Lord Brahma

Brahma is the Hindu god of creation and one of the Trimurti (Holy Trinity), which also includes Lord Vishnu (the preserver) and Lord Shiva (the destroyer).

Role and Significance

As the 'Grandfather' of the universe, Brahma is responsible for creating all living beings and the cosmos. He is believed to be born from a lotus that emerged from the navel of Vishnu at the beginning of the universe.

Iconography and Symbolism

Brahma is traditionally depicted with four heads, four faces, and four arms.

• Four Heads: Each head represents one of the four Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva), which are believed to have emanated from his mouths.
• Four Arms: Represent the four directions and the four aspects of the human personality: mind (Manas), intellect (Buddhi), ego (Ahankara), and consciousness (Chitta).
• The Swan (Hamsa): His vehicle, symbolizing the power of discrimination (separating good from evil).
• Consort: His wife is Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.

Why Brahma is Worshipped Less

Unlike Vishnu and Shiva, there are very few temples dedicated to Brahma. According to various Puranic legends, this is due to a curse (sometimes attributed to Shiva or Savitri) or because his job of creation is complete, while preservation and transformation are ongoing. The most famous temple dedicated to him is in Pushkar, Rajasthan.

Spiritual Aspect

Brahma represents the creative power of the ultimate reality (Brahman). He teaches that knowledge and focus are the prerequisites for any creation.