The Divine Manifestation of Brahman in Hindu Philosophy
The concept of the universe as a manifestation of the divine essence, Brahman, is central to Hindu philosophy, particularly within the tradition of Advaita Vedanta. This article explores the root of this idea, the implications of belonging to Maya, and how different philosophical traditions interpret the nature of reality.
Exploring the Universes and Brahman
The apparent manifestation of the universe, often referred to as Maya, is deeply rooted in the Hindu understanding of reality. In Advaita Vedanta, Brahman is considered the ultimate unchanging reality, with the universe being an expression or manifestation of this divine essence. However, the relationship between Brahman and the universe is more nuanced and complex than a simple binary of existence vs. non-existence.
The Role of Krishna and Maya
It is often suggested that everything in the universe is a manifestation of the divine energies, specifically those associated with Lord Krishna. This perspective is rooted in the belief that Lord Krishna is the highest manifestation of the divine, and His energy permeates and sustains the universe. However, this approach is more aligned with Vaishnavism and less with Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the indivisibility of Brahman.
The Sustenance of Brahman
The Vaishnava Acharyas provide a compelling rationale for the relationship between Brahman and the universe. They explain that since the universe depends on Brahman for its sustenance, it can be said to be made up of Brahman, just as the senses depend on the prana (life air) for their functioning. According to the Chandogya Upanishad, the wise recognize the senses not as speech, eyes, ears, or mind, but as prana, which becomes all the senses. Similarly, the Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita offer compelling examples of this interdependence:
“O King, the Supreme Lord is one and the twenty-fifth element. The jīva is someone else. Because the Supreme Lord is situated within the jīva, the sages see both as one.”
“You pervade everything, hence You are everything.”
The Vishnu Purana: A Divine Commentary
The implication of these verses is further elucidated in the Vishnu Purana. Lord Vishnu is described as the luminaries, planets, forests, directions, rivers, oceans, and everything that exists and does not exist. This verse, sarva khalvida brahma (All this is verily Brahman), encapsulates the idea that Brahman is the ultimate reality underlying all phenomena:
“Lord Viu is the luminaries, Lord Viu is the planets, Lord Viu is the forests, the directions, the rivers, the oceans, and everything that exists and does not exist, O best of brāhmaas.”
The Nature of Reality
While the universe is not identical to Brahman, it is sustained by it. This relationship reflects a profound understanding of the interplay between the divine and the material world. In Hindu philosophy, the idea that everything in the universe is a manifestation of Brahman encourages a spiritual and philosophical inquiry into the nature of reality, the source of existence, and the experiences of the self within the world.
Conclusion
The concept that the universe is a manifestation of Brahman, while complex and multifaceted, is a cornerstone of Hindu thought. Understanding this relationship requires a deep dive into the various philosophical texts and the endless wisdom they offer. From Advaita Vedanta to Vaishnavism, the explorations into the divine nature of the universe help us appreciate the richness and depth of Hindu philosophy.