Place of Origin: Indian Subcontinent
Origin Date: c. 1500 BCE
Domain: Dawn, Light
Symbols: Golden Chariot, Red or Golden Horses
Attributes: Dispelling darkness, Awakening life
Epithets: Daughter of Heaven, Radiant Maiden
Equivalents: Greek: Eos, Roman: Aurora
Religion: Hinduism, and Vedism
Sacred Texts: Mentioned extensively in the Rigveda, composed around 1500 BCE.
Iconography: Ushas is depicted as a beautifully adorned young woman riding a golden chariot across the sky, often accompanied by red or golden horses.
Relations: Dyaus (father), Prithvi (mother), Ratri (sister), Surya (consort or son in some myths)
Description
Ushas is the Vedic goddess of dawn, celebrated in Hinduism for her role in dispelling darkness and bringing light to the world. She is often depicted as a radiant maiden riding a golden chariot drawn by red or golden horses. Ushas symbolizes renewal, hope, and the transition from night to day, embodying cosmic and moral order (Ṛta). Her presence is described in the Rigveda as awakening all life, driving away evil, and setting the world in motion. Ushas is considered the life force of all living beings and is revered for her beauty, grace, and auspicious nature.
Narratives
Hymns of the Rigveda: Ushas is praised in several hymns for her role in bringing light and awakening the world.
Source: Griffith, R. T. H. (1896). The Hymns of the Rigveda.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Ushas is honored through prayers and hymns at dawn, symbolizing the beginning of a new day. Rituals often include offerings and invocations to celebrate her arrival and seek her blessings for prosperity and clarity.