Significance of Brahmanda
Brahmanda, a term rooted in Hindu cosmology, refers to the concept of the cosmic egg or universe. It is depicted as a created entity that encompasses all of existence, often represented metaphorically in various texts like the Puranas. In the context of different philosophical traditions, such as Jainism and Vaishnavism, Brahmanda signifies not only the totality of the cosmos but also the intricate relationships between its residents and divine beings. This understanding highlights the vast, systemic nature of creation within Hindu philosophy.
Synonyms: Universe, Cosmos, Macrocosm, Infinity, Creation, World
In Dutch: Brahmanda; In German: Brahmanda; In Finnish: Brahmanda; In Spanish: Brahmanda
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Brahmanda'
Brahmanda in Hinduism symbolizes the cosmic egg or universe, encompassing all creation derived from Prakriti-Purusha and manifesting over countless dimensions. It reflects connections among realms, divine mercy, and the structural importance of the universe in spiritual practices.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The cosmos or universe, encompassing all creation within it.[1] (2) The universe or cosmos in the context of Hindu philosophy, encompassing all beings created by Brahma.[2] (3) The cosmic egg or universe, a concept representing the entirety of creation.[3] (4) The cosmic egg or universe, which is the manifestation of the creation and contains various realms and deities.[4] (5) The multiple universes that exist within the Maha Virat, each containing its own Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesha.[5]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The cosmic egg or universe that Ganga pierced as she began her descent.[6]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The cosmic egg or universe in Hindu cosmology; often representing the vastness of existence within which the soul resides.[7]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) the cosmic egg that is the universe consisting of the fourteen planetary systems[8] (2) the universe, measuring 500 million yojanas[9] (3) of universes[10] (4) Universes in the cosmological context, where different Brahmas rule with varying numbers of heads.[11] (5) The cosmic universe that is examined within the context of divine mercy and the relative positions of its residents.[12]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The Sanskrit term for the universe, indicating the entirety of physical existence and its complexities.[13]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) The concept of the 'world egg' in Hindu philosophy, enshrined within the Harmika of the stupa, symbolizing the universe.[14] (2) A Purana that discusses architectural matters along with others.[15] (3) A term referring to the cosmic egg or universe in Hindu cosmology.[16] (4) A Purana text that includes references to cosmology, history, and architecture of the Indian tradition.[17]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The macrocosm, representing the universe in spiritual practices.[18] (2) Brahma's egg or the macrocosm, representing the entire universe as a contained entity.[19] (3) The macrocosm or Brahma's egg, symbolizing the universe and all of creation within a single unit.[20]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) The universe or the cosmic sphere, representing the greater reality within which all exist.[21] (2) The Universe, which is illuminated by the radiance of the Shri-Parameshvari.[22]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The term for the universe which encompasses all existence and is symbolically represented through various forms.[23]
Jain concept of 'Brahmanda'
In Jainism, Brahmanda symbolizes a cosmic egg that encompasses the universe, analogous to a king's mythological authority, representing the notion of creation and the structure of the cosmos.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The legend or concept of a cosmic egg, a created entity that holds the universe, resembling the King's mythological power.[24]
The concept of Brahmanda in local and regional sources
Brahmanda, meaning "Brahma's egg," describes the universe in Hindu texts, suggesting an oval or spherical shape. It symbolizes the cosmic universe, overflowing as the representation of Lord Vishnu expands.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A Sanskrit term used in Hindu texts that refers to the universe, with 'anda' implying an egg-like or oval shape.[25] (2) The cosmic universe, which becomes overfilled as the young man, representing Lord Vishnu, grows in size and presence.[26]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is a Sanskrit word meaning "Brahma’s egg," which is used in the Puranas to describe the universe, offering a clue to its shape, which could be oval or spherical.[27]