Hindu Gods And Mantras Flashcards
What is Brahman?
The ultimate, formless, all-encompassing reality; the source of everything.
What is Brahma?
The creator god, part of the Hindu trinity (Trimurti).
What is Vishnu?
The preserver god, responsible for maintaining the universe; incarnates as Krishna and Rama.
What is Shiva?
The destroyer god, responsible for transformation and change; also a symbol of asceticism and meditation.
Who is Lakshmi?
Goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune; consort of Vishnu. Incarnates as Sita (wife of Rama) and Rukmini (wife of Krishna).
Who is Parvati?
Goddess of love, fertility, and devotion; wife of Shiva and mother of Ganesha and Kartikeya.
What is Shakti?
The feminine divine energy, representing the dynamic, creative power of the universe; personified as goddesses like Parvati, Durga, and Kali.
Who is Ganesha?
Son of Shiva and Parvati; remover of obstacles and god of beginnings and wisdom.
What is Bhakti?
Devotion or love for the divine; a path of worship, service, and surrender to God.
What is Vairagya?
Detachment or dispassion from worldly desires, leading to spiritual liberation.
What is Shanti?
Peace—inner peace and harmony; often chanted as ‘Om Shanti.’
What is Prema?
Divine love; unconditional and selfless love, especially toward the divine or all beings.
What is Moksha?
Liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara); the ultimate spiritual goal in Hinduism.
What is Karma?
The law of cause and effect; actions (good or bad) determine future outcomes in this life or the next.
What is Dharma?
One’s duty or righteous path; moral and ethical obligations in life.
What is Ishta Devata?
Your personal chosen deity in Hinduism, the form of the divine you feel most connected to for worship and guidance.
Why is Shiva important in Hinduism?
Shiva is the god of transformation and emotional healing, breaking down the old to make way for the new.
What is the mantra associated with Shiva?
Om Namah Shivaya.
Why is Ganesha important in Hinduism?
Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and god of beginnings; he helps with fresh starts and clarity.
What is the mantra associated with Ganesha?
Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha.
Why is Lakshmi important in Hinduism?
Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and balance, aiding in financial and emotional stability.
What is the mantra associated with Lakshmi?
Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyei Namaha.
Why is Durga important in Hinduism?
Durga is the fierce protector and embodiment of divine feminine strength, offering courage and protection.
What is the mantra associated with Durga?
Om Dum Durgayei Namaha.
Why is Hanuman important in Hinduism?
Hanuman represents devotion, strength, and mental clarity, helping overcome obstacles with loyalty and power.
What is the mantra associated with Hanuman?
Om Hanumate Namaha.
What is the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra?
A mantra to Lord Shiva for healing, rejuvenation, and inner strength.