Yama is a figure in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, often regarded as the god of death, justice, and the underworld. In Sanskrit, the term Yama translates to "twin" or "restrainer," reflecting his role in maintaining cosmic order. In Hebrew, Yama can be translated as יאמה. In Tibetan, he is known as Gshin-rje, and in Chinese, he is referred to as Yanluo Wang (閻羅王). Yama is mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Vedas and the Puranas, where he is depicted as a righteous judge who presides over the afterlife, determining the fate of souls based on their deeds during their earthly lives. He is often accompanied by his sister, Yamuna, and his messengers, the Yamadutas, who guide the souls of the deceased to his court. Yama's role is also significant in Buddhist cosmology, where he is considered one of the guardians of the directions and a protector of the Dharma.
Hindu god of death
Yama, also known as Kāla and Dharmarāja, is the Hindu god of death and justice, responsible for the dispensation of law and punishment of sinners in his abode, Naraka. He is often identified with Dharmadeva, the personification of Dharma, though the two deities have different origins and myths.