Tridev or Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh in Hinduism

What is Tridev Or Trimurti & who are Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh in Hinduism? 

By Intimate Viewpoint

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of Tridev—comprising Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva)—occupies a central place. These three divine forms collectively represent the cosmic functions of creation, preservation, and destruction. Although each deity is worshipped independently, Hindu scriptures describe them as three manifestations of one supreme cosmic reality, working together to maintain balance in the universe.

The concept of GOD also express the three divine supreme power (G:generator, O:operator, D:destroyer). The generator is Brahma, Operator is Vishnu and destroyer is Mahesh or shiv.  

Concept of Tridev in Hinduism

The Tridev—also known as the Trimurti—is a symbolic representation of the cyclical nature of existence. According to ancient texts, nothing in the universe is permanent. Everything passes through stages of birth, life, and dissolution. The Tridev personify these three eternal principles:

Brahma – The Creator

Vishnu – The Preserver

Mahesh (Shiva) – The Destroyer/Transformer

These functions are not isolated but interconnected. Creation begins with destruction, and preservation sustains creation until cosmic dissolution occurs, which again makes way for new creation.

Brahma – The Creator

Role in Scriptures

Brahma is the god of creation and is responsible for forming the universe, living beings, time cycles, and knowledge. His role is described primarily in:

Vedas

Puranas such as the Brahma Purana and Bhagavata Purana

Manusmriti

According to the Puranic traditions, Brahma emerged from the lotus that sprouted from the navel of Lord Vishnu during the beginning of creation. He then created the four Vedas, the universe, and all forms of life.

Iconography

Brahma is depicted with:

Four faces, symbolizing the four Vedas

Four arms, holding the Vedas, rosary, water pot, and kamandalu

A white beard, symbolizing knowledge and wisdom

Worship

While Brahma is revered, his worship is less prevalent than that of Vishnu and Shiva. The most famous temple dedicated to him is the Brahma Temple in Pushkar, Rajasthan. 

Vishnu – The Preserver

Role in Scriptures

Lord Vishnu is the preserver and sustainer of the universe. His role is elaborated in:

Vishnu Purana

Bhagavad Gita

Srimad Bhagavatam

Vishnu maintains cosmic order (dharma). Whenever negative forces disrupt balance, Vishnu incarnates on earth in various avatars to restore righteousness. The ten major avatars include:

Matsya (fish)

kurma (tortoise)

Varaha (boar) 

Rama

Krishna

Narasimha (man-lion) 

Vamana

Buddha (in certain texts)

Kalki (future avatar)

Iconography

Vishnu is depicted as:

Having four arms

Holding Shankha (conch), Chakra (discus), Gada (mace), and Padma (lotus)

Resting on Sheshnag on the cosmic ocean

Worship

Vishnu is widely worshipped across India. Major pilgrimage sites include:

Tirupati

Badrinath

Dwarka

Jagannath Puri

Mahesh (Shiva) – The Destroyer and Transformer

Role in Scriptures

Shiva, also known as Mahesh or Mahadeva, represents the power of destruction, but destruction in Hinduism is not negative—it is a necessary force for transformation and new creation.

His stories appear prominently in:

Shiva Purana

Linga Purana

Skanda Purana

Mahabharata

Upanishads

Shiva is the lord of meditation, arts, yogis, and cosmic dance. His dance, Tandava, symbolizes the cycle of creation and destruction.

Iconography

Shiva is portrayed with:

Third eye, representing knowledge beyond the physical realm

Crescent moon, symbolizing time

Ganga flowing from his hair, showing purity and life

Trident (Trishul)

Damru (cosmic drum)

Shiva resides on Mount Kailash with Goddess Parvati and their sons Ganesha and Kartikeya.

Worship

Shiva is among the most widely worshipped deities. Major shrines include:

Kashi Vishwanath

Kedarnath

Somnath

Amarnath

Mahakaleshwar

Symbolism of the Tridev

The Tridev concept teaches profound philosophical truths:

* Unity in Diversity

Though Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva have different roles, they are forms of the same supreme consciousness. This reflects the Hindu belief in one truth with many manifestations.

* The Cycle of Life

The roles of Tridev symbolize the cycle of existence:

Creation (birth)

Preservation (life)

Destruction (death or transformation)

* Balance of the Universe

The harmony between the three deities maintains cosmic order. If any one aspect dominates, balance is disturbed.

Tridev in Major Texts

In the Vedas

The Vedas mention their respective functions symbolically through various deities connected to nature, fire, and cosmic principles.

In the Puranas

The Puranas clearly define the Tridev and narrate stories of cooperation and unity among them.

In the Upanishads

The Trimurti is recognized as manifestations of the single supreme truth, Brahman.

Relationship Between Tridev and Shakti

Hinduism also emphasizes that each member of the Tridev is incomplete without their Shakti (divine feminine energy):

Saraswati – Shakti of Brahma (Goddess of Knowledge)

Lakshmi – Shakti of Vishnu (Goddess of Prosperity)

Parvati/Durga – Shakti of Shiva (Goddess of Power)

Together, Tridev and their Shakti form the six fundamental powers that uphold creation.

Conclusion

The concept of Tridev in Hindu scriptures reflects the deepest philosophical understanding of the universe. Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh are not three separate gods but three essential powers of the same cosmic reality. Their unity teaches us about balance, transformation, and the interconnectedness of all existence.

Through their stories, symbols, and divine roles, the Tridev inspire millions of devotees to understand life’s cycle and to live with wisdom, harmony, and spiritual awareness.