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Yama (Sanskrit : यमः) also called as Dharmaraja is the much feared ruler of Kala and Dharma (righteousness). According to Sanatana Dharma principles, after death every deed done by a person when alive are taken into account and the elevation of soul is then decided. A Jiva's path of travel to higher realms namely Devayana and Pitruyana are dependent on the Karma (deeds) and the knowledge attained by a Jiva or soul, the records of which are maintained by Yama.

Yama (Sanskrit : यमः) also called as Dharmaraja is the much feared ruler of Kala and Dharma (righteousness). According to Sanatana Dharma principles, after death every deed done by a person when alive are taken into account and the elevation of soul is then decided. A Jiva's path of travel to higher realms namely Devayana and Pitruyana are dependent on the Karma (deeds) and the knowledge attained by a Jiva or soul, the records of which are maintained by Yama.

*'''यमगाथ || Yamagaatha''' : The legend about Yama and Markandeya, a youth of sixteen years age, who prays to Shiva for longevity is well known. When Yama, in arrogance throws his noose around Markandeya who was holding the Shivalinga, Shiva appears and burns Yama to ashes, protecting Markandeya. Consequently, Yama is absent to govern the process of death. Another such age is the Kritayuga when Yama was not there and the earth was overcrowded with living beings. The legend about Savitri, a mahapativrata, following Yamadeva to bring back her husband Satyavaan's life is very well known. Yama and Nachiketa legend reveals that Yama was knowledgeable about brahmavidya and he imparts it to Nachiketa. (Chandogya Upanishad).  

*'''यमगाथ || Yamagaatha''' : The legend about Yama and Markandeya, a youth of sixteen years age, who prays to Shiva for longevity is well known. When Yama, in arrogance throws his noose around Markandeya who was holding the Shivalinga, Shiva appears and burns Yama to ashes, protecting Markandeya. Consequently, Yama is absent to govern the process of death. Another such age is the Kritayuga when Yama was not there and the earth was overcrowded with living beings. The legend about Savitri, a mahapativrata, following Yamadeva to bring back her husband Satyavaan's life is very well known. Yama and Nachiketa legend reveals that Yama was knowledgeable about brahmavidya and he imparts it to Nachiketa. (Chandogya Upanishad).  

== व्युत्पत्तिः|| Etymology ==

== व्युत्पत्तिः|| Etymology ==

'''[[Amarakosha]]''' defines the following about Yama in स्वर्गवर्गः (Prathama kanda Slokas 58 - 59)<ref>[http://www.sanskritebooks.org/2009/07/amara-kosa-the-sanskrit-thesaurus-with-notes-index/ Amarakosha] (Page no 30)</ref>

'''Amarakosha''' defines the following about Yama in स्वर्गवर्गः (Prathama kanda Slokas 58 - 59)<ref>[http://www.sanskritebooks.org/2009/07/amara-kosa-the-sanskrit-thesaurus-with-notes-index/ Amarakosha] (Page no 30)</ref><blockquote>धर्मराजः पितृपतिः समवर्ती परेतराट् | कृतान्तो यमुनाभ्राता शमनो यमराड् यमः || (Amara 1. स्वर्ग. 58)</blockquote><blockquote>कालो दण्डधरः श्राध्ददेवो वैवस्वतोन्तकः | (Amara 1. स्वर्ग. 59)</blockquote><blockquote>''dharmarājaḥ pitr̥patiḥ samavartī paretarāṭ | kr̥tānto yamunābhrātā śamano yamarāḍ yamaḥ || (Amara 1. svarga. 58)''</blockquote><blockquote>''kālo daṇḍadharaḥ śrādhdadevo vaivasvatontakaḥ | (Amara 1. svarga. 59)''</blockquote>Yama like other deities has many names, a few are Dharmaraja, Pitrupati, Samavarthi, Paretaraat, Kritaanto, Yamunabhraata, Shamana, Kaala, Dandadhara, Vaivasvata, Antaka among others.  

 

धर्मराजः पितृपतिः समवर्ती परेतराट् | कृतान्तो यमुनाभ्राता शमनो यमराड् यमः || (Amara 1. स्वर्ग. 58)

 

कालो दण्डधरः श्राध्ददेवो वैवस्वतोन्तकः | (Amara 1. स्वर्ग. 59)

 

Yama like other deities has many names, a few are Dharmaraja, Pitrupati, Samavarthi, Paretaraat, Kritaanto, Yamunabhraata, Shamana, Kaala, Dandadhara, Vaivasvata, Antaka among others.  

