❓ Why do many people think Hinduism has millions of gods when it’s actually monotheistic?

This common misconception arises from a misunderstanding of the Hindu concept of saguna brahman (divine with attributes) versus nirguna brahman (divine without attributes). The Upanishads clearly state there is only one supreme reality (Ekam Sat), but it manifests in many forms.

According to the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (1.4.10), the various deities are different aspects or cosmic functions of the one supreme consciousness. The Bhagavad Gita (10.41) further explains: 'Whatever being shows power, prosperity or strength, know that to be a manifestation of a spark of My splendor.'

Modern scholars compare this to how water can exist as liquid, ice, and vapor - different forms but the same essence. The multiple deities represent different aspects of natural and cosmic forces, making abstract spiritual concepts more relatable for worship and meditation.