Difference between revisions of "Hindu cosmology"
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− | The [[Hindu]] [[cosmology]] and timeline is the closest to {{Wiki|modern}} [[scientific]] timelines and even more which might indicate that the Big Bang is not the beginning of everything but just the start of the present cycle preceded by an [[infinite]] number of [[universes]] and to be followed by another [[infinite]] number of [[universes]]. It also includes an [[infinite]] number of [[universes]] at one given [[time]]. | + | The [[Hindu]] [[cosmology]] and timeline is the closest to {{Wiki|modern}} [[scientific]] timelines and even more which might indicate that the [[Big Bang]] is not the beginning of everything but just the start of the {{Wiki|present}} cycle preceded by an [[infinite]] number of [[universes]] and to be followed by another [[infinite]] number of [[universes]]. It also includes an [[infinite]] number of [[universes]] at one given [[time]]. |
[[File:Garuda 021.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Garuda 021.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | The {{Wiki|Rig Veda}} questions the origin of the [[cosmos]] in: "Neither {{Wiki|being}} (sat) nor non-being was as yet. What was concealed? And where? And in whose protection?…Who really [[knows]]? Who can declare it? Whence was it born, and whence came this creation? The [[devas]] were born later than this world's creation, so who [[knows]] from where it came into [[existence]]? None can know from where creation has arisen, and whether he has or has not produced it. He who surveys it in the [[highest]] [[heavens]], he alone knows-or perhaps does not know." ({{Wiki|Rig Veda}} 10. 129) | + | The {{Wiki|Rig Veda}} questions the origin of the [[cosmos]] in: "Neither {{Wiki|being}} (sat) nor [[non-being]] was as yet. What was concealed? And where? And in whose protection?…Who really [[knows]]? Who can declare it? Whence was it born, and whence came this creation? The [[devas]] were born later than this world's creation, so who [[knows]] from where it came into [[existence]]? None can know from where creation has arisen, and whether he has or has not produced it. He who surveys it in the [[highest]] [[heavens]], he alone knows-or perhaps does not know." ({{Wiki|Rig Veda}} 10. 129) |
[[File:Mani958.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Mani958.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | The Rig Veda's [[view]] of the [[cosmos]] also sees one true [[divine]] {{Wiki|principle}} self-projecting as the [[divine]] [[word]], Vaak, 'birthing' the [[cosmos]] that we know, from the monistic Hiranyagarbha or Golden [[Womb]]. The Hiranyagarbha is alternatively viewed as [[Brahma]], the [[creator]] who was in turn created by [[God]], or as [[God]] ([[Brahman]]) himself. The [[universe]] is considered to constantly expand since creation and disappear into a thin haze after billions of years. An alternate [[view]] is that the [[universe]] begins to contract after reaching its maximum expansion limits until it disappears into a fraction of a millimeter. The creation begins anew after billions of years (Solar years) of [[non-existence]]. | + | The Rig [[Veda's]] [[view]] of the [[cosmos]] also sees one true [[divine]] {{Wiki|principle}} self-projecting as the [[divine]] [[word]], Vaak, 'birthing' the [[cosmos]] that we know, from the {{Wiki|monistic}} Hiranyagarbha or Golden [[Womb]]. The Hiranyagarbha is alternatively viewed as [[Brahma]], the [[creator]] who was in turn created by [[God]], or as [[God]] ([[Brahman]]) himself. The [[universe]] is considered to constantly expand since creation and disappear into a thin haze after billions of years. An alternate [[view]] is that the [[universe]] begins to contract after reaching its maximum expansion limits until it disappears into a fraction of a millimeter. The creation begins anew after billions of years (Solar years) of [[non-existence]]. |
− | The {{Wiki|puranic}} [[view]] asserts that the [[universe]] is created, destroyed, and re-created in an eternally repetitive series of cycles. In [[Hindu]] [[cosmology]], a [[universe]] endures for about 4,320,000,000 years (one day of [[Brahma]], the [[creator]] or [[kalpa]]) and is then destroyed by [[fire]] or [[water elements]]. At this point, [[Brahma]] rests for one night, just as long as the day. This process, named pralaya (literally especial [[dissolution]] in [[Sanskrit]], commonly translated as Cataclysm), repeats for 100 [[Brahma]] years (311 Trillion, 40 Billion [[Human]] Years) that represents [[Brahma's]] lifespan. [[Brahma]] is regarded as a [[manifestation]] of [[Brahman]] as the [[creator]]. | + | The {{Wiki|puranic}} [[view]] asserts that the [[universe]] is created, destroyed, and re-created in an eternally repetitive series of cycles. In [[Hindu]] [[cosmology]], a [[universe]] endures for about 4,320,000,000 years (one day of [[Brahma]], the [[creator]] or [[kalpa]]) and is then destroyed by [[fire]] or [[water elements]]. At this point, [[Brahma]] rests for one night, just as long as the day. This process, named [[pralaya]] (literally especial [[dissolution]] in [[Sanskrit]], commonly translated as Cataclysm), repeats for 100 [[Brahma]] years (311 Trillion, 40 Billion [[Human]] Years) that represents [[Brahma's]] [[lifespan]]. [[Brahma]] is regarded as a [[manifestation]] of [[Brahman]] as the [[creator]]. |
