Q. Why are there so many Gods in Hinduism?

A.  Contrary to prevailing misconceptions, Hindus all worship a one Supreme Being, though by different names. This is because the peoples of India with different languages and cultures have understood the one God in their own distinct way. But there are many devas who are praised in the religion. These devas are actually the life supporting powers. For example Sun, Moon, and Air without which the life cannot exist. God is called Devadhideva because It is the Thing on which even all these Celestial powers survive on. In Hinduism these elements which make the life possible are praised along with the Very Essential God. This gives the feeling that Hindus believe in many gods.

One of the unique understandings in Hinduism is that God is not far away, living in a remote heaven, but is inside each and every soul, in the heart and consciousness, waiting to be discovered. This knowing that God is always with us gives us hope and courage. Knowing the One Great God in this intimate and experiential way is the goal of Hindu spirituality.