Lord Vishnu

Lord Vishnu, is one of the principal deities of Hinduism and the central figure of the Vaishnav tradition.

Who is Lord Vishnu?

• Vishnu is the Preserver and Protector of the Universe in the Hindu Trinity (Trimurti) – along with Brahma (the Creator) and Shiva (the Destroyer).
• He is considered the embodiment of compassion, mercy, and balance, maintaining cosmic order (dharma).

Iconography

• Usually depicted with blue skin, symbolising infinity and the cosmic sky/ocean.
• He rests on the serpent Ananta Shesha, floating on the cosmic ocean.
• His consort is Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
• He carries the four symbols in his hands:
  • Shankha (Conch) – symbol of Om, the cosmic sound.
  • Chakra (Sudarshan Disc) – symbol of dharma and destruction of evil.
  • Gada (Mace) – symbol of strength.
  • Padma (Lotus) – symbol of purity and liberation.

Avatars of Lord Vishnu

Vishnu incarnates on earth whenever dharma declines. These are called Dashavatara (10 Avatars):

1. Matsya (Fish) – saved the Vedas from the flood.
2. Kurma (Tortoise) – supported Mount Mandara during Samudra Manthan.
3. Varaha (Boar) – rescued Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha.
4. Narasimha (Half-lion, half-man) – destroyed the demon Hiranyakashipu.
5. Vamana (Dwarf Brahmin) – subdued King Bali.
6. Parashurama (Warrior with an axe) – restored dharma.
7. Rama (Prince of Ayodhya) – hero of Ramayana.
8. Krishna – divine statesman, giver of the Bhagavad Gita.
9. Buddha (some traditions include him) – taught compassion.
10. Kalki (future avatar) – will come on a white horse to end Kali Yuga.

Meaning of Vishnu

• From the Sanskrit root “vish”, meaning “to pervade”.
• Vishnu is “the All-Pervading One,” present everywhere in the universe.

Role in Hindu Belief

• Protector of devotees (bhaktas).
• Upholder of truth and righteousness (dharma).
• Removes evil, restores balance, and blesses the world with peace and prosperity.