________________
A.C. Clayton says that it is very difficult to arrange the Vedic deities distinctly. They may however be divided into three groups, due to their principal activity in the upper region of light, in the atmosphere and on the earth. Besides, there are many other divinities who are worshipped or feared, and a seven fold classification seems reasonable :
1. Gods of the upper world: Dyaus, Varuna, Surya, Savitri, Pushan, Vishnu, Ushas, Mitra, -Aryaman and Ashvins.
2. Gods of the air: Vata, Indra, Rudra, Parjanya, the Bhrigus and the Maruts.
3. Gods of the earth: Agni, Soma, Yama and Prthivi.
4. Abstract deities: Aditi, Prajapati, Shraddha, Vach, Brihaspati, Kama, Vishvadevas.
5. Inferior deities such as Tvashtri, the Ribhus and the Gandharvas.
6. Demon deities such as the Rakshasas.
7. Ancestral spirits or Pitri.?
Thus, we observe that the main feature of the Vedic religion is to depict nature as divine. Everything, which is impressive by its sublimeness, or is supposed to be capable of affecting us for good or evil, becomes a direct object of adoration. Mountains, rivers, springs, trees and plants are invoked in the form of deities.10 The animals which surround man, the cow which supplies him with nourishment, the dog which keeps watch over his dwelling, the bird which by its cry, reveals to him his nature, all receive his worship. Various sacrificial objects, the war chariot, offensive and defensive weapons; the plough; the furrow are also regarded as adorable.
Divinity in Vedas
Dyaus has the honour of being the only Indo-European god
Jain Education International
THE CONCEPT OF DIVINITY IN JAINISM
For Private & Personal Use Only
21
www.jainelibrary.org