Yama’s is described by Yaska in the Nirukta (10.2-20)<ref>[http://vedicreserve.mum.edu/nirukta/nirukta.pdf Nirukta] </ref> as follows, <blockquote>यच्छति उप रमयति जिवितम् सर्वम् भुत ग्रमन् इति यमह || yacchati upa ramayati jivitam sarvam bhuta graman iti yamaha || </blockquote>Because Yama causes death to all the beings he is called as Antaka.  Yama’s main responsibility is to give different destinations according to the vices and virtues of a jiva, therefore he is called as Antaka .

Yama’s is described by Yaska in the Nirukta (10.2-20)<ref>[http://vedicreserve.mum.edu/nirukta/nirukta.pdf Nirukta] </ref> as follows, <blockquote>यच्छति उप रमयति जिवितम् सर्वम् भुत ग्रमन् इति यमह || yacchati upa ramayati jivitam sarvam bhuta graman iti yamaha || </blockquote>Because Yama causes death to all the beings he is called as Antaka.  Yama’s main responsibility is to give different destinations according to the vices and virtues of a jiva, therefore he is called as Antaka .

Yama's chief role is that of time calculation and administration of impartial justice to all souls after their lifespan is completed on earth. Thus, he is much feared as the Mrityudeva (Devata for Death).   

Yama's chief role is that of time calculation and administration of impartial justice to all souls after their lifespan is completed on earth. Thus, he is much feared as the Mrityudeva (Devata for Death).   

=== धर्मराजः || Dharmaraja ===

=== धर्मराजः || Dharmaraja ===

Yama though kept at a distance as Mrityudevata, his role is highly acclaimed as the Dharmadevata. Yama is known for his meticulous book keeping and impartiality towards all beings and hence called as समवर्ती || Samavarthi. With this unyielding impartial nature he takes into account the minutest karmas of every being with the help of Chitragupta and accordingly assesses their path to further higher realms ([[Devayana and Pitrayana (देवयान मार्ग और पित्रयान मार्ग)|Devayana and Pitriyana]]). It is said that a soul after liberation from the mortal body is received by the agents of Yama and taken to Yamapuri. From there the holy souls are directed to Vaikuntha (the abode of Vishnu) or to the realms of Parabrahma and the sinful souls are sent to [[Naraka]] (Hell) to complete their time as per the nature and seriousness of their sins. Garuda Purana details the 28 different kinds of Narakas based on the sins committed.   

Yama though kept at a distance as Mrityudevata, his role is highly acclaimed as the Dharmadevata. Yama is known for his meticulous book keeping and impartiality towards all beings and hence called as समवर्ती || Samavarthi. With this unyielding impartial nature he takes into account the minutest karmas of every being with the help of Chitragupta and accordingly assesses their path to further higher realms ([[Devayana Marga and Pitruyana Marga (देवयानमार्गः पितृयानमार्गः च।)|Devayana and Pitriyana]]). It is said that a soul after liberation from the mortal body is received by the agents of Yama and taken to Yamapuri. From there the holy souls are directed to Vaikuntha (the abode of Vishnu) or to the realms of Parabrahma and the sinful souls are sent to Naraka (Hell) to complete their time as per the nature and seriousness of their sins. Garuda Purana details the 28 different kinds of Narakas based on the sins committed.   

Yama discloses the secrets of Dharma as given in Mahabharata Anushasana Parva (Adhyaya 130).<ref name=":0">[http://www.rsvidyapeetha.ac.in/mahabharatha/menu.html Shri Mahabharatam] </ref>

Yama discloses the secrets of Dharma as given in Mahabharata Anushasana Parva (Adhyaya 130).<ref name=":0">[http://www.rsvidyapeetha.ac.in/mahabharatha/menu.html Shri Mahabharatam] </ref>

=== पितृपतिः || Pitrupati ===

=== पितृपतिः || Pitrupati ===

Yama is the Adhipati or king of Pitruloka.  This loka is in the middle of the three worlds, bordered by Bhuloka on the southern side and Atalaloka on the upper end. Agnisvattas and other pitrs stay there in meditative trance for securing prosperity to those who come to pitruloka.  The efficacy of performing shraddha karmas, giving tila (gingelly seeds), jala (water), and anna (food) to Brahmana's and other srauta dharmas are overseen by Yama as mentioned in Mahabharata Anushasana Parva (Adhyaya 68)<ref name=":0" /> under the heading तिलजलदीपरत्नादीनां दानमाहात्म्यप्रसङ्गे धर्मराजब्राह्मणयोः संवादः   

