Trimurti

The trimurti is a concept in Hinduism that represents the three major aspects of the divine responsible for the cosmic functions of creation, maintenance, and destruction. The term trimurti literally means "three forms" or "three embodiments." The triad consists of Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer (often described as the transformer). In some traditions the roles are described as Brahma creating the universe, Vishnu preserving it, and Shiva dissolving it for renewal.

Origins and interpretation: The Trimurti arises in Puranic literature and later Hindu theology as a convenient summary of the universe's cycles and the diversity of divine expression. It can be read as three distinct gods or as facets of one supreme reality, depending on philosophical or sectarian viewpoint.

Iconography and worship: Brahma is frequently depicted with four faces and four Vedas, though his cult is comparatively minor in many regions. Vishnu is usually shown with his attributes, the conch and discus, and often with consorts; Shiva with the trishula (trident), damaru, and a third eye. In temple art, the Trimurti may appear as a single composite figure in rare representations, or more commonly as three separate deities within the same iconographic program.

Influence and variations: Some traditions emphasize either Vishnu or Shiva, with Brahma receiving limited worship. In other contexts the Trimurti is interpreted metaphorically as the cyclic processes of creation, maintenance, and dissolution that sustain the cosmos, rather than as strictly separate beings.