Why are there so many different gods and goddesses?

Why are there so many different gods and goddesses?

The presence of so many different gods is often puzzling to non-Hindus. Hindus suggest that one may view the divine force as a diamond with innumerable facets; each deity is one of these facets. One or another of the facets may have particular significance and appeal to an individual. By acknowledging the power of an individual facet, however, the believer does not deny the existence of others. On the contrary, Hindus affirm the existence of many aspects of the divine.

Posters from left to right: Vishnu and Lakshmi, Durga, and Rama with Lakshman (left), Sita (right), and Hanuman (kneeling).