Trishula

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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 symbolism is polyvalent and rich. The trishula may also be mounted on a danda or staff. 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 and attributes in Her hands and amongst her accoutrement, and in this context may be emblematic of her consort Shiva.