Vedic Description: Creation of the Universe

[Bhava dasa (ACBSP)]

In Vaishnavism, the creation of the universe is described primarily through the Puranas, especially the Bhagavata Purana (Śrīmad Bhāgavatam) and the Vishnu Purana. The process of creation is cyclical and is governed by Maha Vishnu, who expands into various forms to manifest and maintain the universe. Here’s an overview of the creation process according to Vaishnavism:

1. The Supreme Source – Maha Vishnu

Maha Vishnu (Karanodakasayi Vishnu) lies in the Causal Ocean (Karana Jal). From his breathing, innumerable universes emerge in seed form and expand.

2. Garbhodakasayi Vishnu – Entering Each Universe

For each universe, Maha Vishnu expands into Garbhodakasayi Vishnu, who rests on the Garbhodaka Ocean inside that universe. From his navel emerges a lotus, from which Lord Brahma is born.

3. Brahma – The Secondary Creator

Brahma, empowered by Lord Vishnu, creates the planetary systems, living beings, and elements based on instructions received through the heart (divine inspiration). His creation follows three stages:
• Primary creation (Sarga): Formation of the basic material elements.
• Secondary creation (Visarga): Arrangement of species, planets, and time cycles.
• Manu’s Administration: Each cosmic cycle is governed by Manus, who regulate dharma (righteousness).

4. Sustenance and Dissolution
• Sustenance (Sthiti): Lord Vishnu, as Ksirodakasayi Vishnu, resides in every atom and in the heart of all living beings (as Paramatma) to maintain order.
• Dissolution (Pralaya): After a cosmic cycle, Shiva (powered by Vishnu) destroys the universe, and all souls merge back into Maha Vishnu, awaiting the next creation.

The Cyclical Nature of Creation

Vaishnavism teaches that creation, maintenance, and destruction occur in repeating cycles, just like seasons. The material universe is temporary, but the spiritual world (Vaikuntha) is eternal and beyond this cycle.

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