A common misconception in Sanatan Dharma is the belief in 33 crore (330 million) deities, each with unique names and forms. This notion, frequently mentioned in discussions and satire, is based on a misinterpretation of terms. The truth is far different, as the confusion stems from the dual meaning of the word koti. While scriptures provide clarity, the misinterpretation by some has led to the propagation of this myth.
The Truth: 33 Koti (Types) of Deities
Hindu scriptures actually refer to 33 koti deities, where koti means “types” or “categories,” not “crore” (millions). Over time, the word koti was misunderstood as “crore,” resulting in the belief that Hinduism acknowledges 33 crore gods and goddesses.
Who Are the 33 Koti Deities?
The 33 Koti deities are classified as follows:
1. Eight Vasus
2. Eleven Rudras
3. Twelve Adityas
4. Indra and Prajapati
In certain scriptures, the two Ashwini Kumars replace Indra and Prajapati among the 33 *koti* deities.
Names of the Eight Vasus
1. Apa
2. Dhruva
3. Soma
4. Dhara
5. Anila
6. Anala
7. Pratyusha
8. Prabhasa
Names of the Eleven Rudras
1. Manu
2. Manyu
3. Shiva
4. Mahat
5. Ritudhvaj
6. Ahanas
7. Umrateras
8. Kala
9. Vamadeva
10. Bhava
11. Dhrit-Dhvaja
Names of the Twelve Adityas
1. Anshuman
2. Aryaman
3. Indra
4. Tvashta
5. Dhatu
6. Parjanya
7. Pusha
8. Bhaga
9. Mitra
10. Varuna
11. Vivasvat
12. Vishnu
Tulsidas and the Concept of Universal Divinity
Goswami Tulsidas Ji beautifully encapsulated the essence of Hindu philosophy in the Ramcharitmanas:
“Siyaram may sab jag jani, karahu pranam jori jug pani.”
This translates to: “Know the entire world to be pervaded by Bhagwan Shri Ram. Fold your hands in reverence and bow to all.”
This verse reinforces the belief that Lord Shri Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, resides in every being and element of the universe. This omnipresence underscores why all forms of life and nature are considered divine in Hinduism.
Worship in the Sanatan Dharma
Hindu traditions emphasize reverence for all aspects of creation:
– Elements like fire, trees, earth, water, and air are worshiped.
– During Shraddha Paksha, crows are offered food as part of ancestral rituals.
– On Ekadashi, ants are revered.
– The owl, the vehicle of Lakshmi mata, is also worshiped.
– Bhagwan Ganesha is revered in the form of an elephant, and Lord Vishnu’s Varaha incarnation signifies respect for a boar.
The Divine Connection in All Beings
The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita explains that Bhagwan Shri Hari resides in all living beings. This belief aligns with the idea of 33 crore divine forms, as all life is viewed as an extension of the divine.
Reconciling the Beliefs
The idea of 33 koti deities as “types” is accurate, while the belief in 33 crore deities can be understood metaphorically. Tulsidas Ji’s verse highlights the omnipresence of divinity, affirming that every being is a manifestation of the divine essence in Hindu philosophy.
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