Yama is the Adhipati or king of Pitruloka.  This loka is in the middle of the three worlds, bordered by Bhuloka on the southern side and Atalaloka on the upper end. Agnisvattas and other pitrs stay there in meditative trance for securing prosperity to those who come to pitruloka.  The efficacy of performing shraddha karmas, giving tila (gingelly seeds), jala (water), and anna (food) to Brahmana's and other srauta dharmas are overseen by Yama as mentioned in Mahabharata Anushasana Parva (Adhyaya 68)<ref name=":0" /> under the heading तिलजलदीपरत्नादीनां दानमाहात्म्यप्रसङ्गे धर्मराजब्राह्मणयोः संवादः   

== Yama Devataswaroopam ==

== Yama Devataswaroopa ==

=== Birth and Family ===

=== Birth and Family ===

* Yama descended from Mahavishnu in the following order according to Puranic Encyclopedia<ref name=":2">Mani, V. (1975). ''[https://archive.org/details/puranicencyclopa00maniuoft Puranic encyclopaedia : A comprehensive dictionary with special reference to the epic and Puranic literature.]'' Delhi:Motilal Banasidass.</ref>:  

* Yama descended from Mahavishnu in the following order according to Puranic Encyclopedia<ref name=":2">Mani, V. (1975). ''[https://archive.org/details/puranicencyclopa00maniuoft Puranic encyclopaedia : A comprehensive dictionary with special reference to the epic and Puranic literature.]'' Delhi:Motilal Banasidass.</ref>: <blockquote>'''''Vishnu - Brahma - Marichi - Kasyapa - Surya - Yama'''''</blockquote>

<blockquote>'''''Vishnu - Brahma - Marichi - Kasyapa - Surya - Yama'''''</blockquote>

* The birth of Yama is described in Vishnu Purana (Part 3, Chap 2)<ref>[http://www.astrojyoti.com/pdfs/DevanagariFiles/VishnuPurana.pdf Vishnu Purana] Page Number 188</ref>. Yama is the son of Surya and Samjna.  Dhoomornyaa is the name of Yama's wife. <blockquote>यथा चन्द्रश्च रोहिण्यामुर्मिलायां[ण्यां '''धूमोर्णया''' '''यथा यमः'''। वरुणश्च यथा गौर्यां यथा चर्ध्यां[र्द्ध्यां] धनेश्वरः॥ 5-117-9 (Mahabharata. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 117, Verse 9).</blockquote><blockquote>''yathā candraśca rohiṇyāmurmilāyāṁ[ṇyāṁ dhūmorṇayā yathā yamaḥ। varuṇaśca yathā gauryāṁ yathā cardhyāṁ[rddhyāṁ] dhaneśvaraḥ॥''</blockquote>

* The birth of Yama is described in Vishnu Purana (Part 3, Chap 2)<ref>[http://www.astrojyoti.com/pdfs/DevanagariFiles/VishnuPurana.pdf Vishnu Purana] Page Number 188</ref>. Yama is the son of Surya and Samjna.  Dhoomornyaa is the name of Yama's wife.  

<blockquote>यथा चन्द्रश्च रोहिण्यामुर्मिलायां[ण्यां '''धूमोर्णया''' '''यथा यमः'''। वरुणश्च यथा गौर्यां यथा चर्ध्यां[र्द्ध्यां] धनेश्वरः॥ 5-117-9 (Mahabharata. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 117, Verse 9).</blockquote>

* Yama is the brother of Manu, Yami, Sanaischara, Tapati and Manu (another one of same name) and Ashvinikumaras, Revanta and Bhaya.

* Yama is the brother of Manu, Yami, Sanaischara, Tapati and Manu (another one of same name) and Ashvinikumaras, Revanta and Bhaya.

== Yama in Vedas And Upanishads ==

== Yama in Vedas And Upanishads ==

 Yama, as an upholder of Dharma is seen in the vedic literature as one who is well versed in brahmavidya. The famous conversation of Nachiketa and Yama, Savitri and Yama stand as a testimony to the greatness of Yama's knowledge of the subtle aspects of Vedas.  

