The Sanskrit word "Vishnu" is often spelled in English as "Vishnu" or "Vishnù". Its pronunciation is represented by the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription as /vɪʃnu/ or /vɪʃnʊ/. This Hindu god is considered one of the principal deities of Hinduism, and is often depicted as having a blue complexion, four arms, and holding various symbols such as a conch shell, chakra, and lotus flower. The word "Vishnu" is derived from the Sanskrit word "vish", which means "to enter" or "to pervade".
Vishnu is a prominent deity in Hinduism and is considered one of the principal gods in the Hindu pantheon. The term "Vishnu" originates from the ancient Sanskrit language and is derived from the root word "vish," which means to "pervade" or "spread." As a result, Vishnu is often understood as the all-pervading Supreme Being or the preserver and protector of the universe in Hindu mythology.
According to Hindu beliefs, Vishnu is regarded as the one who maintains the balance of the cosmos and ensures its continuity. He is commonly depicted as having a dark-blue complexion and four arms, holding a variety of objects symbolic of his attributes. Vishnu is also often portrayed reclining on the cosmic serpent known as Shesha, floating on the cosmic waters.
Devotees of Vishnu primarily worship him in his various avatars, or incarnations, such as Rama, Krishna, and Narasimha, among others. These avatars are said to descend on Earth to restore order, uphold righteousness, and vanquish evil forces. Vishnu is also associated with the concept of dharma, representing the ethical and moral order of the universe. His worship is widely practiced across different regions of India and beyond, with temples dedicated to him being found worldwide.
Additionally, Vishnu holds a significant place in Hindu religious texts, such as the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the epic scriptures like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. These texts describe his divine qualities, exploits, and deep philosophical teachings, offering guidance and wisdom to his followers.
A Hindoo divinity regarded as the "preserver," the second person of their trinity,-the first being Brahma, the creator, and the third Siva, the destroyer of the creation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Vishnu" has its roots in ancient Sanskrit, an Indo-Aryan language that was spoken in ancient India. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word "viṣ" which means "to pervade" or "to enter into" and the word "nu" which denotes "possessing" or "being endowed with".
When combined, "viṣ" and "nu" form "Vishnu", indicating the meaning of the word as "the one who pervades or enters into everything" or "the one who possesses or is endowed with all qualities and attributes". In Hinduism, Vishnu is considered one of the principal deities and a member of the Trimurti, the trinity of Hindu gods, along with Brahma (the creator) and Shiva (the destroyer). Vishnu is often revered as the preserver and protector of the universe.