John of AllFaith's
Questions and Answers

Questioner: malu

Subject: forms of gods

Question:

i would like to know why we have different forms of gods and godess? dont we believe in a single form of god?

---

John of AllFaith's reply

Namaskar Malu,

If one accepts the premise of the Ek Devata, that there is ultimately one Supreme Being or God, as I do, it might seem odd that there are so many different forms and representations. However it is quite logical I think.

As Hindus, we have countless tales that inspire and instruct us. For instance, when feeling fearful what better image of God's protection than the heroic image and stories of Lord Nrsimhadev, the half man half lion protector of the devout Pralada Maharaja? Likewise, the elephant-headed Ganapati with his rat companion is a great symbol when we consider his stories. The mighty Lord Jagannatha, the Immovable Lord of the Universe, the seductive Laxmi, the loyal Hanuman who served Lord Rama and Sita, the rasa lila of Sri Krsna and Radharani and the other gopis, and so on and on. We learn from the lives and pastimes of the gods and goddesses, knowing that they reveal the heart of nature of the One God Who is beyond all comprehension.

In every form of deity there are wonderful stories and traditions that inspire and move us and yet we know that the Truth is greater, deeper and beyond the images we bow before. If God is truly everywhere, then He is also within the murtis. So as we behold these images we are reminded of God's greatness. In the bodies of these images are symbols are lessons to be realized. This one holds a globe, this one an arrow, this one a sweat meat, another a book or a flower and so on. We study these images and from them learn deep secrets that lead on our way. In the presence of the murtis we behold an open ancient book made of stone, wood or so on.

The One God is utterly transcendent. This is why many people use no images. In my opinion, both views are legitimate. Those who use no images do so to honor God's transcendence. Those who use images do so to honor both God's imminence and transcendence. Just as Christians use the cross, crucifix, icons and stained glass windows to bring religious truths to mind, and Muslims use their beautiful calligraphy, so too the murtis teach and inspire us. It is the history and deeply rich traditions of the Vedic and post Vedic gods, goddesses, demigods etc. that contains the true glory and spiritual supremacy of the Sanatana Dharma (Hindu system).

If you have any other thoughts and questions feel free to write back,

Peace,

~John of AllFaith
Jagannatha Prakasa

---

Comment by John of AllFaith:

Hello again,

I answered your question fully and clearly and invited you to ask if you wished more information. Your rating is unfair.

Perhaps you did not ask the question you wish answered?

---

Questioners please note: The ratings at AllExperts are important because people determine who to question based upon them. When rating any "expert" please do so in terms of the options. Was the response clear, timely and polite and did the "expert" seem to know the material discussed. If you are not satisfied, please post a follow-up before rating.

Questioners please note: Because of such unfair ratings as this one I have turned off this options. I am interested in any feedback you may have so please write back if you have something to share.

Om Jai Jagannatha!	Sri Jagannatha.com Home Page
	Bhagavad Gita translated by Jagannatha Prakasa
	Gitabhasya of Jagannatha Prakasa