Narasimha

Narasimha is the fourth avatar of Vishnu — the half-man, half-lion. He appeared to protect his devotee Prahlada from his tyrannical father, the demon king Hiranyakashipu, who had obtained a boon that he could not be killed by man or beast, during day or night, indoors or outdoors, on the ground or in the sky, by any weapon. Vishnu circumvented every clause — appearing as neither man nor beast, at twilight, on the threshold of a palace, placing the demon on his lap, and killing him with his nails. Narasimha represents the fierce protection of devotees and the inescapable reach of divine justice. He is worshipped for protection from enemies, lawsuits, and black magic. The Narasimha Kavacha is a famous protective hymn.

Lion head with a fierce mane and sharp fangs, human body with four to eight arms holding Vishnu's symbols plus weapons. The demon Hiranyakashipu is shown on his lap being disemboweled by Narasimha's claws. Young Prahlada kneels nearby in prayer.