Brahma

The Creator god in the Trimurti (Hindu trinity); god of creation, knowledge, and the Vedas.

Brahma is the creator god in Hinduism, forming part of the Trimurti (Hindu trinity) along with Vishnu (the preserver) and Shiva (the destroyer). He is responsible for the creation of the universe and all beings within it. Brahma is traditionally depicted with four heads, each facing a cardinal direction, symbolizing his omnipresence and his creation of the four Vedas. He holds a rosary (mala) for counting time and creation, a water pot (kamandalu) symbolizing the primeval waters from which creation emerges, a scepter, and the Vedas themselves. His mount is a Hamsa (swan), which symbolizes discrimination and purity. Unlike Vishnu and Shiva, Brahma is not widely worshipped today, primarily because his role as creator is considered complete. However, he is revered for his significant role in the cosmic cycle and as the source of all knowledge and the Vedas.

Alternate Names:

Prajapati

Hiranyagarbha

Gyaneshwar

Vedanatha

Kamalasana

Atma Bhu

Symbols:

Four faces

Lotus flower (Kamala)

Vedas (scriptures)

Rosary (Akshamala)

Water pot (Kamandalu)

Swan (Hamsa)

Vahana (Vehicle):

Hamsa (Swan)

Weapons:

None traditionally wielded as weapons, his tools are symbols of creation and knowledge.

Genealogy:

Self-born (Svayambhu) from a lotus springing from the navel of Vishnu (in Vaishnava tradition) or from the primeval waters (in other traditions); consort of Saraswati (goddess of knowledge); father of the four Kumaras, Narada, Daksha, and many other Prajapatis (progenitors of humanity).