A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.2114

c5.2114

As preserver and restorer, Vishnu is a very popular deity, and the worship paid to him is of a joyous character. He has a thousand names (Sahasra-nāma), the repetition of which is a meritorious act of devotion. His wife is Lakshmī or Srī, the goddess of fortune, his heaven is Vaikuntha, and his vehicle is the bird Garuda. He is represented as a comely youth of a dark-blue colour, and dressed like an ancient king. He has four hands. One holds the Panchajanya (q.v.), a Sankha or conch-shell; another the Su-darsana or Vajra-nābha, a chakra or quoit weapon; the third, a Gadā or club called Kaumodakī; and the fourth, a Padma or lotus. He has a bow called Sārnga, and a sword called Nandaka. On his breast are the peculiar mark or curl called Srī-vatsa and the jewel Kaustubha, and on his wrist is the jewel Syamantaka. He is sometimes represented seated on a lotus with Lakshmī beside him, or reclining on a leaf of that plant. Sometimes he is portrayed reclining on the serpent Sesha, and at others as riding on his gigantic bird Garuda.