Definition

Noun: 1. A deity in Hinduism: An Aditya is one of a group of celestial deities, the sons of the goddess Aditi. They are associated with light, the heavens, and the natural order (cosmic law or ṛta). Their number varies in different texts, traditionally between 7 and 12.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • In the Rigveda, Aditya is a title for the solar deity Surya.
  • The Adityas are revered as guardians of cosmic order.
  • Mitra and Varuna are among the most prominent Adityas.

Advanced Usage

• "The Adityas": This plural form refers to the entire group or pantheon of these deities.
  • The Adityas are invoked in Vedic hymns for protection and blessings.
• The term is often used in discussions of comparative mythology and early Vedic religion.

Variants and Related Words

• Aditi (Proper Noun): The mother of the Adityas, a goddess representing infinity, freedom, and the cosmos.
• Daitya (Noun): A contrasting class of beings, often demons or giants, who are the offspring of Aditi's sister, Diti.

Synonyms

• Devas (in the specific Vedic context): Gods, celestial beings.
• Celestial deities: Gods of the heavens.

Notes on Meaning

The primary and singular meaning of "Aditya" is as defined above—a member of a specific group of Vedic gods. In later Hindu tradition, "Aditya" became a common epithet for the sun god, Surya, who is considered the chief among them.

Noun

1. one of 7 to 12 sons of Aditi; Hindu gods of celestial light