The two major Hindu deities are Shiva and VISHNU. Shiva is known as the destroyer and transformer, while VISHNU is known as the preserver and protector. Shiva is often depicted with four arms and a third eye, and is associated with the elements of fire, water, and air. VISHNU is usually depicted with four arms and is associated with the elements of earth, water, and air. Both deities are considered to be part of the Trimurti, or the three main gods of Hinduism.