Deva

Deva is a term that has multiple meanings across different cultures and languages. In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, a deva (Devanagari: देव, also known as devatā or devī in feminine form) refers to a class of supernatural beings, often translated as "gods" or "heavenly beings." These beings are considered to be benevolent and are part of the broader cosmology of Hinduism, Buddhism, and other Dharmic religions. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word div, meaning "to shine" or "celestial." In Romanian, Deva (pronounced [ˈdeva]) is a city in the northwestern part of the country, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. In Hebrew, the term does not have a direct translation, but the concept of divine beings is often referred to as malachim (מלאכים), meaning "angels." In Latin, the equivalent term is deus, which also means "god." The context in which the term deva is used is crucial for understanding its specific meaning, whether it refers to a divine being in religious texts or a geographical location in Romania.