[[File:6fe537d4c770.jpeg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:6fe537d4c770.jpeg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | We are currently believed to be in the 51st year of the present [[Brahma]] and so about 156 trillion years have elapsed since He was born as [[Brahma]]. After [[Brahma's]] "[[death]]", it is necessary that another 100 [[Brahma]] years (311 Trillion, 40 Billion Years) pass until a new [[Brahma]] is born and the whole creation begins anew. This process is repeated again and again, forever. | + | We are currently believed to be in the 51st year of the {{Wiki|present}} [[Brahma]] and so about 156 trillion years have elapsed since He was born as [[Brahma]]. After [[Brahma's]] "[[death]]", it is necessary that another 100 [[Brahma]] years (311 Trillion, 40 Billion Years) pass until a new [[Brahma]] is born and the whole creation begins anew. This process is repeated again and again, forever. |
− | [[Brahma's]] day is divided in one thousand cycles ([[Maha Yuga]], or the Great Year). [[Maha Yuga]], during which [[life]], including the [[human]] race appears and then disappears, has 71 divisions, each made of 14 Manvantara (1000) years. Each [[Maha Yuga]] lasts for 4,320,000 years. Manvantara is Manu's cycle, the one who gives [[birth]] and governs the [[human]] race. before & after each manvantara there's a sandhikal as long as krutyuga & in that [[time]] there is all [[water]] on [[earth]]. Each [[Maha Yuga]] consists of a series of four shorter [[yugas]], or ages. The [[yugas]] get progressively worse from a [[moral]] point of [[view]] as one proceeds from one [[yuga]] to another. As a result, each [[yuga]] is of shorter [[duration]] than the age that preceded it. The current [[Kali Yuga]] ([[Iron Age]]) began at midnight 17 February / 18 February in 3102 BC in the proleptic Julian [[calendar]] (Year 6898 of the Holocene {{Wiki|Era}}.) kalpa=ahoratra of [[brahma]]. {{Wiki|Space and time}} are considered to be [[maya]] ([[illusion]]). What looks like 100 years in the [[cosmos]] of [[Brahma]] could be thousands of years in other [[worlds]], millions of years in some other [[worlds]] and 311 trillion and 40 billion years for our {{Wiki|solar system}} and [[earth]]. The [[life]] span of [[Lord]] [[Brahma]], the [[creator]], is 100 'Brahma-Years'. One day in the [[life]] of [[Brahma]] is called a [[Kalpa]] or 4.32 billion years. Every [[Kalpa]] creates 14 Manus one after the other, who in turn [[manifest]] and regulate this [[world]]. Thus, there are fourteen generations of [[Manu]] in each [[Kalpa]]. Each Manu's [[life]] (Manvantara) consists of 71 Chaturyugas (quartets of [[Yugas]] or eras). Each Chaturyuga is composed of four eras or [[Yugas]]: Satya, Treta, Dwapara and [[Kali]]. if we add all manvantaras(4320000x71x14)as long as 4 chaturyuga will be missing its because sandhikaal.after & before each manvantara so 15 sandhikaal The span of the [[Satya Yuga]] is 1,728,000 [[human]] years, [[Treta Yuga]] is 1,296,000 [[human]] years long, the Dwapara [[Yuga]] 864,000 [[human]] years and the [[Kali Yuga]] 432,000 [[human]] years. When [[Manu]] perishes at the end of his [[life]], [[Brahma]] creates the next [[Manu]] and the cycle continues until all fourteen Manus and the [[Universe]] perish by the end of Bramha's day. When 'night' falls, [[Brahma]] goes to [[sleep]] for a period of 4.32 billion years, which is a period of [[time]] {{Wiki|equal}} one day (of [[Brahma]]) and the [[lives]] of fourteen Manus. The next 'morning', [[Brahma]] creates fourteen additional Manus in sequence just as he has done on the previous 'day'. The cycle goes on for 100 '[[divine]] years' at the end of which [[Brahma]] perishes and is regenerated. Bramha's entire [[life]] equals 311 trillion, 40 billion years. Once Bramha [[dies]] there is an {{Wiki|equal}} period of unmanifestation for 311 trillion, 40 billion years, until the next Bramha is created. | + | [[Brahma's]] day is divided in one thousand cycles ([[Maha Yuga]], or the Great Year). [[Maha Yuga]], during which [[life]], including the [[human]] race appears and then disappears, has 71 divisions, each made of 14 [[Manvantara]] (1000) years. Each [[Maha Yuga]] lasts for 4,320,000 years. [[Manvantara]] is Manu's cycle, the one who gives [[birth]] and governs the [[human]] race. before & after each [[manvantara]] there's a sandhikal as long as krutyuga & in that [[time]] there is all [[water]] on [[earth]]. Each [[Maha Yuga]] consists of a series of four