Yama (King of the Dead)
Yama is a deity described in the Rigveda as a divine figure associated with the realm of the departed ancestors and the company of the gods. He is portrayed as a father-like custodian who tends to the souls of forefathers in a celestial abode.
Dwelling and Abode
Yama resides in a sacred tree described as "clothed with goodly leaves," where he partakes of drink alongside the gods. In this setting, he is depicted as "the Father, Master of the house," who "tendeth with love our ancient Sires" (RV 10.135.1). His seat is explicitly identified as a divine location: "Here is the seat where Yama dwells, that which is called the Home of Gods" (RV 10.135.7).
Role as Cherisher of the Ancestors
Yama is the guardian of the men of old, cherishing those who have passed before. The hymn conveys an ambivalent reverence toward him, with the speaker noting, "I looked reluctantly on him who cherishes those men of old, on him who treads that evil path, and then I yearned for this again" (RV 10.135.2). This passage suggests Yama's dominion lies along a path both feared and ultimately desired.
The Mental Chariot
A distinctive motif associated with Yama's domain is a mysterious vehicle fashioned by thought rather than by craft. It is described as a "new and wheel-less car... fashioned mentally, one-poled but turning every way" (RV 10.135.3). Although the rider mounts it without seeing, the chariot is said to have rolled forth "from the Sages," and "the Sâman followed close, hence, laid together on a ship" (RV 10.135.4). The text poses unanswered questions about its origin: "Who was the father of the child? Who made the chariot roll away?" (RV 10.135.5).
Funeral Rites
Yama's hymn references the ritual of the funeral offering. Upon the placement of the funeral gift, "straightway the point of flame appeared. A depth extended in the front: a passage out was made behind" (RV 10.135.6). This imagery links Yama with the transition of the deceased through fire and passage.
Worship
In Yama's abode, music and praise are continually offered: "here minstrels blow the flute for him, here he is glorified with songs" (RV 10.135.7), affirming his exalted standing among the gods.
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