Yama is the ‘God of Death’ or the ‘Lord of the Pitrs’. He is also called Yamaraja related to the underworld and the south direction. The deity is called as Dharmaraja as well as the ‘Guardian of Directions’ of the south or the Lokpala in Hinduism. Yama means ‘twin’ in Sanskrit. It is believed that the dead are judged by Yama. He has authority over Hell as well as the cycle of rebirth.
Yama is affiliated to other deities Dharma Raje and Dikpala. He Buffalo is his mount and he uses the Mace as weapon. Yama’s parents were Saranyu (Sandhya) mother and Surya (father). He had a number of siblings including Tapati (sisters), Ashvins, Yami (older sister), Sugriva, Bhadra, Karna (brothers), Shraddhadeva Manu and Shani(step brother). Names of Yama’s three children are Yudhishtira, Katila and Shobhavati. Yama belongs to Rigvedic Hindu deities of the early stratum.
Yama is the Surya (the Sun God) as per the Vishnu Purana which Sandhya is Lord Vishvakarma’s daughter. As per the Vedas, the first mortal being who died was Yama. He became ‘ruler of the departed’ by virture of rank. Buddhist mythology also has mention of Yama’s name. In Hinduism Yama is the son of Surya. In Tibet Yama is worshipped as ‘Guardian of spiritual practice’ and as ‘Lord of Death’.
In the Rigvedas 10th book there are 3 hymns dedicated to Yama. He is depicted with protruding fangs, a fearful expression, four arms, wears blue, yellow or red clothing, has a complexion of storm clouds, rides a water-buffalo, brandishes a sword or mace, is surrounded by a garland of flames and holds a noose. He takes the life of people who are on the verge of dying by wielding the noose. In India, a number of temples are dedicated in his name.
