A trident used as one of the principal symbols of Hinduism, and to a lesser extent by some Buddhist sects. It is wielded by various deities, most prominently Shiva, Durga, Kali and some guardian figures in Vajrayana Buddhist iconography. The three points symbolise various trinities, including that of creation, sustenance and destruction. The term also refers to a short-handled weapon mounted on a staff with a three-pointed blade at the end.