 Yama, as an upholder of Dharma is seen in the vedic literature as one who is well versed in brahmavidya. The famous conversation of Nachiketa and Yama, Savitri and Yama stand as a testimony to the greatness of Yama's knowledge of the subtle aspects of Vedas.  

=== Rig Veda ===

=== Rigveda ===

 Among the many devatas, Yamadeva is one of the significant ones, as he represents Kala (time). Along with Indra, Varuna, Agni, and Soma, Yama is also worshiped since Vedic times. Yama is mentioned in many instances in the Rig Veda. <blockquote>"यत्र राजा वैवस्वतो यत्रावरोधनं दिवः | यत्रामूर्यह्वतीरापस्तत्र माममृतं कृधीन्द्रायेन्दो परि स्रव ||" (Rig. Veda. 9.113.8)<ref>Rig Veda ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/mandal-09-sukta-113/ Mandala 9, Sukta 113])</ref></blockquote><blockquote>"yatra rājā vaivasvato yatrāvarodhanaṁ divaḥ | yatrāmūryahvatīrāpastatra māmamr̥taṁ kr̥dhīndrāyendo pari srava ||" (Rig. Veda. 9.113.8) </blockquote>Meaning : Make me eternal in the realms where King Vivaswaan's son rules. Surya is also called Vivasvaan.<blockquote>"तिस्रो द्यावः सवितुर द्वा उपस्थां एका यमस्य भुवने विराषाट | आणिं न रथ्यममृताधि तस्थुरिह ब्रवीतु य उ तच्चिकेतत् ||" (Rig. Veda. 1.35.6)<ref>Rig Veda ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/rigveda-shakala-samhitas-mandal-01-sukta-035/ Mandala 1, Sukta 35])</ref></blockquote><blockquote>"tisro dyāvaḥ savitura dvā upasthāṁ ekā yamasya bhuvane virāṣāṭa | āṇiṁ na rathyamamr̥tādhi tasthuriha bravītu ya u tacciketat ||" (Rig. Veda. 1.35.6)</blockquote>Meaning: Two of the three Urdhvalokas (Higher heavens) are controlled by Savitr, and one by Yama.

 Among the many devatas, Yamadeva is one of the significant ones, as he represents Kala (time). Along with Indra, Varuna, Agni, and Soma, Yama is also worshiped since Vedic times. Yama is mentioned in many instances in the Rig Veda. <blockquote>"यत्र राजा वैवस्वतो यत्रावरोधनं दिवः | यत्रामूर्यह्वतीरापस्तत्र माममृतं कृधीन्द्रायेन्दो परि स्रव ||" (Rig. Veda. 9.113.8)<ref>Rig Veda ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/mandal-09-sukta-113/ Mandala 9, Sukta 113])</ref></blockquote><blockquote>"yatra rājā vaivasvato yatrāvarodhanaṁ divaḥ | yatrāmūryahvatīrāpastatra māmamr̥taṁ kr̥dhīndrāyendo pari srava ||" (Rig. Veda. 9.113.8) </blockquote>Meaning : Make me eternal in the realms where King Vivaswaan's son rules. Surya is also called Vivasvaan.<blockquote>"तिस्रो द्यावः सवितुर द्वा उपस्थां एका यमस्य भुवने विराषाट | आणिं न रथ्यममृताधि तस्थुरिह ब्रवीतु य उ तच्चिकेतत् ||" (Rig. Veda. 1.35.6)<ref>Rig Veda ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/rigveda-shakala-samhitas-mandal-01-sukta-035/ Mandala 1, Sukta 35])</ref></blockquote><blockquote>"tisro dyāvaḥ savitura dvā upasthāṁ ekā yamasya bhuvane virāṣāṭa | āṇiṁ na rathyamamr̥tādhi tasthuriha bravītu ya u tacciketat ||" (Rig. Veda. 1.35.6)</blockquote>Meaning: Two of the three Urdhvalokas (Higher heavens) are controlled by Savitr, and one by Yama.

Swarga (heavens) are three in number, of which two, the द्युर्लोकः || [[Dyurlok (द्यु्र्लोक)|Dyurloka]] (land of light )  and Bhuloka are under the control of the Surya. One is under the control of Yama.  

Swarga (heavens) are three in number, of which two, the द्युर्लोकः || [[Dyurlok (द्यु्र्लोक)|Dyurloka]] (land of light)  and Bhuloka are under the control of the Surya. One is under the control of Yama.  

