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Q&A with Brahm Bodhi

In Hinduism, is God one or many?

In Hinduism, is God one or many?
AAnswer

In Hindu Dharma, God is One.

“Ishvara” means That which is omnipotent (sarva-shaktimaan). Two omnipotent beings cannot exist, because it is not logically possible: if there were two omnipotent powers, each would limit the other. Therefore, like the other major religions, Hindu Dharma also accepts that God is One. He is called Brahman — or Para-Brahman.

That one Para-Brahman Parameshwara reveals Himself in many forms at the time of creation.

This raises a sensitive and beautiful question — if God is one, why does He have so many forms? Is He really formless, or with form?