यम
Yama
God of Death
Sacred Stories
Divine tales and sacred legends
First Mortal to Die
Yama was the first mortal being who discovered the path to the celestial realm. Due to his righteousness and wisdom, he was appointed as the god of death and dharma, tasked with judging souls and maintaining cosmic justice.
Testing Yudhishthira
Yama tested Yudhishthira's wisdom and righteousness through the famous Yaksha Prashna. Disguised as a Yaksha, he asked profound questions, and only after Yudhishthira answered correctly did Yama reveal himself and revive the Pandava brothers.
Savitri's Devotion
When Yama came to claim Satyavan's soul, his devoted wife Savitri followed them. Through her wisdom and unwavering devotion, she convinced Yama to grant her boons, ultimately bringing her husband back to life.
Timeline of Events
First Death
Became the first mortal to find path to afterlife
Yaksha Prashna
Tested Yudhishthira's wisdom and dharma
Savitri's Victory
Granted life back to Satyavan through Savitri's devotion
Sacred Iconography
Understanding the divine symbols and their meanings
Buffalo Vehicle
Riding a black buffalo
Death and dharma, controls life cycle, dark mount for lord of death
Noose
Rope to capture souls
Captures departed souls, binds to karmic consequences
Mace
Rod or staff of punishment
Dispenser of justice, karmic retribution, dharma enforcement
Dark Complexion
Deep dark or blue-black color
Lord of death, darkness after life, mystery of afterlife
Sacred Temples
Holy places of worship and pilgrimage
Yamuna River
Northern India
Named after Yama's sister Yamuna
Thiruvidaimarudur
Tamil Nadu
Temple where Yama worshipped Shiva
Festivals & Celebrations
Yama Dwitiya (Bhai Dooj)
Kartik Shukla Dwitiya
Sisters pray for brothers' longevity, commemorates Yama-Yamuna bond
Learn MoreSacred Mantras
Powerful chants to invoke divine blessings
ॐ यमाय नमः
Om Yamaaya Namah
"Salutations to Lord Yama"
Benefits: Longevity, righteous life, fearlessness
मृत्युना पाशदण्डाभ्यां कालेन च महात्मना। यमेन धर्मराजेन रक्षितोऽस्मि सदाहम्॥
Mrityunaa Paashadandaabhyaam Kaalena Cha Mahaatmanaa, Yamena Dharmarajena Rakshito'smi Sadaaham
"I am always protected by Yama, the great soul with noose and staff, lord of time and dharma"
Benefits: Protection from untimely death, righteous living, karmic balance
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