Hindu Mythology: A Guide to the Gods and Goddesses of India

By Sebastian Berg

Hindu mythology is vast and features many gods and goddesses, most of whom have multiple variations of their names and associations. According to the Hindu religion, these deities were once human or superhuman beings. Some of them are still worshipped today as the gods and goddesses of the Hindu religion. In addition, many Hindus worship certain animals or objects that represent their deities.
 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Creek Ridge Publishing
• Release date: Nov 3, 2021
• ISBN: 9798201528980

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Hindu Mythology

A Guide to the Gods and Goddesses of India

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Table of Contents

Introduction

The Origins of Hinduism

About Hindu Deities

Brahman - The Supreme Reality

Chapter 1: Brahma - Manifestations of the Supreme Reality

Mythological Depiction

Brahma’s Symbols

Mythological Stories and Teachings

The Role of Brahma in Hindu Culture

Chapter 2: Vishnu - The Preserver

Powers and Abilities of Vishnu

Mythological Depiction of Vishnu

Vishnu’s Role in Hindu Mythology

Vishnu’s Ten Avatars

Chapter 3: Shiva - The God of Destruction

Powers and Abilities

Shiva’s Attributes

Shiva’s Stories

Chapter 4: Ganesha - The God with the Elephant Head

Ganesha’s Powers

Attributes

Tales of Ganesha’s Greatness

Chapter 5: Hanuman - The Monkey God

Hanuman’s Powers and Abilities

Hanuman’s Role in Hindu Mythology

The Modern Era

Chapter 6: Laxmi - The Goddess of Fortune

Laxmi’s Origins

Laxmi’s Symbolic Aspects

Laxmi’s Attributes

Laxmi’s Role in Hinduism

Chapter 7: Agni - The God of Fire

Agni’s Role in Hinduism

The Origins of Agni

Agni’s Role in Vedic Rituals

Chapter 8: Saraswati - The Goddess of Learning

Saraswati’s Symbolism

In the Vedas

Saraswati in Art and Literature

Saraswati in Yoga

Saraswati’s Role in Hindu Life

Chapter 9: Durga - The Goddess of Power

Durga’s Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Durga’s Role in Hindu Life

Durga’s Forms and Attributes

Myths and Stories Involving Durga

Chapter 10: Indra - The Mighty Storm

Indra’s Symbolism

Indra’s Relationship with the Other Gods

Conclusion

References

Introduction

Hindu mythology is vast and features many gods and goddesses, most of whom have multiple variations of their names and associations. According to the Hindu religion, these deities were once human or superhuman beings. Some of them are still worshipped today as the gods and goddesses of the Hindu religion. In addition, many Hindus worship certain animals or objects that represent their deities.

The Origins of Hinduism

Hindu mythology first appeared during the Vedic Period, which was between 2300 B.C. and 1500 B.C. The essence of Hinduism is described through the Vedic literature that comprises the Vedas, the Brahmanas, and the Upanishads. Hindu mythology covers a vast amount of time and space, beginning approximately 3500 B.C., and continuing well into the 21st century A.D. The Hindu religion does not have a Holy Book, like the Bible or the Koran which is seen as having been inspired by a divine