Who is considered the creative force of the universe in Hinduism?

In Hinduism, Brahma is recognized as the creative force of the universe. He is part of the Trimurti, which consists of Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. Brahma's role involves the initiation of creation and the establishment of order in the cosmos. According to Hindu beliefs, Brahma is responsible for creating all living beings and everything in the material world, which positions him as the foundational creative principle in the universe.

Brahma is often depicted with four heads, symbolizing the four Vedas (the foundational texts of Hindu philosophy and practice), indicating his comprehensive knowledge and power in the act of creation. This understanding of Brahma as the creative force sets him apart from other deities in Hinduism, each of whom has distinct functions and attributes related to preservation, destruction, or specific aspects of life and the universe.