shorter [[yugas]], or ages. The [[yugas]] get progressively worse from a [[moral]] point of [[view]] as one proceeds from one [[yuga]] to another. As a result, each [[yuga]] is of shorter [[duration]] than the age that preceded it. The current [[Kali Yuga]] ([[Iron Age]]) began at midnight 17 February / 18 February in 3102 BC in the proleptic Julian [[calendar]] (Year 6898 of the Holocene {{Wiki|Era}}.) kalpa=ahoratra of [[brahma]]. {{Wiki|Space and time}} are considered to be [[maya]] ([[illusion]]). What looks like 100 years in the [[cosmos]] of [[Brahma]] could be thousands of years in other [[worlds]], millions of years in some other [[worlds]] and 311 trillion and 40 billion years for our {{Wiki|solar system}} and [[earth]]. The [[life]] span of [[Lord]] [[Brahma]], the [[creator]], is 100 'Brahma-Years'. One day in the [[life]] of [[Brahma]] is called a [[Kalpa]] or 4.32 billion years. Every [[Kalpa]] creates 14 [[Manus]] one after the other, who in turn [[manifest]] and regulate this [[world]]. Thus, there are fourteen generations of [[Manu]] in each [[Kalpa]]. Each Manu's [[life]] ([[Manvantara]]) consists of 71 Chaturyugas (quartets of [[Yugas]] or eras). Each Chaturyuga is composed of four eras or [[Yugas]]: [[Satya]], [[Treta]], Dwapara and [[Kali]]. if we add all manvantaras(4320000x71x14)as long as 4 chaturyuga will be missing its because sandhikaal.after & before each [[manvantara]] so 15 sandhikaal The span of the [[Satya Yuga]] is 1,728,000 [[human]] years, [[Treta Yuga]] is 1,296,000 [[human]] years long, the Dwapara [[Yuga]] 864,000 [[human]] years and the [[Kali Yuga]] 432,000 [[human]] years. When [[Manu]] perishes at the end of his [[life]], [[Brahma]] creates the next [[Manu]] and the cycle continues until all fourteen [[Manus]] and the [[Universe]] perish by the end of Bramha's day. When 'night' falls, [[Brahma]] goes to [[sleep]] for a period of 4.32 billion years, which is a period of [[time]] {{Wiki|equal}} one day (of [[Brahma]]) and the [[lives]] of fourteen [[Manus]]. The next 'morning', [[Brahma]] creates fourteen additional [[Manus]] in sequence just as he has done on the previous 'day'. The cycle goes on for 100 '[[divine]] years' at the end of which [[Brahma]] perishes and is regenerated. Bramha's entire [[life]] equals 311 trillion, 40 billion years. Once Bramha [[dies]] there is an {{Wiki|equal}} period of unmanifestation for 311 trillion, 40 billion years, until the next Bramha is created. |
− | The present period is the [[Kali Yuga]] or last {{Wiki|era}} in one of the 71 Chaturyugis (set of four Yugas/eras) in the [[life]] one of the fourteen Manus. The current [[Manu]] is said to be the seventh [[Manu]] and his [[name]] is Vaivasvat. | + | The {{Wiki|present}} period is the [[Kali Yuga]] or last {{Wiki|era}} in one of the 71 Chaturyugis (set of four Yugas/eras) in the [[life]] one of the fourteen [[Manus]]. The current [[Manu]] is said to be the seventh [[Manu]] and his [[name]] is Vaivasvat. |
− | According to Aryabhata, the [[Kali Yuga]] began in 3102 BC, at the end of the [[Dvapara Yuga]] that was marked by the [[disappearance]] of Vishnu's {{Wiki|Krishna}} [[avatar]]. Aryabhata's date is widely repeated in {{Wiki|modern}} [[Hinduism]]. | + | According to [[Aryabhata]], the [[Kali Yuga]] began in 3102 BC, at the end of the [[Dvapara Yuga]] that was marked by the [[disappearance]] of [[Vishnu's]] {{Wiki|Krishna}} [[avatar]]. Aryabhata's date is widely repeated in {{Wiki|modern}} [[Hinduism]]. |
[[File:6991 g.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:6991 g.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | The beginning of the new [[Yuga]] ({{Wiki|era}}) is known as "Yugadi/Ugadi", and is celebrated every year on the first day (Paadyami) of the first month (Chaitramu) of the 12-month annual cycle. But this is a disambiguation for beginning of new year in lunisolar [[calendar]] followed by most [[Hindus]]. The Ugadi of 1999 begins the year 1921 of the Shalivahana {{Wiki|era}} (5101 [[Kali Yuga]], 1999 AD). The end of the [[Kali Yuga]] is 426,899 years from 1921. | + | The beginning of the new [[Yuga]] ({{Wiki|era}}) is known as "Yugadi/Ugadi", and is celebrated every year on the first day (Paadyami) of the first month (Chaitramu) of the 12-month annual cycle. But this is a disambiguation for beginning of [[new year]] in {{Wiki|lunisolar}} [[calendar]] followed by most [[Hindus]]. The Ugadi of 1999 begins the year 1921 of the Shalivahana {{Wiki|era}} (5101 [[Kali Yuga]], 1999 AD). The end of the [[Kali Yuga]] is 426,899 years from 1921. |
Overview of [[Yugas]]: | Overview of [[Yugas]]: | ||
− | [[Satya Yuga]] (Krita [[Yuga]]):- 1,728,000 [[Human]] years | + | [[Satya Yuga]] ([[Krita]] [[Yuga]]):- 1,728,000 [[Human]] years |
[[Treta Yuga]]:- 1,296,000 [[Human]] years | [[Treta Yuga]]:- 1,296,000 [[Human]] years | ||
Dwapara [[Yuga]]:- 864,000 [[Human]] years | Dwapara [[Yuga]]:- 864,000 [[Human]] years | ||
