Hindu Gods

Hindu religion boasts of several hundred million gods and goddeses. The exact number ofcourse changes from one source to another. The large number is merely symbolic expression to the fundamental Hindu doctrine that God lives in the hearts of all living beings. Despite the number and varied beliefs there is a remarkable sense of religious tolerance embedded within the
pantheon of countless Hindu gods and goddesses, allowing anyone to experience
the divine in the way that suits best at a particular time.

Hindus view cosmic activity of the Supreme Being as comprised of three tasks: creation, preservation, and dissolution and recreation. Hindus associate these three cosmic tasks with the three deities, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Lord Brahma brings forth the creation and represents the creative principle of the Supreme Being. Lord Vishnu maintains the universe and represents the eternal principle of preservation. Lord Shiva represents the principle of dissolution and recreation. These three deities together form the Hindu Trinity.