Sayanacharaya explains that Yama controls the middle planet Antariksha where exists the Yamaloka also described as Paravyoma, it is the higher plane of existence for the dead, who along with the pitris (ancestors) reside in this place for which Yama is the palaka (governor). Thus, Yamaloka and the Pitruloka are under the control of Yama.   

Sayanacharaya explains that Yama controls the middle loka Antariksha where exists the Yamaloka also described as Paravyoma, it is the higher plane of existence for the dead, who along with the pitris (ancestors) reside in this place for which Yama is the palaka (governor). Thus, Yamaloka and the Pitruloka are under the control of Yama.   

Therefore, it should not be hastily construed that Yamaloka is the land of suffering alone. This larger understanding as explained in the Vedas demolishes the common notions prevalent among people, that Yamaloka is an infernal place. However it should be emphasized that Naraka does exist and Yamadeva oversees the activities there. Thus, the common notion that Yama is only the master of the Naraka (hell) is not appropriate.<ref name=":1">Narayanacharya, K. S. (2011). ''Veda Samskrita Parichaya''. Hubli:​Sahitya Prakashana​.</ref>  

Therefore, it should not be hastily construed that Yamaloka is the land of suffering alone. This larger understanding as explained in the Vedas demolishes the common notions prevalent among people, that Yamaloka is an infernal place. However it should be emphasized that Naraka does exist and Yamadeva oversees the activities there. Thus, the common notion that Yama is only the master of the Naraka (hell) is not appropriate.<ref name=":1">Narayanacharya, K. S. (2011). ''Veda Samskrita Parichaya''. Hubli:​Sahitya Prakashana​.</ref>

=== Kathopanishad ===

=== Kathopanishad ===

Nachiketa’s journey to Yamaloka is described in describes Nachiketa's understanding that the yamaloka is the resting place of his pitris (ancestors). He also heard the playing of the flute (Rig Veda. 10.135.7).  

Nachiketa’s journey to Yamaloka is described in describes Nachiketa's understanding that the yamaloka is the resting place of his pitris (ancestors). He also heard the playing of the flute (Rig Veda. 10.135.7).  

Yama upon Nachiketa's perseverance reveals the eternal secret of the Vedas to him. Even though every living entity has eternal association with Paramatma, an age-old question that bothers many people, is how does Jiva acquire births as different species of lifeforms? Yama discusses the role of Paramatma for jiva as an indwelling Consciousness and its impact on  jiva’s rise and fall.<ref name=":1" />     <blockquote>"नचिकेतमुपाख्यानं मृत्युप्रोक्तं सनातनम् ||" (Katha. Upan. 3.16)<ref>[http://vedicheritage.gov.in/upanishads/kathopanishad/ Kathopanishad]</ref></blockquote>Meaning'':'' This is Sanaatana (timeless) Nachiketa story told by Mrityu (Yama).     

Yama upon Nachiketa's perseverance reveals the eternal secret of the Vedas to him. Even though every living entity has eternal association with Paramatma, an age-old question that bothers many people, is how does Jiva acquire births as different species of lifeforms? Yama discusses the role of Paramatma for jiva as an indwelling Consciousness and its impact on  jiva’s rise and fall.<ref name=":1" /><blockquote>नचिकेतमुपाख्यानं मृत्युप्रोक्तं सनातनम् || (Katha. Upan. 3.16)<ref>[http://vedicheritage.gov.in/upanishads/kathopanishad/ Kathopanishad]</ref></blockquote><blockquote>''naciketamupākhyānaṁ mr̥tyuproktaṁ sanātanam ||''</blockquote>Meaning'':'' This is Sanaatana (timeless) Nachiketa story told by Mrityu (Yama).     

In this Upanishad, Yama is referred to, not as a person, but by Antaka, Mrityu, and Vaivasvata. Kathopanishad contains the 'secrets of death'. Yama answers these questions, though some may assume this is the act of destiny or blame the paramatma for pushing jiva into different forms of life, it is the own actions or Karma of the Jiva when in bodily form, that makes a Jiva attain births in different life forms.<ref name=":1" />   <blockquote>"अङ्गुष्ठमात्रः पुरुषोऽन्तरात्मा सदा जनानां हृदये सन्निविष्टः ||" (Katha. Upan. 6.16)</blockquote>Meaning'':'' In the body, in the hridaya-stana, is seated the thumbsized  Jivatma (Inner Self) which is immortal.         

