Are Shiva And Vishnu Different?

"It is ignorance to think so. It is only the narrow-mindedness of these devotees. Some call themselves Vaishnavites (worshippers of Vishnu) and some others namely Shaivites (worshippers of Shiva or Eeshwara). But Vishnu and Shiva are the same. Vishnu holds in the four hands the conch, the discus, the mace and the lotus. Conch is the symbol of sound, the discus of time, the mace of power and the lotus of heart. He is the master of sound, time and power and the hearts of all beings. Similarly Shiva holds in His hands, 'Damaru' (the drum), Trishula (trident). Here Damaru stands for sound and Trishula for a three-pronged time. He is the master of time and sound. Thus. both are the same. only forms are different: Another example. Shiva is called Pashupati, the Lord of Pashu or beings. The individuals with the mind-principle are beings. Vishnu is called Gopal. the Lord of cows or beings. Actually both mean the same. Only narrow-minded people can never attain higher state", whatever practices they undertake for any length of time. We should recognise unity in diversity. This is true spirituality." Sai Baba. SS, 8/92. p. 176

"No distinction should be made between Shiva and Vishnu. The composer Annamacharya declared: 'While uttering Linga! Linga! Shiva-linga! Do not forget Oh man! Rama! Ranga! Both are one.' Whether the vehicle of the Lord is a bull or an eagle, the Lord is one and the same." Sai Baba, SS, 4/90. p. 88                                          .

Vishnu