A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.2111

c5.2111

The worshippers of Vishnu recognise in him the supreme being from whom all things emanate. In the Mahā-bhārata and in the Purānas he is the Prajāpati (creator) and supreme god. As such, he has three Avasthas or conditions:—1. That of Brahmā, the active creator, who is represented as springing from a lotus which grew from Vishnu’s navel while he was sleeping afloat upon the waters. 2. Vishnu himself, the preserver, in an Avatāra or incarnate form, as in Krishna. 3. Siva or Rudra, the destructive power, who, according to a statement of the Mahā-bhārata, sprang from his forehead. But though the Mahā-bhārata generally allows Vishnu the supremacy, it does not do so invariably and exclusively. There are passages which uphold Siva as the greatest of the gods, and represent Vishnu as paying him homage. The Saiva Purānas of course make Siva supreme.