Trishula (Sanskrit: त्रिशूल, "three spears") is the sacred trident of the god Shiva and one of the most powerful symbols of Hinduism. The three prongs represent different triads depending on the tradition: the Trimurti (Brahma–Vishnu–Shiva), the three Gunas (Tamas–Rajas–Sattva), the three states of consciousness (waking–dreaming–deep sleep) or the three main energy channels of the body (Ida–Pingala–Sushumna).
Shiva bears the Trishula as a sign of his sovereignty over all three worlds (heaven, earth, underworld) and of his power to penetrate and destroy illusion (Maya). In spiritual practice, the Trishula is a symbol for the transcendence of ego, the dissolution of duality and the recognition of the unity behind all opposites.
As an amulet and ritual object it is said to offer protection from negative energies, bestow inner strength and accelerate spiritual transformation. It is closely associated with Shiva incense and the sound of the mantra Om Namah Shivaya.
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