a. Is God Male or Female?

Hinduism’s core principle is the recognition of the Brahman–the primary source of energy and creation, all-pervasive and eternal.  We are a result and a part of this Brahman–often also referred to as the “Truth”.  Brahman at its core is conceptually genderless. 

In non-Indic and Western parlance, Brahman’s loose translation and interpretation as “God” raises the natural question of it being male or female, which for Hindus is not an inquiry.  The recognition of the divinity of the eternal truth (Brahman) has many conduits, which may have a gendered identity.  Most often, these are the deities that represent aspects of the Brahman and have both male and female identities. 

Gender is related to a physical body. Brahman is an all-pervading cosmic life force that is genderless and formless.  Brahman in a male body and Brahman in a female body–that is how Hindus see the Brahman.  Brahman (God) is a genderless cosmic life force.

Other reading material: 

Relevant videos: Swami Nikhil Anand 

Contributor: Rajeev Singh