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{{Wiki|Rig Veda}} | {{Wiki|Rig Veda}} | ||
− | The Nasadiya Sukta of the {{Wiki|Rig Veda}} describes the origin of the [[universe]]. The Rig Veda's [[view]] of the [[cosmos]] also sees one true [[divine]] {{Wiki|principle}} self-projecting as the [[divine]] [[word]], Vaak, 'birthing' the [[cosmos]] that we know, from the monistic Hiranyagarbha or Golden Egg. The Hiranyagarbha is alternatively viewed as [[Brahma]], the [[creator]] who was in turn created by [[God]], or as [[God]] ([[Brahman]]) Himself. The [[Universe]] is preserved by [[Vishnu]] (The [[God]] of Preservation) and destroyed by [[Shiva]] (The [[God]] of Destruction). These three constitute the holy {{Wiki|trinity}} (Trimurti) of the [[Hindu]] [[religion]]. Once the [[Universe]] has been destroyed by [[Shiva]], [[Brahma]] starts the creation once again. This creation-destruction cycle repeats itself almost endlessly as described in the section above on [[Brahma]], [[Manu]] and the [[Yugas]]. | + | The [[Nasadiya Sukta]] of the {{Wiki|Rig Veda}} describes the origin of the [[universe]]. The Rig [[Veda's]] [[view]] of the [[cosmos]] also sees one true [[divine]] {{Wiki|principle}} self-projecting as the [[divine]] [[word]], Vaak, 'birthing' the [[cosmos]] that we know, from the {{Wiki|monistic}} Hiranyagarbha or Golden Egg. The Hiranyagarbha is alternatively viewed as [[Brahma]], the [[creator]] who was in turn created by [[God]], or as [[God]] ([[Brahman]]) Himself. The [[Universe]] is preserved by [[Vishnu]] (The [[God]] of Preservation) and destroyed by [[Shiva]] (The [[God]] of Destruction). These three constitute the {{Wiki|holy}} {{Wiki|trinity}} ([[Trimurti]]) of the [[Hindu]] [[religion]]. Once the [[Universe]] has been destroyed by [[Shiva]], [[Brahma]] starts the creation once again. This creation-destruction cycle repeats itself almost endlessly as described in the section above on [[Brahma]], [[Manu]] and the [[Yugas]]. |
The {{Wiki|Puranas}} | The {{Wiki|Puranas}} | ||
− | The later {{Wiki|Puranic}} [[view]] asserts that the [[Universe]] is created, destroyed, and re-created in an eternally repetitive series of cycles. In [[Hindu]] [[cosmology]], a [[universe]] endures for about 4,320,000,000 years—one day/Kalpa of [[Brahma]], the [[creator]], and is then destroyed by [[fire]] or [[water elements]]. At this point, [[Brahma]] rests for one night, just as long as the day. This process, named Pralaya (Cataclysm), repeats for 100 [[Brahma]] years (311 trillion, 40 billion [[human]] years) that represents [[Brahma's]] lifespan. [[Brahma]] is the [[creator]] but not necessarily regarded as [[God]] in [[Hinduism]] because there are said to be many {{Wiki|creations}}. Instead, he is regarded as a creation of the [[Supreme]] [[God]] or [[Brahman]]. | + | The later {{Wiki|Puranic}} [[view]] asserts that the [[Universe]] is created, destroyed, and re-created in an eternally repetitive series of cycles. In [[Hindu]] [[cosmology]], a [[universe]] endures for about 4,320,000,000 years—one day/Kalpa of [[Brahma]], the [[creator]], and is then destroyed by [[fire]] or [[water elements]]. At this point, [[Brahma]] rests for one night, just as long as the day. This process, named [[Pralaya]] (Cataclysm), repeats for 100 [[Brahma]] years (311 trillion, 40 billion [[human]] years) that represents [[Brahma's]] [[lifespan]]. [[Brahma]] is the [[creator]] but not necessarily regarded as [[God]] in [[Hinduism]] because there are said to be many {{Wiki|creations}}. Instead, he is regarded as a creation of the [[Supreme]] [[God]] or [[Brahman]]. |
− | We are currently believed to be in the 51st year of the present [[Brahma's]] [[life]] and so about 158.7 trillion years have elapsed since the [[birth]] of [[Brahma]]. After [[Brahma's]] "[[death]]", it is necessary that another 100 [[Brahma]] years pass until he is [[reborn]] and the whole creation begins anew. This process is repeated again and again, forever. | + | We are currently believed to be in the 51st year of the {{Wiki|present}} [[Brahma's]] [[life]] and so about 158.7 trillion years have elapsed since the [[birth]] of [[Brahma]]. After [[Brahma's]] "[[death]]", it is necessary that another 100 [[Brahma]] years pass until he is [[reborn]] and the whole creation begins anew. This process is repeated again and again, forever. |
− | [[Brahma's]] day is divided in one thousand cycles ([[Maha Yuga]], or the Great Year). [[Maha Yuga]], during which [[life]], including the [[human]] race appears and then disappears, made of 14 Manvantarahas each has 71 divisions. Each [[Maha Yuga]] lasts for 4,320,000 years. Manvantara is Manu's cycle, the one who gives [[birth]] and governs the [[human]] race. | + | [[Brahma's]] day is divided in one thousand cycles ([[Maha Yuga]], or the Great Year). [[Maha Yuga]], during which [[life]], including the [[human]] race appears and then disappears, made of 14 Manvantarahas each has 71 divisions. Each [[Maha Yuga]] lasts for 4,320,000 years. [[Manvantara]] is Manu's cycle, the one who gives [[birth]] and governs the [[human]] race. |
