
A Trishula
:'''Trisula' redirects here. For the
genus of
noctuid moths, see ''
Trisula (moth).
A 'Trishula' (
Sanskrit त्रिशूल) is a type of traditional
Indian
trident, usually a
Hindu religious symbol. The trishula is wielded by the Hindu God
Shiva and is said to have been used to sever the original head of the Hindu God
Ganesha. The three points have various meanings and significance, and, common to Hindu mythology, have many stories behind them. They are commonly said to represent various trinities--creation, maintenance and destruction, past, present and future, the three
gunas.
★ ''Trishūla'' is
Sanskrit for "three-spear". This is the original meaning of the term.
★ 'Trishula' is the
Pali word for a "Trident".
★ 'Trishula' can sometimes also designate the Buddhist symbol of the
triratna.
The Goddess
Durga also holds the Trishula among other weapons in Her hands.