The Preserver of the Universe
Vishnu is the preserver and protector within the Trimurti, the deity who sustains cosmic order, or dharma. Depicted with blue skin and four arms holding a conch, discus, mace, and lotus, he reclines on the serpent Shesha upon the cosmic ocean between cycles of creation. His consort is Lakshmi, goddess of fortune.
The name "Vishnu" likely derives from the Sanskrit root vish, meaning "to pervade" or "to enter," marking him as the all-pervading presence that fills and supports the universe. He is also called Narayana, "he who dwells on the waters."
Whenever cosmic balance is threatened, Vishnu descends to earth as an avatar. His ten principal avatars, the Dashavatara, include Rama and Krishna, heroes of the great epics who restore righteousness and defeat demonic forces. This doctrine of divine descent makes Vishnu the most actively present of the three great gods, intervening directly in the affairs of the world.
The righteous prince of the Ramayana.
The divine cowherd and charioteer of the Mahabharata.
The man-lion who slays the demon Hiranyakashipu.
Common Questions
What are Vishnu's avatars?
They are his earthly incarnations, the Dashavatara, including Rama and Krishna, who appear to restore dharma when evil rises.
