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Classical Hinduism Essay

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There are several deities that are associated with classical Hinduism, although, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva together make up the Hindu Trinity or Trimurti. Vishnu or “the all-pervading” one is viewed as the world’s protector, and he is said to have appeared on Earth in both the forms of human and animal. Vishnu is frequently depicted as a man with four arms, and each hand holds a pennant that symbolizes his divinity. The pennants include, a lotus, club, discus and conch. Vishnu’s purpose was to establish dharma, which refers to an individuals rightful duty. Dharma is the idea that everyone on this planet has been born with a purpose to fulfill throughout their life. Vishnu is described as being a harmonious, forgiving and compassionate God. Vishnu is thought to have completed nine incarnations also known as the avatars. His tenth incarnation, Kalki, is believed to occur sometime in the future. Each time Vishnu has appeared on Earth, it was because the world was experiencing a state of chaos. Brahma is the first god of the Trimurti, and is viewed as the creator of the world and all of its possessions. He is believed to have been born from a golden egg. Brahma is normally portrayed as having four arms, as well as, four faces. He possesses four faces because he is associated with the …show more content…
Unlike Vishnu, Shiva does not reveal himself in a chronological order, and he emerges in paradox roles that prove his wide range of power. He is viewed as a creator as well as a destroyer. For example, he can be a caring herdsman at times, but also a slaughter. He is known by many as the master of pregnancy and life, as well as the master of poison, due to his ability to control snakes. Shiva is depicted in many different forms, some of which include, a cosmic dancer, yogi, naked ascetic, or a mendicant beggar. Shiva is occasionally depicted with his consort as one-being, in the body of both a male and

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