A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.294

c5.294

Brahmā is said to be of a red colour. He has four heads; originally he had five, but one was burnt off by the fire of Siva's central eye because he had spoken disrespectfully. Hence he is called Chatur-ānana or Chatur-mukha, ‘four-faced,’ and Ashta-karna, ‘eight-eared.’ He has four arms; and in his hands he holds his sceptre, or a spoon, or a string of beads, or his bow Parivīta, or a water jug, and the Veda. His consort is Saraswatī, goddess of learning, also called Brāhmī. His vehicle is a swan or goose, from which he is called Hansa-vāhana. His residence is called Brahma-vrindā.