explain how hindus can worship many different gods (polytheism) while still believing there is one supreme being (monotheism)
Hinduism is a complex and diverse religion with various interpretations and beliefs. One of the unique aspects of Hinduism is its ability to accommodate multiple perspectives and beliefs, including both polytheistic and monotheistic understandings.
In Hinduism, there is a concept called Brahman, which represents the ultimate reality, ultimate truth, or the Absolute. Brahman is often regarded as a formless, all-pervading, and supreme power. It is considered to be the source and essence of everything in the universe. This idea of the Supreme Being aligns with the notion of monotheism.
However, Hinduism also recognizes and reveres numerous deities, ranging from major gods and goddesses such as Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and many more, to countless local and regional deities. These deities are often seen as manifestations or representations of different aspects of the divine, emanating from the one Brahman.
Hindus generally believe that all of these deities are connected to the Supreme Being and are ultimately different expressions of the same divine reality. Just as a person may perform different roles, wear different hats, or have various facets, Hindus view the deities as different manifestations or forms of the underlying divine energy.
This concept is frequently exemplified through the Trimurti, the Hindu trinity of three major deities: Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the preserver; and Shiva, the destroyer. Despite being distinct deities with unique characteristics, they are often understood as different aspects of the one Supreme Being.
Hindus are free to choose which deities they wish to worship or focus on, based on their personal inclinations, needs, or regional traditions. This allows for a diverse range of practices and rituals that can vary from person to person, family to family, or community to community. Some devotees have particular devotion towards specific deities while recognizing the overarching unity of the divine.
In essence, Hinduism embraces a wide spectrum of beliefs, allowing both polytheistic and monotheistic perspectives to coexist harmoniously. While worshipping many gods, Hindus still believe in a single, all-encompassing Supreme Being from which all deities and the entire universe emerge.