− | Each [[Maha Yuga]] consists of a series of four shorter [[yugas]], or ages as described earlier. The degree of [[happiness]], {{Wiki|prosperity}} and [[righteousness]] progressively decays as one proceeds from one [[yuga]] to another. Each [[yuga]] is of shorter [[duration]] than the age that preceded it. The current [[Kali Yuga]] ([[Iron Age]]) began at midnight 17 February / 18 February in 3102 BC in the proleptic Julian [[calendar]]. (Year 6898 of the Holocene {{Wiki|Era}}.) | + | Each [[Maha Yuga]] consists of a series of four shorter [[yugas]], or ages as described earlier. The [[degree]] of [[happiness]], {{Wiki|prosperity}} and [[righteousness]] progressively decays as one proceeds from one [[yuga]] to another. Each [[yuga]] is of shorter [[duration]] than the age that preceded it. The current [[Kali Yuga]] ([[Iron Age]]) began at midnight 17 February / 18 February in 3102 BC in the proleptic Julian [[calendar]]. (Year 6898 of the Holocene {{Wiki|Era}}.) |
− | Only some {{Wiki|Puranas}} describe a [[universe]] that is cyclical or oscillating and [[infinite]] in [[time]]. The [[universe]] is described as a [[cosmic]] egg that cycles between expansion and total collapse. It expanded from a [[concentrated]] [[form]] — a point called a [[Bindu]]. The [[universe]], as a living {{Wiki|entity}}, is bound to the [[perpetual]] cycle of [[birth]], [[death]], and [[rebirth]]. | + | Only some {{Wiki|Puranas}} describe a [[universe]] that is cyclical or oscillating and [[infinite]] in [[time]]. The [[universe]] is described as a [[cosmic]] egg that cycles between expansion and total collapse. It expanded from a [[concentrated]] [[form]] — a point called a [[Bindu]]. The [[universe]], as a living {{Wiki|entity}}, is [[bound]] to the [[perpetual]] cycle of [[birth]], [[death]], and [[rebirth]]. |
− | The [[Padma]] [[Purana]] discusses the number of different types of life-forms in the [[universe]]. According to the [[Padma]] [[Purana]], there are 8,400,000 life-form species, 900,000 of which are aquatic ones; 2,000,000 are [[trees]] and [[plants]]; 1,100,000 are small living species, insects and reptiles; 1,000,000 are birds; 3,000,000 are {{Wiki|beasts}} and 400,000 are [[human]] species. | + | The [[Padma]] [[Purana]] discusses the number of different types of life-forms in the [[universe]]. According to the [[Padma]] [[Purana]], there are 8,400,000 life-form {{Wiki|species}}, 900,000 of which are aquatic ones; 2,000,000 are [[trees]] and [[plants]]; 1,100,000 are small living {{Wiki|species}}, {{Wiki|insects}} and {{Wiki|reptiles}}; 1,000,000 are birds; 3,000,000 are {{Wiki|beasts}} and 400,000 are [[human]] {{Wiki|species}}. |
{{Wiki|Multiverse}} in [[Hinduism]] | {{Wiki|Multiverse}} in [[Hinduism]] | ||
The {{Wiki|concept}} of multiverses is mentioned many times in [[Hindu]] {{Wiki|Puranic}} {{Wiki|literature}}, such as in the {{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}}: | The {{Wiki|concept}} of multiverses is mentioned many times in [[Hindu]] {{Wiki|Puranic}} {{Wiki|literature}}, such as in the {{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}}: | ||
− | Every [[universe]] is covered by seven layers — [[earth]], [[water]], [[fire]], [[air]], sky, the total [[energy]] and false [[ego]] — each ten times [[greater]] than the previous one. There are innumerable [[universes]] besides this one, and although they are unlimitedly large, they move about like [[atoms]] in You. Therefore You are called [[unlimited]] ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 6.16.37) | + | Every [[universe]] is covered by seven layers — [[earth]], [[water]], [[fire]], [[air]], sky, the total [[energy]] and false [[ego]] — each ten times [[greater]] than the previous one. There are {{Wiki|innumerable}} [[universes]] besides this one, and although they are unlimitedly large, they move about like [[atoms]] in You. Therefore You are called [[unlimited]] ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 6.16.37) |
− | [[Lord]] [[Śiva]] said: "My dear son, I, [[Lord]] [[Brahmā]] and the other [[devas]], who move within this [[universe]] under the misconception of our greatness, cannot exhibit any [[power]] to compete with the [[Supreme]] [[Personality]] of Godhead, for innumerable [[universes]] and their inhabitants come into [[existence]] and are annihilated by the simple [[direction]] of the [[Lord]]" ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 9.4.56) | + | [[Lord]] [[Śiva]] said: "My dear son, I, [[Lord]] [[Brahmā]] and the other [[devas]], who move within this [[universe]] under the {{Wiki|misconception}} of our greatness, cannot exhibit any [[power]] to compete with the [[Supreme]] [[Personality]] of Godhead, for {{Wiki|innumerable}} [[universes]] and their inhabitants come into [[existence]] and are {{Wiki|annihilated}} by the simple [[direction]] of the [[Lord]]" ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 9.4.56) |