In this Upanishad, Yama is referred to, not as a person, but by Antaka, Mrityu, and Vaivasvata. Kathopanishad contains the 'secrets of death'. Yama answers these questions, though some may assume this is the act of destiny or blame the paramatma for pushing jiva into different forms of life, it is the own actions or Karma of the Jiva when in bodily form, that makes a Jiva attain births in different life forms.<ref name=":1" /><blockquote>अङ्गुष्ठमात्रः पुरुषोऽन्तरात्मा सदा जनानां हृदये सन्निविष्टः || (Katha. Upan. 6.16)</blockquote><blockquote>''aṅguṣṭhamātraḥ puruṣo'ntarātmā sadā janānāṁ hr̥daye sanniviṣṭaḥ ||''</blockquote>Meaning'':'' In the body, in the hridaya-stana, is seated the thumbsized  Jivatma (Inner Self) which is immortal.         

Apart from the above mentioned instances the story of [[Nachiketa (नचिकेत)|Nachiketa]] and his conversation with Yama is found in Taittriya Brahmana, Varaha Purana and Mahabharata         

Apart from the above mentioned instances the story of [[Nachiketa (नचिकेताः)|Nachiketa]] and his conversation with Yama is found in Taittriya Brahmana, Varaha Purana and Mahabharata         

== Yama in Mahabharata ==

== Yama in Mahabharata ==

=== Yama and Sarmi ===

=== Yama and Sarmi ===

This famous legend about Savitri, a mahapativrata, who brought back the life of her husband Satyavan from Yama, is given in the Vanaparva of Mahabharata (Chap 293 to 299)<ref name=":0" />. Savitri upon her husband's death, follows Yama to the neither worlds, and seeing her resolve Yama offers her four boons, except the life of her husband. As a first boon, she asks for the restoration of the eyesight of Dyumatsena, the King of Salva and father of Satyavan.  Secondly she asks that his lost kingdom be restored to him, which Yama willingly grants her. For her third boon she asks that her father, Asvapati, the King of Madra, be blessed with hundred sons to continue the lineage. As she still refused to leave her husband, Yama pleased at her love and devotion, grants her the fourth boon.  For her fourth boon she asks to be blessed by a hundred sons from Satyavan, to which Yama agrees in haste. Realizing the futility of the boon if Satyavan is not alive, Yama grants her back the life of Satyavan.  

This famous legend about Savitri, a mahapativrata, who brought back the life of her husband Satyavan from Yama, is given in the Vanaparva of Mahabharata (Chap 293 to 299)<ref name=":0" />. Savitri upon her husband's death, follows Yama to the neither worlds, and seeing her resolve Yama offers her four boons, except the life of her husband. As a first boon, she asks for the restoration of the eyesight of Dyumatsena, the King of Salva and father of Satyavan.  Secondly she asks that his lost kingdom be restored to him, which Yama willingly grants her. For her third boon she asks that her father, Asvapati, the King of Madra, be blessed with hundred sons to continue the lineage. As she still refused to leave her husband, Yama pleased at her love and devotion, grants her the fourth boon.  For her fourth boon she asks to be blessed by a hundred sons from Satyavan, to which Yama agrees in haste. Realizing the futility of the boon if Satyavan is not alive, Yama grants her back the life of Satyavan.  

== Yama And Crows ==

== Yama And Crows ==

In Valmiki Ramayana, Uttara Kanda, there is a legend about the crow's right to eat the offering of rice to Pitrus.<ref name=":2" /> 

In Valmiki Ramayana, Uttara Kanda, there is a legend about the crow's right to eat the offering of rice to Pitrus.<ref name=":2" />

Once a King named Marutta performed a Mahesvara sattra. Indra and other Gods attended the sattra; hearing about this, Ravana came that way. The frightened Gods took the forms of different birds. Indra took the form of peacock, Yama a crow. Kubera, a chameleon. Varuna took the form of a Royal Swan. From that time, Yama was pleased with crows. 

Once a King named Marutta performed a Mahesvara sattra. Indra and other Gods attended the sattra; hearing about this, Ravana came that way. The frightened Gods took the forms of different birds. Indra took the form of peacock, Yama a crow. Kubera, a chameleon. Varuna took the form of a Royal Swan. From that time, Yama was pleased with crows. 

He gave a blessing that in future, when human beings worship the pitrus by offering rice to them, the crows will have the right to eat that rice.  

He gave a blessing that in future, when human beings worship the pitrus by offering rice to them, the crows will have the right to eat that rice.  

