The question of deity

Section: Concepts of Deity

Hinduism is a complex religion with varied beliefs, one of which is theism, the belief in a God or gods.
Predominantly, it’s a pluralistic religion where multiple deities are worshipped. These deities are often viewed as different aspects of the Ultimate Brahman.
The Trimurti represents the three aspects of God: Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver or protector), and Shiva (the destroyer).
Some of Hinduism’s sects are monotheistic, such as Vaishnavism (focus on Vishnu) and Shaivism (focus on Shiva).

Section: Role and Characteristics of Deities

Deities in Hinduism have unique characteristics and roles.
For example, Ganesha, who has an elephant head, is the remover of obstacles.
Deities are often depicted in form (an iconic form called Murti) that symbolizes their attributes.
Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and is associated with Vishnu.
These symbolic characteristics make it easier for people to understand and relate to their deities.

Section: Worship of Deities

The purpose of deity worship varies, including to seek blessings, fulfil desires, attain liberation, or simply to express devotion.
Worship can be performed at the temples or in home shrines known as Puja. It can include offering of flowers, food, incense, and arti (light).
Bhakti, or devotion, is a path to God-realisation used by many Hindus.

Section: Concept of Avatar

Another unique feature of Hinduism is the concept of Avatar, where gods descend on earth in various forms to uphold righteousness and destroy evil.
Notable avatars are Krishna and Rama, who are incarnations of Vishnu.

Section: Concepts of Moksha and Atman

Hinduism stresses the existence of Atman, the individual soul.
The ultimate goal of life as per Hindu philosophy is Moksha, the liberation of Atman from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. It is considered merging with the ultimate reality, Brahman.

Section: Philosophical Hinduism

Philosophical Hinduism, as found in the Upanishads, focuses on the Brahman, the ultimate reality or the supreme cosmic power.
The Bhagavad Gita, a key religious text, has philosophical discussions involving duty (Dharma), action (Karma), devotion (Bhakti), and spiritual wisdom (Jnana).