shown sitting on a lotus to show purity and cleanliness. This is a picture of Brahma (Don't get Brahman mixed up with Brahma, Brahman is God and Brahma is an aspect of God.)

Shiva

Shiva is. the aspect of Brahman which destroys and recreates the universe. Lord Shiva appears in a meditating but ever-happy posture. He has matted hair which holds the flowing Ganges river and a crescent moon, a serpent coiled around his neck, a trident in his one hand and ashes all over his body. The items that Vishnu has represent his victory over the calmness of human nature. His vehicle is a bull (symbol of happiness and strength) named Nandi. This is a picture of Shiva.

Vishnu

Is the preserver god of the Trimurti and he has four hands. Each hand holds a different item symbolising different aspects of Hinduism. He has a vehicle, which is a swift - flying bird, which can spread the word of Hinduism with great courage. Vishnu rests on the bed of the powerful, coiled serpent, Seshanag who represents the sleeping universe. Lord Vishnu is also known as Hari, the remover. This is a picture of Vishnu.

Is Hinduism monotheistic or polytheistic?

This is one of the many questions that occur when talking about Hinduism and its Gods. Some people would say its polytheistic because hindus seem to worship more then one God. This is wrong because there is only one God in Hinduism and that is Brahman. The other Gods are just aspects of the one God, Brahman.

Note: All words in red are explained in the word list at the back of the book

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