Trishula
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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