Symbols of the gods

In order to allow worshipers to identify the deity depicted in a sculpture or painting, artists developed conventions for portraying each deity. These conventions usually relate to the symbols the deity holds or the standard ways gods are depicted in favorite stories. One deity may have several symbols and tales associated with it, but few images include all of these symbols and references in one piece. Usually a deity can be identified if two or more of its associated symbols are present. Remember that one symbol may represent more than one deity. It is the combination of symbols that identifies specific deities.

Objective

At the end of this activity students will be able to

• identify and explain the meaning of symbols associated with some Hindu deities

Activity

• Explore this Website looking for representations of the deities and their symbols. Find out what the symbols signify and to identify the god portrayed. Research different Hindu deities and identify the symbols associated with them.

Note to Teachers:

The following page is an activity sheet for you to print out and photocopy for use during your visit to the museum or as a research project in the classroom. It requires students to identify some of the symbols associated with particular Hindu gods.

Continued...

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