Trishula- A Symbol in Religion August, 2014 | Page 2

Trident as a Religious Symbol
Introduction
A trident also called a Trishula, leister or gig, is a three-pronged spear. It is used for
spear fishing and was also a military weapon. Tridents are featured widely in mythical,
historical and modern culture. As a weapon, the trident was prized for its long reach
and ability to trap other long-weapons between prongs to disarm their wielder. In
Ancient Rome, in a parody of fishing, tridents were famously used by a type of
gladiator.

Trident in the Greek/Roman Mythology
The trident symbol, from the fishing origins is most commonly associated with
Poseidon, the god of the oceans and sea in Greek mythology. Neptune in the Roman
Mythology or Poseidon in the Greek mythology was the second most powerful god
who ruled the seas. When he was in a good mood, Poseidon created new lands in the
water and a calm sea. In contrast, when he was in a bad mood, Poseidon would strike
the ground with a trident and cause unruly springs and earthquakes, ship wrecks, and
drowning. By hitting the earth with his trident, Poseidon created the horse and some
water sources in Greece.

Left: Poseidon and Right: Shiva

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