== Worship of Yama ==

== Worship of Yama ==

A special mention of worship of Yama is made here since Yama is feared in general and his worship is less known. However, during the time of Deepavali, Yama is worshipped. Yamapanchakas is the period of time starting from Asweyuja Krishna Trayodasi (13th day of the Second half of Asweyuja month) till Kaartika Suddha Tritiya (3rd day of the First half of Kaartika month). Based on different calendars the month is either Asweyuja or Kartika, but it happens during the time of Deepavali. The day of Narakachaturdashi falls in between these five days. The worship of Yama is also observed in Nepal.<ref>https://www.ishtadevata.com/events/event/yama-panchak-begins-2/</ref>  

A special mention of worship of Yama is made here since Yama is feared in general and his worship is less known. However, during the time of Deepavali, Yama is worshipped. Yamapanchakas is the period of time starting from Asweyuja Krishna Trayodasi (13th day of the Second half of Asweyuja month) till Kaartika Suddha Tritiya (3rd day of the First half of Kaartika month). Based on different calendars the month is either Asweyuja or Kartika, but it happens during the time of Deepavali. The day of Narakachaturdashi falls in between these five days. The worship of Yama is also observed in Nepal.<ref>https://www.ishtadevata.com/events/event/yama-panchak-begins-2/</ref>

Sacred texts like Dharmasindhu<ref>Upadhyaya, Kasinath (1907) ''[https://archive.org/stream/DHARMASINDHU/DHARMA%20SINDHU#page/n1/mode/2up The Dharmasindhu]'' Delhi : Sri Sadguru Publications</ref> prescribe that after taking bath on Naraka Chaturdasi day all those who are eligible to offer Pithru tharpana (offerings to ancestors) should give Thila Tharpanam (offering of sesame or gingelly seeds) in the name of Yamadeva (Mrityudevata). This is called Yama Tharpanam, which is done by reciting the following mantras having the 14 names of Yamadharmaraja. 

Sacred texts like Dharmasindhu<ref>Upadhyaya, Kasinath (1907) ''[https://archive.org/stream/DHARMASINDHU/DHARMA%20SINDHU#page/n1/mode/2up The Dharmasindhu]'' Delhi : Sri Sadguru Publications</ref> prescribe that after taking bath on Naraka Chaturdasi day all those who are eligible to offer Pithru tharpana (offerings to ancestors) should give Thila Tharpanam (offering of sesame or gingelly seeds) in the name of Yamadeva (Mrityudevata). This is called Yama Tharpanam, which is done by reciting the following mantras having the 14 names of Yamadharmaraja. 

According to Dharma Sindhu this Tharpana should be given by one and all irrespective of the fact whether one's father is alive or not. In case father is not alive tila tarpanas can be given with yagnopaveetam in Apasavya position. In case one's father is alive, it should be given with water and rice with yagnopaveetham in Savya position.

According to Dharma Sindhu this Tharpana should be given by one and all irrespective of the fact whether one's father is alive or not. In case father is not alive tila tarpanas can be given with yagnopaveetam in Apasavya position. In case one's father is alive, it should be given with water and rice with yagnopaveetham in Savya position.

