From the Vedic period to the modern times, all rituals based on the Vedic teachings offer prayers to various Divinities. They are known by the names like Adhithi, Prajapati, Indra, Varuna, Yama, Rudra and Purusha. These are Divine creations and Celestial bodies, called "Devas" and they live in "Devaloka". For simplicity of translations in English language, they are often referred to as "God or gods" though they are more like celestial beings, or "Angels". They occupy certain exalted positions in the heavenly worlds from which they control the rain, sunshine, wind, water, fire, death and other forces of natural phenomena. They are the manifestations of the powers of Brahman or the Ultimate Supreme reality, in the Phenomenal Universe created by His Yoga Maya.

These Devas or the "Vedic gods" are the custodians of social well-being of all men. They draw their sustenance through our sacrificial offerings and rituals. They do not tolerate if we violate our Social Obligations. A Devotee, by worshipping them without a selfish motive will obtain purity of heart, through the grace of these Devas. They give him peace of mind and helps him in realizing the Ultimate Truth. In the Vedic times, gods were propitiated by means of ritualistic offerings to the sacrificial fire, which has been largely replaced in later times by Agama style of worship in Temples and prayers and rituals in homes, offered to the "One Supreme Truth" in many forms.

Vedas taught us:

"Idham Mithram Agnim Aahu Atho; Dhivya Sah Suparnah Garuthman !

E'kam Sath Viprah Bahudha Vadanthi, Agnim ! Yama Matharisvanam Aahuh!!"

--- (Rigveda - -I -164 - 46).

"They call It (Him) Indra, Varuna, Agni; and He is the heavenly Nobly-winged Garuthman !

Truth is One, Sages give It many a title; Agni, Yama, Matharisvan they call It (Him) !!"