− | After separating the different [[universes]], the gigantic [[universal]] [[form]] of the [[Lord]], which came out of the [[causal]] ocean, the place of appearance for the first puruṣa-avatāra, entered into each of the separate [[universes]], [[desiring]] to lie on the created [[transcendental]] [[water]] ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 2.10.10) | + | After separating the different [[universes]], the gigantic [[universal]] [[form]] of the [[Lord]], which came out of the [[causal]] ocean, the place of [[appearance]] for the first puruṣa-avatāra, entered into each of the separate [[universes]], [[desiring]] to lie on the created [[transcendental]] [[water]] ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 2.10.10) |
− | The number of [[universes]] seems to be uncountable, [[immeasurable]], or incalculable according to the {{Wiki|Puranic}} {{Wiki|literature}}: | + | The number of [[universes]] seems to be uncountable, [[immeasurable]], or [[incalculable]] according to the {{Wiki|Puranic}} {{Wiki|literature}}: |
− | Even though over a period of [[time]] I might count all the [[atoms]] of the [[universe]], I could not count all of My opulences which I [[manifest]] within innumerable [[universes]] ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 11.16.39) | + | Even though over a period of [[time]] I might count all the [[atoms]] of the [[universe]], I could not count all of My opulences which I [[manifest]] within {{Wiki|innumerable}} [[universes]] ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 11.16.39) |
Analogies to describe multiple [[universes]] also [[exist]] in the {{Wiki|Puranic}} {{Wiki|literature}}: | Analogies to describe multiple [[universes]] also [[exist]] in the {{Wiki|Puranic}} {{Wiki|literature}}: | ||
− | What am I, a small creature [[measuring]] seven spans of my own hand? I am enclosed in a potlike [[universe]] composed of {{Wiki|material}} nature, the total {{Wiki|material}} [[energy]], false [[ego]], {{Wiki|ether}}, [[air]], [[water]] and [[earth]]. And what is Your glory? [[Unlimited]] [[universes]] pass through the pores of Your [[body]] just as particles of dust pass through the openings of a screened window ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 10.14.11) | + | What am I, a small creature [[measuring]] seven spans of my [[own]] hand? I am enclosed in a potlike [[universe]] composed of {{Wiki|material}} [[nature]], the total {{Wiki|material}} [[energy]], false [[ego]], {{Wiki|ether}}, [[air]], [[water]] and [[earth]]. And what is Your glory? [[Unlimited]] [[universes]] pass through the pores of Your [[body]] just as {{Wiki|particles}} of dust pass through the openings of a screened window ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 10.14.11) |
− | Because You are [[unlimited]], neither the [[lords]] of [[heaven]] nor even You Yourself can ever reach the end of Your glories. The countless [[universes]], each enveloped in its shell, are compelled by the [[wheel]] of [[time]] to wander within You, like particles of dust blowing about in the sky. The [[śrutis]], following their method of eliminating everything separate from the [[Supreme]], become successful by revealing You as their final conclusion ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 10.87.41) | + | Because You are [[unlimited]], neither the [[lords]] of [[heaven]] nor even You Yourself can ever reach the end of Your glories. The countless [[universes]], each enveloped in its shell, are compelled by the [[wheel]] of [[time]] to wander within You, like {{Wiki|particles}} of dust blowing about in the sky. The [[śrutis]], following their method of eliminating everything separate from the [[Supreme]], become successful by revealing You as their final conclusion ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 10.87.41) |
The layers or [[elements]] covering the [[universes]] are each ten times thicker than the one before, and all the [[universes]] clustered together appear like [[atoms]] in a huge combination ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 3.11.41) | The layers or [[elements]] covering the [[universes]] are each ten times thicker than the one before, and all the [[universes]] clustered together appear like [[atoms]] in a huge combination ({{Wiki|Bhagavata Purana}} 3.11.41) |
Latest revision as of 22:24, 15 September 2015
In Hindu cosmology the universe is, according to Hindu tradition and Vedic cosmology, cyclically created and destroyed.
Description
The Hindu cosmology and timeline is the closest to modern scientific timelines and even more which might indicate that the Big Bang is not the beginning of everything but just the start of the present cycle preceded by an infinite number of universes and to be followed by another infinite number of universes. It also includes an infinite number of universes at one given time.
