Harihara facts for kids
Harihara is a special deity (or god) in the Hindu religion. This god is a mix of two very important Hindu gods: Vishnu and Shiva. Imagine them joining together to become one!
Sometimes, the word Harihara is also used to talk about a big idea. It means that even though Vishnu and Shiva seem different, they are actually two parts of the same Supreme God. It shows their unity and how they work together.
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Who is Harihara?
Harihara is a unique form of God. The name Harihara comes from combining two names. "Hari" is a name for Vishnu, and "Hara" is a name for Shiva. So, Harihara literally means "Vishnu-Shiva."
This deity shows that these two powerful gods are not separate. They are different sides of the same ultimate reality. It's like two sides of a coin, both part of the same thing.
Why are Vishnu and Shiva combined?
In Hinduism, Vishnu is often seen as the preserver of the universe. He keeps things balanced and protects life. Shiva is often seen as the destroyer and transformer. He brings about change and new beginnings.
The idea of Harihara shows that creation, preservation, and destruction are all connected. They are all part of the same divine power. It teaches that everything in the universe is linked.
How Harihara Looks
Statues and pictures of Harihara are very interesting. They usually show one body split down the middle. One half looks like Vishnu, and the other half looks like Shiva.
- The Vishnu half (usually on the right side of the image) often has a darker skin tone, like blue or black. He holds items like a Sudarshana Chakra (a spinning disc) or a conch shell.
- The Shiva half (usually on the left side of the image) often has a lighter skin tone, like white or ash-colored. He might wear a tiger skin and hold a Trishula (a trident).
This visual split clearly shows the two gods in one form. It helps people understand the unity of their powers.
Importance of Harihara
The concept of Harihara is very important in Hindu philosophy. It teaches that different paths can lead to the same truth. It encourages people to see unity in diversity.
Followers of Vishnu (Vaishnavites) and followers of Shiva (Shaivites) can both find common ground in Harihara. This deity helps bridge any differences between these groups. It reminds everyone that the ultimate divine power is one.
Images for kids
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Vishnu ( holding Sudarshana Chakra) and Shiva (lighter coloured half, wearing tiger skin, holding Trishula) combined in a single Harihara murti, sometimes referred to as Sivakesavaand "Haryadhamurti".
See also
In Spanish: Harihara para niños
