Wisnu

Wisnu, commonly transliterated Vishnu in Sanskrit, is one of the principal deities of Hinduism. In many traditions he is the preserver and protector of the universe, sustaining cosmic order (dharma) within the Trimurti, alongside Brahma the creator and Shiva the destroyer. Vaishnavism regards Wisnu as the supreme being who descends in countless avatars to restore balance when righteousness wanes.

Iconography typically presents Wisnu with blue or dark skin and four arms, holding the conch shell (shankha) and discus (chakra), as well as a mace (gada) and a lotus. He is often shown standing on Garuda or reclining on Ananta-Shesha the cosmic serpent. The discus is a recurring emblem of his power to protect dharma.

Wisnu is especially associated with avatars, known as the Dashavatara in many traditions. Traditional avatars include Matsya (fish), Kurma (turtle), Varaha (boar), Narasimha (man-lion), Vamana (dwarf), Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, and in some lists Buddha and Kalki as future avatar. These incarnations are meant to guide humanity and restore order.

In Indonesia, Wisnu is a central figure in Hindu-Balinese worship. Temples, shrines, and ritual performances often depict Wisnu and his avatars, notably Rama and Krishna, with the Ramayana and Mahabharata narratives shaping local dances, Wayang kulit performances, and temple lore.

Name etymology traces to Sanskrit Vishnu, from root vi- "to pervade" or "all-pervading". Across regions, Wisnu is revered as the sustainer of life and the protector of devotees.

---