The Rig Veda questions the origin of the cosmos in: "Neither being (sat) nor non-being was as yet. What was concealed? And where? And in whose protection?…Who really knows? Who can declare it? Whence was it born, and whence came this creation? The devas were born later than this world's creation, so who knows from where it came into existence? None can know from where creation has arisen, and whether he has or has not produced it. He who surveys it in the highest heavens, he alone knows-or perhaps does not know." (Rig Veda 10. 129)
The Rig Veda's view of the cosmos also sees one true divine principle self-projecting as the divine word, Vaak, 'birthing' the cosmos that we know, from the monistic Hiranyagarbha or Golden Womb. The Hiranyagarbha is alternatively viewed as Brahma, the creator who was in turn created by God, or as God (Brahman) himself. The universe is considered to constantly expand since creation and disappear into a thin haze after billions of years. An alternate view is that the universe begins to contract after reaching its maximum expansion limits until it disappears into a fraction of a millimeter. The creation begins anew after billions of years (Solar years) of non-existence.
The puranic view asserts that the universe is created, destroyed, and re-created in an eternally repetitive series of cycles. In Hindu cosmology, a universe endures for about 4,320,000,000 years (one day of Brahma, the creator or kalpa) and is then destroyed by fire or water elements. At this point, Brahma rests for one night, just as long as the day. This process, named pralaya (literally especial dissolution in Sanskrit, commonly translated as Cataclysm), repeats for 100 Brahma years (311 Trillion, 40 Billion Human Years) that represents Brahma's lifespan. Brahma is regarded as a manifestation of Brahman as the creator.
We are currently believed to be in the 51st year of the present Brahma and so about 156 trillion years have elapsed since He was born as Brahma. After Brahma's "death", it is necessary that another 100 Brahma years (311 Trillion, 40 Billion Years) pass until a new Brahma is born and the whole creation begins anew. This process is repeated again and again, forever.
Brahma's day is divided in one thousand cycles (Maha Yuga, or the Great Year). Maha Yuga, during which life, including the human race appears and then disappears, has 71 divisions, each made of 14 Manvantara (1000) years. Each Maha Yuga lasts for 4,320,000 years. Manvantara is Manu's cycle, the one who gives birth and governs the human race. before & after each manvantara there's a sandhikal as long as krutyuga & in that time there is all water on earth. Each Maha Yuga consists of a series of four shorter yugas, or ages. The yugas get progressively worse from a moral point of view as one proceeds from one yuga to another. As a result, each yuga is of shorter duration than the age that preceded it. The current Kali Yuga (Iron Age) began at midnight 17 February / 18 February in 3102 BC in the proleptic Julian calendar (Year 6898 of the Holocene Era.) kalpa=ahoratra of brahma. Space and time are considered to be maya (illusion). What looks like 100 years in the cosmos of Brahma could be thousands of years in other worlds, millions of years in some other worlds and 311 trillion and 40 billion years for our solar system and earth. The life span of Lord Brahma, the creator, is 100 'Brahma-Years'. One day in the life of Brahma is called a Kalpa or 4.32 billion years. Every Kalpa creates 14 Manus one after the other, who in turn manifest and regulate this world. Thus, there are fourteen generations of Manu in each Kalpa. Each Manu's life (Manvantara) consists of 71 Chaturyugas (quartets of Yugas or eras). Each Chaturyuga is composed of four eras or Yugas: Satya, Treta, Dwapara and Kali. if we add all manvantaras(4320000x71x14)as long as 4 chaturyuga will be missing its because sandhikaal.after & before each manvantara so 15 sandhikaal The span of the Satya Yuga is 1,728,000 human years, Treta Yuga is 1,296,000 human years long, the Dwapara Yuga 864,000 human years and the Kali Yuga 432,000 human years. When Manu perishes at the end of his life, Brahma creates the next Manu and the cycle continues until all fourteen Manus and the Universe perish by the end of Bramha's day. When 'night' falls, Brahma goes to sleep for a period of 4.32 billion years, which is a period of time equal one day (of Brahma) and the lives of fourteen Manus. The next 'morning', Brahma creates fourteen additional Manus in sequence just as he has done on the previous 'day'. The cycle goes on for 100 'divine years' at the end of which Brahma perishes and is regenerated. Bramha's entire life equals 311 trillion, 40 billion years. Once Bramha dies there is an equal period of unmanifestation for 311 trillion, 40 billion years, until the next Bramha is created.
The present period is the Kali Yuga or last era in one of the 71 Chaturyugis (set of four Yugas/eras) in the life one of the fourteen Manus. The current Manu is said to be the seventh Manu and his name is Vaivasvat.
According to Aryabhata, the Kali Yuga began in 3102 BC, at the end of the Dvapara Yuga that was marked by the disappearance of Vishnu's Krishna avatar. Aryabhata's date is widely repeated in modern Hinduism.
The beginning of the new Yuga (era) is known as "Yugadi/Ugadi", and is celebrated every year on the first day (Paadyami) of the first month (Chaitramu) of the 12-month annual cycle. But this is a disambiguation for beginning of new year in lunisolar calendar followed by most Hindus. The Ugadi of 1999 begins the year 1921 of the Shalivahana era (5101 Kali Yuga, 1999 AD). The end of the Kali Yuga is 426,899 years from 1921.
