Mitra is the god of friendship and oaths. He is an old god. He is also called the light of the morning sun. He is an Aditya, so a son of Aditi. He also represents harmony and many other characteristics needed to maintain order in human existence. Mitra is also a negotiator for the gods and men. He is a maintainer of rta.
Family
- Father: Kashyapa
- Mother: Aditi
- Brothers: Indra, Amsa, Aryaman, Varuna, Bhaga, Pusan, Dhatri, Tvastra
Mitra-Varuna
Mitra is paired with Varuna, his brother, many times. They form a godly pair called Mitra-Varuna. Both have very similar characteristics. The greater of the two is Varuna. Since Mitra is the sustainer of human order and Varuna is the sustainer of cosmic order they are called guardians of the universe. They balance each other equally to make sure the universe functions properly. Sometimes, Mitra and Varuna are called twins. Mitra and Varuna are called good asuras sometimes, and are called devas other times.
Characteristics
Mitra is called very young, along with Varuna.