== Verses and Meanings ==

== Verses and Meanings ==

यम सूक्त || Yama Sukta in Rig Veda<blockquote>प्रेहि प्रेहि पथिभिः पूर्व्येभिर्यत्रा नः पूर्वे पितरःपरेयुः | उभा राजाना स्वधया मदन्ता यमं पश्यासिवरुणं च देवम || 7</blockquote><blockquote>prehi prehi pathibhiḥ pūrvyebhiryatrā naḥ pūrve pitaraḥpareyuḥ | ubhā rājānā svadhayā madantā yamaṁ paśyāsivaruṇaṁ ca devama || 7</blockquote><blockquote>सं गच्छस्व पित्र्भिः सं यमेनेष्टापूर्तेन परमेव्योमन् | हित्वायावद्यं पुनरस्तमेहि सं गच्छस्व तन्वासुवर्चाः || 8</blockquote><blockquote>saṁ gacchasva pitrbhiḥ saṁ yameneṣṭāpūrtena paramevyoman | hitvāyāvadyaṁ punarastamehi saṁ gacchasva tanvāsuvarcāḥ || 8</blockquote><blockquote>अपेत वीत वि च सर्पतातोऽस्मा एतं पितरो लोकमक्रन् | अहोभिरद्भिरक्तुभिर्व्यक्तं यमो ददात्यवसानमस्मै || 9</blockquote><blockquote>apeta vīta vi ca sarpatāto'smā etaṁ pitaro lokamakran | ahobhiradbhiraktubhirvyaktaṁ yamo dadātyavasānamasmai || 9</blockquote><blockquote>अति द्रव सारमेयौ श्वानौ चतुरक्षौ शबलौ साधुना पथा | अथा पितॄन्त्सुविदत्रानुपेहि यमेन ये सधमादं मदन्ति || 10 (Rig. Veda. 10.14)</blockquote><blockquote>ati drava sārameyau śvānau caturakṣau śabalau sādhunā pathā | athā pitr̥̄ntsuvidatrānupehi yamena ye sadhamādaṁ madanti || 10 (Rig. Veda. 10.14)<ref>Rig Veda ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/rigveda-shakala-samhita-mandal-10-sukta-014/ Mandala 10, Sukta 14])</ref></blockquote>'''Brief Summary''' '''of the Sukta:'''  This is a sukta in honor of Yama. We honor Yama, Vivasvan's son, who gathers all men together, and shows them a place to stay. He travels above and shows the path to many. Men may chose their own path to their ancestors (based on their deeds). Along with the [[Angirasa (अङ्गिरसः)|Angirasas]], Atharvans, Bhrigus, Yama is invited to have Soma. All the meters Tristub, Gayatri are contained in Yama. Mantra 8 and 9 in this sukta explain that Yamaloka is an abode for the ancestors, where they are given a place to rest with light and water.   

यम सूक्त || Yama Sukta in Rig Veda<blockquote>प्रेहि प्रेहि पथिभिः पूर्व्येभिर्यत्रा नः पूर्वे पितरःपरेयुः | उभा राजाना स्वधया मदन्ता यमं पश्यासिवरुणं च देवम || 7</blockquote><blockquote>prehi prehi pathibhiḥ pūrvyebhiryatrā naḥ pūrve pitaraḥpareyuḥ | ubhā rājānā svadhayā madantā yamaṁ paśyāsivaruṇaṁ ca devama || 7</blockquote><blockquote>सं गच्छस्व पित्र्भिः सं यमेनेष्टापूर्तेन परमेव्योमन् | हित्वायावद्यं पुनरस्तमेहि सं गच्छस्व तन्वासुवर्चाः || 8</blockquote><blockquote>saṁ gacchasva pitrbhiḥ saṁ yameneṣṭāpūrtena paramevyoman | hitvāyāvadyaṁ punarastamehi saṁ gacchasva tanvāsuvarcāḥ || 8</blockquote><blockquote>अपेत वीत वि च सर्पतातोऽस्मा एतं पितरो लोकमक्रन् | अहोभिरद्भिरक्तुभिर्व्यक्तं यमो ददात्यवसानमस्मै || 9</blockquote><blockquote>apeta vīta vi ca sarpatāto'smā etaṁ pitaro lokamakran | ahobhiradbhiraktubhirvyaktaṁ yamo dadātyavasānamasmai || 9</blockquote><blockquote>अति द्रव सारमेयौ श्वानौ चतुरक्षौ शबलौ साधुना पथा | अथा पितॄन्त्सुविदत्रानुपेहि यमेन ये सधमादं मदन्ति || 10 (Rig. Veda. 10.14)</blockquote><blockquote>ati drava sārameyau śvānau caturakṣau śabalau sādhunā pathā | athā pitr̥̄ntsuvidatrānupehi yamena ye sadhamādaṁ madanti || 10 (Rig. Veda. 10.14)<ref>Rig Veda ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/rigveda-shakala-samhita-mandal-10-sukta-014/ Mandala 10, Sukta 14])</ref></blockquote>'''Brief Summary''' '''of the Sukta:'''  This is a sukta in honor of Yama. We honor Yama, Vivasvan's son, who gathers all men together, and shows them a place to stay. He travels above and shows the path to many. Men may chose their own path to their ancestors (based on their deeds). Along with the [[Angirasa (अङ्गिरसः)|Angirasas]], Atharvans, Bhrigus, Yama is invited to have Soma. All the meters Tristub, Gayatri are contained in Yama. Mantra 8 and 9 in this sukta explain that Yamaloka is an abode for the ancestors, where they are given a place to rest with light and water.   

== References ==

== References ==

[[Category:Devatas]]

[[Category:Devatas]]