Abhasvaras, or Abhasuras, are celestial beings mentioned in
the Puranas and the Anusasana Parva of the Mahabharata. They are considered as
a group of gods – there are a total 64 Abhasvaras of which 12 are considered
important. They are the gods that supervise enlightenment.
It is also stated in the Hindu scriptures that Abhasvaras
are personifications of mental qualities.
Literally, Abhasvaras mean the shining ones.
The 12 main Abhasuras are:
Jnana – knowledge
Tapas – penance
Atma – soul
Danta – patience
Shanti – peace
Sama – tranquility
Krodha – anger
Mada – intoxication
Jnta – knower
Dama – restraint
Moha – delusion
Source – The Mahabharata book 13 Anusasana Parva by Kisari
Mohan Ganguli
Source – Hinduism – An Alphabetical Guide Roshen Dalal