Definition

1. Proper noun:

   • The Creator; one of the three major deities in the later Hindu pantheon: In Hinduism, Brahma is the god responsible for the creation of the universe and all beings within it. He is part of the Trimurti, which also includes Vishnu (the preserver) and Shiva (the destroyer).

2. Noun:

   • Any of several breeds of Indian cattle; especially a large American heat and tick resistant greyish humped breed evolved in the Gulf States by interbreeding Indian cattle and now used chiefly for crossbreeding: This refers to a specific breed of zebu cattle, known for a distinctive hump, loose skin, and resistance to hot climates and parasites.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Hindu deity):

  • Brahma is often depicted with four heads and four arms.
  • According to Hindu mythology, the universe cycles through periods of creation by Brahma, preservation by Vishnu, and destruction by Shiva.

• Noun (cattle breed):

  • The rancher introduced Brahma bulls to improve the hardiness of his herd.
  • Brahma cattle are well-suited to the hot, humid climate of the southern United States.

Advanced Usage

• "Brahma" in philosophical context: In Hindu philosophy, 'Brahma' can sometimes be conceptually linked to 'Brahman', the ultimate, formless reality of the universe, though they are distinct terms.
  • Some texts explore the relationship between the deity Brahma and the impersonal absolute Brahman.

Variants and Related Words

• Brahman (also Brahmin) (noun):

  • A member of the highest Hindu caste, traditionally assigned to priestly and scholarly duties.
  • Another term for the Brahman breed of cattle, synonymous with Brahma in this context.
  • In Vedanta philosophy, the supreme cosmic power, the ultimate reality.

• Brahmā (proper noun): A transliteration that emphasizes the long final vowel, used to specify the deity.

Synonyms

• Creator god (for the deity).
• Zebu or Bos indicus (for the type of cattle; Brahma is a specific breed within this classification).

Related Phrases and Concepts

• The Trimurti: The Hindu trinity of Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Shiva (destroyer).
• Saraswati: The goddess of knowledge, music, and arts, who is the consort of Brahma.
• Brahman bull: A common term for a male of the Brahma cattle breed.

Noun

1. any of several breeds of Indian cattle; especially a large American heat and tick resistant greyish humped breed evolved in the Gulf States by interbreeding Indian cattle and now used chiefly for crossbreeding
2. the Creator; one of the three major deities in the later Hindu pantheon