Hinduism Gods and Deities

Question 1

Shiva

Answer 1

One of the principal deities in Hinduism, known as “The Destroyer” within the Trimurti, which also includes Brahma (the Creator) and Vishnu (the Preserver). He is associated with destruction and transformation, as well as meditation and asceticism. He is worshiped in various forms, including Nataraj, the cosmic dancer, and is a central figure of Shaivism, a major tradition within Hinduism

Question 2

Shaivites

Answer 2

Devotees of Shiva, they are followers of the Shaivism tradition, which focuses on the worship of Shiva as the supreme deity. It is one of the oldest sects of Hinduism, with a strong emphasis on asceticism, meditation, and the worship of Shiva in various forms

Question 3

Nataraj

Answer 3

A depiction of Shiva as the cosmic dancer who performs the divine dance to destroy the universe, paving the way for its creation anew. He symbolizes the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction

Question 4

Linga/Lingam

Answer 4

An abstract or aniconic representation of Shiva, it is a symbol of divine generative energy. It is often found in Shiva temples and is worshipped by Shaivites as a symbol of Shiva’s power and presence

Question 5

Yoni

Answer 5

A symbol of the goddess Shakti and represents feminine generative power. Often depicted with the linga, it symbolizes the unity of male and female principles in creation

Question 6

Om Nahma Shivaya

Answer 6

“I bow to Shiva” or “I honor the divine within myself.” It is one of the most important and widely chanted mantras in Shaivism

Question 7

Parvati/Uma

Answer 7

The goddess wife of Shiva and mother of Ganesh and Kartikeya. She is the embodiment of love, fertility, and devotion and is considered a gentle and nurturing aspect of the goddess Shakti

Question 8

Vishnu

Answer 8

One of the principal deities in Hinduism, he is the “Preserver” in the Trimurti. He is known for his ten avatars, including Rama and Krishna, which he assumes to restore cosmic order or dharma. He is central to Vaishnavism, a major tradition of Hinduism, and is worshipped as the supreme being who maintains and protects the universe

Question 9

Vaishnavites

Answer 9

Devotees of Vishnu, they follow the Vaishnavism tradition, which focuses on the worship of Vishnu and his avatars, particularly Rama and Krishna. They believe in the supremacy of Vishnu and emphasize devotion (bhakti) as the path to salvation

Question 10

Rama

Answer 10

The seventh avatar of Vishnu, he is the hero of the Ramayana, where he is depicted as the ideal king, husband, and warrior. He is the epitome of dharma (righteousness) and is revered for his unwavering commitment to duty and virtue

Question 11

Krishna

Answer 11

The eighth avatar of Vishnu, he is one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism. He is known for his role as a divine lover, charioteer in the Bhagavad-Gita, and the protector of dharma. He is revered for his playful, compassionate, and loving nature

Question 12

Radha

Answer 12

The beloved consort of Krishna and is often regarded as the embodiment of love and devotion. Her relationship with Krishna symbolizes the soul’s intense longing for union with the divine

Question 13

Gopi Girls

Answer 13

They are the cowherd maidens of Vrindavan who were devoted to Krishna. Their love and devotion to Krishna are often depicted in stories where they engage in playful and loving interactions with him. They symbolize the soul’s pure and selfless love for God and represent the highest form of bhakti

Question 14

Shakti

Answer 14

The divine feminine energy and the personification of the goddess who is the dynamic force behind all creation

Question 15

Devi (Mahadevi)

Answer 15

“Great Goddess,” the supreme goddess in Hinduism, encompassing all other goddesses. She is worshiped in many forms, including Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati

Question 16

Durga

Answer 16

A warrior goddess who is the embodiment of divine feminine power. She is often depicted riding a lion or tiger, wielding weapons in her multiple arms, and defeating the buffalo demon Marishasura. She symbolizes the victory of good over evil

Question 17

Kali

Answer 17

The fierce and powerful aspect of the goddess is often depicted with a dark complexion, a garland of skulls, and a fierce expression. She is associated with destruction, transformation, and the power of time. She is worshipped as a protector and liberator from evil

Question 18

Lakshmi

Answer 18

The goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. She is the consort of Vishnu and is often depicted seated on a lotus, holding symbols of abundance and well-being. She is worshipped by those seeking prosperity, success, and material and spiritual wealth

Question 19

Hanuman

Answer 19

A divine monkey god, known for his immense strength, devotion, and loyalty. He is a central figure in Ramayana, where he plays a key role in aiding Rama in his quest to rescue Sita. He is worshipped as a protector and remover of obstacles

Question 20

Ganesh (Ganesha)

Answer 20

The elephant-headed god of wisdom, learning, and the remover of obstacles. He is the son of Shiva and Parvati and is one of the most widely worshipped deities in Hinduism