Narayana

Narayana is a Sanscrit word of somewhat uncertain etymology, commonly supposed to signify moving upon the waters, and applied in the Hiindu mythology to the universal divine Spirit, which existed before all worlds (comp. Ge 1:2). In this sense Narayana may be regarded as another name for Brahm (q.v.). but t is also frequently used as one of the many appellations of Vishnu. See Moor, Hindu Pantheon, page 102.