Vishnu

VISHNU is called the second person of Hindu Trimurti or the Triad: but though called second it must not be supposed that he is regarded in any way inferior to that of Brahmā. In some books Brahmā is said to be the first cause of all things in others it is as strongly asserted that Vishnu has this honor while in others it is claimed for Siva. As Brahmās special work is creation that of Vishnu is preservation. Amongst the thousand names of Vishnu the following in addition to those already given are most commonly known:—Madhusudana the destroyer of Madhu; and Kaitabhajit the conqueror of Kaitabha. These were two demons who issued from Vishnus ear as he lay asleep on the serpent Sesha at the end of a Kalpa and were about to destroy Brahmā as he sat on the lotus which sprang from Vishnus navel when this deity slew them and hence obtained these names:·         Vaikunthanāth The Lord of Paradise.·         Kesava He who has excellent hair.·         Madhava Made of honey; or a descendant of Madhu.·         Swayambhu The self-existent one.·         Pitamvara He who wears yellow garments.·         Janārddana He who causes the people to worship.·         Vishvamvara The protector of the world.·         Hari The saviour; lit. he who takes possession of.