Why do Hindus worship many different gods while believing that there is one supreme being?
Hinduism is a complex and diverse religion, and its understanding of the divine is multi-dimensional. While Hinduism does believe in the existence of a single, supreme reality called Brahman, the worship of multiple gods is rooted in the concept of manifestation or forms of this ultimate reality.
To understand why Hindus worship many gods while believing in one supreme being, it is essential to explore two fundamental Hindu concepts: Brahman and Deities.
1. Brahman: Brahman is the ultimate cosmic reality in Hinduism. It is formless, transcendent, infinite, and beyond comprehension. It is considered the source and sustainer of the universe, the unchanging reality behind all phenomena. However, due to its abstract nature, Brahman can be challenging for individuals to relate to directly.
2. Deities: Hinduism recognizes a vast pantheon of gods and goddesses known as deities. These deities are worshiped and revered as the manifestations or embodiments of different aspects of the supreme Brahman. Each deity represents specific qualities, powers, and aspects of the divine reality. For example, Lord Brahma represents creation, Lord Vishnu represents preservation, and Lord Shiva represents destruction and transformation. There are also numerous goddesses who embody different aspects of the divine feminine energy.
Hindus worship these deities to establish a personal and more accessible connection with the divine. The deities act as intermediaries or channels for the devotees to reach and understand the ultimate reality. By worshiping different gods, Hindus perceive and establish a connection with the various manifestations of Brahman, which allows for a deeper understanding and reverence for the divine complexity.
Additionally, the choice of which deities to worship is often influenced by personal preference, family traditions, regional customs, or the nature of the individual's needs or desires. Different deities are associated with specific qualities, such as wisdom, prosperity, protection, or knowledge. By worshiping a particular deity, Hindus seek their blessings and guidance in the respective areas of life.
In summary, the worship of multiple gods in Hinduism is rooted in the belief that each deity represents a particular aspect or manifestation of the supreme reality, Brahman. By worshiping different deities, Hindus establish a personal connection with the divine and seek blessings according to their needs and aspirations.