Trishula in the Hindu Mythology June, 2014 | Página 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 longweapons 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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