Vishnu

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Vishnu Major god of Hinduism; one of the supreme triad of gods, along with Brahma and Shiva. Vishnu was mentioned as a sun god in the Vedas (c.1500–c.1200 bc). Over the next 1000 years or more, his importance grew and he became an amalgam of local cultic gods and heroes. In mythology, Vishnu is worshipped as a preserver and restorer. According to Hindu tradition, he reigns in heaven with his wife, Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. From time to time, he comes into the world to fight evil, assuming a different incarnation each time. His incarnations have included Rama and Krishna. In art, Vishnu is depicted as a young man with four hands holding a shell, discus, mace, and lotus.

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