The 12 Adityas in Hindu Mythology and Their Roles

In Hindu mythology, the term 'Aditya' refers to the sons born to Rishi Kashyap and his wife Aditi. These deities play significant roles in the Vedic pantheon, often associated with various aspects of the natural world and cosmic functions. The Adityas are twelve in number and are considered the sons of Aditi, representing different aspects of Surya, the Sun god. Let's delve into the details of each Aditya and their significant roles.

Who Are the Adityas?

The Adityas are a crucial part of Hindu mythology, particularly in the Puranas. The sons born to Rishi Kashyap and his wife Aditi are called the Adityas. The term Adityo is also used for the sun, signifying its importance. The list of the twelve Adityas is as follows:

Vivasvan Aryaman Tvastr Savitr Bhaga Dhata Varuna Mitra Trivikrama (Lord Vamana) Indra Vishnu (in the Vamana avatar) Amsa (also known as Amshu) Pushan

The Roles of the Adityas

The Adityas are not just representations of the sun but are also attributed with a wide range of cosmic and terrestrial functions. Each Aditya is associated with a particular month and plays a unique role:

Dhata

Form: Surya creates living beings
Ruling Month: Chaitra (March to April)

Aryaman

Form: The wind
Ruling Month: Vaishakha (April to May)

Mitra

Form: The moon and oceans
Ruling Month: Jyestha (May to June)

Varuna

Form: Rain
Ruling Month: Ashadha (June to July)

Indra

Form: Destroyer of enemies of the gods
Ruling Month: Shravan (July to August)

Vivasvan

Form: Fire
Ruling Month: Bhadrapada (August to September)

Tvastrap

Form: Trees and herbs
Ruling Month: Ashvin (September to October)

Vishnu (in the Vamana avatar)

Form: Destroyer of evil
Ruling Month: Kartika (October to November)

Amsa (also known as Amshu)

Form: Wind
Ruling Month: Margashirsha (November to December)

Bhaga

Form: Body of all living beings
Ruling Month: Pushya (December to January)

Pushan

Form: Growth of grains
Ruling Month: Magha (January to February)

Parjanya

Form: Rain
Ruling Month: Phalguna (February to March)

The Significance of the Adityas in Hindu Pantheon

The Adityas are considered the sons of Aditi and are included in the solar gods. Each Aditya represents a different aspect of the sun and the natural world. They play a crucial role in managing various cosmic functions such as creating life, ruling over the wind, oceans, moon, rain, and death.

Lord Vishnu, as the Supreme Soul of all living beings, created the Adityas and has entrusted them with specific responsibilities. They are described as the different forms of Surya, the Sun god. The Adityas are seen as the creators of life, destroyers of evil, and guardians of both this world and the next.

The Adityas are also integral to the Vedic rituals and ceremonial practices, as the sun is considered the wellspring of energy and life. This is evident in the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna emphasizes the importance of the sun in the grants of all beings.

The Chariot of the Sun God

The sun god travels with his associates, who are said to be different forms of divine beings. Each month is ruled by a different set of these associates, providing a framework for cosmic order and harmony. The chariot of the sun god is adorned with 60,000 Brahmana sages known as the Valakhilyas, who offer prayers with Vedic mantras.

The various deities and their associates work together to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the universe. The Apsaras dance in praise of the sun god, while the Gandharvas sing hymns from the Sama, Rig, and Yajur Vedas. The Nagas, Yaksas, and Raksasas contribute to the upkeep of the solar chariot, ensuring its smooth functioning and the continuous flow of energy and light.

Conclusion

The Adityas are a fascinating aspect of Hindu mythology, representing the sun and its influences on the natural world. Their roles, associated with different aspects of the universe, highlight the importance of the sun in both spiritual and practical aspects of life. The Adityas, collectively and individually, play a crucial role in maintaining the cosmic balance and ensuring the well-being of the universe.