Overview of Yugas:
Satya Yuga (Krita Yuga):- 1,728,000 Human years
Treta Yuga:- 1,296,000 Human years
Dwapara Yuga:- 864,000 Human years
Kali Yuga:- 432,000 Human years (5,111 years have passed; 426,889 years remain). Kaliyuga started in 3102 B.C.; CE 2009 corresponds to Kaliyuga year 5,111
Further elaborations from the Vedic texts
Rig Veda
The Nasadiya Sukta of the Rig Veda describes the origin of the universe. The Rig Veda's view of the cosmos also sees one true divine principle self-projecting as the divine word, Vaak, 'birthing' the cosmos that we know, from the monistic Hiranyagarbha or Golden Egg. The Hiranyagarbha is alternatively viewed as Brahma, the creator who was in turn created by God, or as God (Brahman) Himself. The Universe is preserved by Vishnu (The God of Preservation) and destroyed by Shiva (The God of Destruction). These three constitute the holy trinity (Trimurti) of the Hindu religion. Once the Universe has been destroyed by Shiva, Brahma starts the creation once again. This creation-destruction cycle repeats itself almost endlessly as described in the section above on Brahma, Manu and the Yugas.
The Puranas
The later Puranic view asserts that the Universe is created, destroyed, and re-created in an eternally repetitive series of cycles. In Hindu cosmology, a universe endures for about 4,320,000,000 years—one day/Kalpa of Brahma, the creator, and is then destroyed by fire or water elements. At this point, Brahma rests for one night, just as long as the day. This process, named Pralaya (Cataclysm), repeats for 100 Brahma years (311 trillion, 40 billion human years) that represents Brahma's lifespan. Brahma is the creator but not necessarily regarded as God in Hinduism because there are said to be many creations. Instead, he is regarded as a creation of the Supreme God or Brahman.
We are currently believed to be in the 51st year of the present Brahma's life and so about 158.7 trillion years have elapsed since the birth of Brahma. After Brahma's "death", it is necessary that another 100 Brahma years pass until he is reborn and the whole creation begins anew. This process is repeated again and again, forever.
Brahma's day is divided in one thousand cycles (Maha Yuga, or the Great Year). Maha Yuga, during which life, including the human race appears and then disappears, made of 14 Manvantarahas each has 71 divisions. Each Maha Yuga lasts for 4,320,000 years. Manvantara is Manu's cycle, the one who gives birth and governs the human race.
Each Maha Yuga consists of a series of four shorter yugas, or ages as described earlier. The degree of happiness, prosperity and righteousness progressively decays as one proceeds from one yuga to another. Each yuga is of shorter duration than the age that preceded it. The current Kali Yuga (Iron Age) began at midnight 17 February / 18 February in 3102 BC in the proleptic Julian calendar. (Year 6898 of the Holocene Era.)
Only some Puranas describe a universe that is cyclical or oscillating and infinite in time. The universe is described as a cosmic egg that cycles between expansion and total collapse. It expanded from a concentrated form — a point called a Bindu. The universe, as a living entity, is bound to the perpetual cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
The Padma Purana discusses the number of different types of life-forms in the universe. According to the Padma Purana, there are 8,400,000 life-form species, 900,000 of which are aquatic ones; 2,000,000 are trees and plants; 1,100,000 are small living species, insects and reptiles; 1,000,000 are birds; 3,000,000 are beasts and 400,000 are human species.
Multiverse in Hinduism
The concept of multiverses is mentioned many times in Hindu Puranic literature, such as in the Bhagavata Purana:
Every universe is covered by seven layers — earth, water, fire, air, sky, the total energy and false ego — each ten times greater than the previous one. There are innumerable universes besides this one, and although they are unlimitedly large, they move about like atoms in You. Therefore You are called unlimited (Bhagavata Purana 6.16.37)
Lord Śiva said: "My dear son, I, Lord Brahmā and the other devas, who move within this universe under the misconception of our greatness, cannot exhibit any power to compete with the Supreme Personality of Godhead, for innumerable universes and their inhabitants come into existence and are annihilated by the simple direction of the Lord" (Bhagavata Purana 9.4.56)
After separating the different universes, the gigantic universal form of the Lord, which came out of the causal ocean, the place of appearance for the first puruṣa-avatāra, entered into each of the separate universes, desiring to lie on the created transcendental water (Bhagavata Purana 2.10.10)
The number of universes seems to be uncountable, immeasurable, or incalculable according to the Puranic literature:
Even though over a period of time I might count all the atoms of the universe, I could not count all of My opulences which I manifest within innumerable universes (Bhagavata Purana 11.16.39)
Analogies to describe multiple universes also exist in the Puranic literature:
What am I, a small creature measuring seven spans of my own hand? I am enclosed in a potlike universe composed of material nature, the total material energy, false ego, ether, air, water and earth. And what is Your glory? Unlimited universes pass through the pores of Your body just as particles of dust pass through the openings of a screened window (Bhagavata Purana 10.14.11)
Because You are unlimited, neither the lords of heaven nor even You Yourself can ever reach the end of Your glories. The countless universes, each enveloped in its shell, are compelled by the wheel of time to wander within You, like particles of dust blowing about in the sky. The śrutis, following their method of eliminating everything separate from the Supreme, become successful by revealing You as their final conclusion (Bhagavata Purana 10.87.41)
The layers or elements covering the universes are each ten times thicker than the one before, and all the universes clustered together appear like atoms in a huge combination (Bhagavata Purana 3.11.41)