Trishula

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A Trishula is a type of traditional trident in some parts of India, seen as part of traditional religion, but which can also be used as a lethal weapon. This is the weapon wielded by Hindu God, Lord Shiva. The three points are said to represent Shiva's three aspects - creator, destroyer and protector.

  • Trishūla is Sanskrit for "three-spear". This is the original meaning of the term.
  • Trishula is the Pali word for a "Trident". The symbolic weapon of the Hindu god Shiva is a trishula.
  • Trishula can sometimes also designate the Buddhist symbol of the triratna.

Other Affliations: In Hinduism, Goddess Durga also hold the Trishula among seven other weapons in Her hands.

[edit] References

Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (ISBN 0-500-51088-1) by Anna L. Dallapiccola