Vishnu Worship or Fear? Andrew Gazzillo ERH 211X-03 Mr. Bailey

Basics -Vishnu is regarded as one of the most popular and powerful of the gods in Hinduism -Almost always depicted with four arms, symbolizing duty and virtue, material wealth and success, pleasure, and liberation. -Objects being held are a discus, lotus, conch shell, and a mace that respectively symbolize the thoughts of the human mind, the creation of the universe, the sound of creation, and the evolution of time. - In Hinduism Vishnu is generally regarded as the god who preserves and protects

Why Worship? Many Hindu’s consider Vishnu part of the “holy trinity” of their people. Vishnu proves to be a common denominator in almost every sect of Hinduism despite his names. He is generally considered the cause for the birth of Brahma and therefore the creation of the universe. According to Hindu’s he is all-knowing, possesses rule over all beings, the ability to preform miracles and an the powers to support all creation by his own free will.

Fear? In other religions, a general “fear of God (a god)” is embraced. This is mainly due to the belief that a god in all his power can just as easy take our universe as easily as it was created. However, Hindu’s in their belief that Vishnu is “the preserver” embraces his power, prays for it, and are comforted by it. They support Vishnu’s own choice to protect life and hold his presence close to their hearts. This feeling of closeness to gods of such immense power is a major difference between Hinduism and other common world religions. Even Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction, is greatly admired and respected further proving that gods are not feared rather they are happily embraced life in Hinduism.

Sources s/vishnu.htm s/vishnu.htm God is Not One