Hanuman is not Lord Vishnu: Hanuman is a distinct deity in Hinduism, known for his immense strength, devotion to Lord Rama, and intelligence. He is often depicted as a monkey, symbolizing his connection to nature and animal instincts, while also representing the overcoming of obstacles and the power of devotion.
Hanuman is a devotee of Lord Vishnu: Hanuman is a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, specifically in his avatar as Rama. He is known for his unwavering loyalty, obedience, and service to Rama, even going to great lengths to protect him and his wife Sita.
Hanuman as an embodiment of Vishnu's qualities: Some interpretations of Hindu mythology suggest that Hanuman embodies certain qualities of Lord Vishnu, particularly his strength, courage, and the ability to take on different forms (in Hanuman's case, transforming into a monkey). This doesn't mean he *is* Vishnu, but rather that he reflects some of his divine attributes.
The concept of "avatars": The idea of "avatars" plays a crucial role here. In Hinduism, Vishnu is believed to have taken on various forms (avatars) to restore balance and righteousness in the world. While Hanuman is not one of Vishnu's primary avatars like Rama or Krishna, he is often seen as a representative of Vishnu's power and devotion.
In summary:
* Hanuman is not Lord Vishnu himself.
* He is a distinct deity known for his devotion to Vishnu's avatar Rama.
* He embodies certain qualities of Vishnu, representing his strength, courage, and transformative abilities.
* He is an important figure in Hindu mythology, symbolizing unwavering faith and service to a higher power.
The relationship between Hanuman and Lord Vishnu is a multifaceted one, encompassing devotion, embodiment of qualities, and the concept of divine avatars, rather than a simple equation of one being the other.