Trisula
From Buddhist Encyclopedia
Three Jewels
Buddha . Dharma . Sangha
Three Dharma Seals
Anicca . Dukkha . Anatta
Karma . Rebirth
Samsara . Nirvana
Four Noble Truths
Seven Sets
Four Frames of Reference
Four Right Exertions
Four Bases of Power
Five Faculties
Five Strengths
Seven Factors of Awakening
Noble Eightfold Path
Bodhisattva
Four Great Vows
Ten Great Vows
A Trishula is a type of traditional trident in some parts of India, seen as part of traditional religion, but which can also be used as a lethal weapon. This is the weapon wielded by Hindu God, Lord Shiva. The three points are said to represent Shiva's three aspects - creator, destroyer and protector.
- Trishūla is Sanskrit for "three-spear". This is the original meaning of the term.
- Trishula is the Pali word for a "Trident". The symbolic weapon of the Hindu god Shiva is a trisula.
- Trishula can sometimes also designate the Buddhist symbol of the triratna.
Other Affliations: In Hinduism, Goddess Durga also hold the Trishula among seven other weapons in Her hands.
Reference
Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (ISBN 0-500-51088-1) by Anna L. Dallapiccola
