Significance of Cosmic eggs
The Cosmic egg is a rich metaphor across various traditions, particularly in Vaishnavism and other philosophical systems. It symbolizes the creation or foundation of the universe, from which life and elements arise. This concept encapsulates the entirety of existence, indicating a primordial state containing divine beings and denoting the universe's cyclical nature. Representing the universe's origin, the Cosmic egg encompasses all forms of life and is often linked to significant cosmic events and metaphysical structures.
Synonyms: Primordial egg, Cosmic orb
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Cosmic eggs'
The Cosmic Egg in Hinduism symbolizes the universe's origin and structure, representing creation through a myriad of metaphors, including the primordial essence from which existence emerges and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) Cosmic entities existing at the root of every hair of Vishnu, representing the vastness and creation in the universe.[1] (2) A concept symbolizing the universe, often associated with potential and creation.[2] (3) A metaphorical concept referring to the entire creation enveloped in the divine consciousness.[3] (4) Symbolic representation of the universe, referring to the spheres that are infused with cosmic energy.[4] (5) Metaphorical representations of creation and the universe's origin in different cycles or Kalpas.[5]
From: The Linga Purana
(1) Symbolic representations of creation in Hindu mythology often associated with the universe's origins.[6] (2) A concept describing the insentient Prakriti that is activated to create the universe by the sentient principle.[7] (3) Symbolic representation of the universe created from all elements, embedded in waters and encircled by different elements.[8] (4) A primordial entity mentioned in the text from which the worlds originate, symbolizing the universe.[9] (5) A symbolic representation of the universe's origin and structure, embodying the multifaceted nature of existence.[10]
From: The Shiva Purana
(1) A metaphorical space of creation that is purified through various stages up to Rudra.[11] (2) The entirety of creation, symbolizing the universe as completed by Brahma at Shiva's behest.[12] (3) The structure that envelops the universe, surrounded by various elements.[13] (4) The metaphysical structure that contains all worlds and is the womb of creation, presided over by Purusha.[14] (5) An initial state of creation from which various principles and forms arise, originally insentient until endowed with sentience by Vishnu.[15]
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) The metaphysical shell of the universe that was cracked by Lord Vishnu's toe, allowing waters to rush in.[16] (2) The primordial state from which the universe and all creations emerged, as represented in the form of the Virat Purusha.[17] (3) A concept representing the universe's creation, containing all worlds and beings within it.[18] (4) A metaphorical representation of the universe and its configurations.[19] (5) The primordial entity from which the universe is created, associated with the Supreme Man.[20]
From: The Brahmanda Purana
(1) A mystical representation of the universe where worlds exist with various characteristics.[21] (2) Symbolizes the origin from which Brahma is born and the universe is created.[22] (3) Symbolically refers to the universe encapsulated in a single form, from which all creation emerges.[23] (4) A structure consisting of fourteen worlds arranged vertically.[24] (5) A metaphorical representation of the universe, including various worlds and regions, each with unique properties.[25]
From: The Brahma Purana
(1) A metaphor representing creation, encompassing all elements of existence, used to highlight Krishna's greatness.[26] (2) A reference made by Vishnu in the context of creation, symbolizing the entirety of existence represented alongside earth and oceans.[27] (3) Represents the entirety of creation, including the seven worlds, which is enveloped by water during re-absorption.[28] (4) A symbolic representation of the universe envisioned by the sage within his belly.[29] (5) The detailed description of the universe's structure, encapsulated by layers of elements like water, fire, wind, and ether.[30]
From: The Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A term describing the nature of the universe as explained by Parashara.[31] (2) A conceptual model representing the universe, enclosed by seven layers, each ten times larger than the one within.[32] (3) The metaphysical shell that encompasses the universe, as mentioned in the cosmic context of the description.[33] (4) The structure that contains the whole universe, formed from the combination of elements and senses.[34] (5) The primordial form from which the universe and creation are said to emerge, associated with the appearance of Hiranyagarbha.[35]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) A metaphor for the universe, which encompasses all existence and is governed by Vishnu's will.[36] (2) A metaphorical representation of the universe, which was not present before the creation process initiated by Narayana.[37] (3) The metaphorical representation of the universe from which beings and worlds originated as created by the Lotus-seated one.[38]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A philosophical concept representing the universe's birth and the source of all existence.[39] (2) Symbolic representation relating to the universe and its cyclical existence, filled with the tonic beverage described by the guardians.[40] (3) A symbolic term representing the universe, where various beings like Devas and Daityas reside and interact.[41]
From: The Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A mythological concept referring to the origin from which the universe and Rakshasas emerged.[42]
From: The Markandeya Purana
(1) The metaphor for the universe that was conceived and housed within the egg form, as elaborated in the text.[43]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A theoretical construct described as the origin of all beings, which is formed through the combination and conjunction of elements after being rendered tripartite.[44] (2) A concept referring to the primordial source from which creation unfolds, linked to the configuration of the universe and individual beings.[45]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Symbolizes the universe within which Brahman resides, representing both the material and spiritual realms.[46]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The metaphorical sphere within which all objects and knowledge are contained, beyond which Jivas cannot pervade.[47]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) A metaphorical representation of the universe's embryonic state.[48]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A metaphorical representation of the universe during its initial creation phase before splitting into two parts.[49]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A metaphorical representation of the universe that contains the divine beings such as Piraman, Aran, and others.[50] (2) A metaphorical reference to the creation or foundation of the universe, from which life and elements emerged, as mentioned in the text.[51]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) brahmanda; a metaphor for the entire universe, comprised of planetary systems.[52]
From: Matangalila and Hastyayurveda (study)
(1) A primordial entity from which creation occurs according to certain texts and myths mentioned in the narrative.[53]
The concept of 'Cosmic eggs' in local and regional sources
The Cosmic Egg signifies a primordial entity in Tibetan mythology, symbolizing the universe's origin and creation, closely tied to the Bonpo religion, contrasting with Buddhist narratives in explaining the emergence of life and deities.
From: Tibet (Myth, Religion and History)
(1) A primordial entity believed to give rise to the universe and all beings within Tibetan cosmology.[54] (2) A mythical structure from which the first beings, including gods and goddesses, emerged according to Tibetan myth.[55] (3) An ancient native mythological version of the origin of the universe and life, contrasting with established Buddhist narratives.[56] (4) Mythical concepts representing the origins of gods, demons, and humans, which are created from the natural elements.[57] (5) A mythological element mentioned in some sources regarding the origin of the universe and the Bonpo gods, signifying creation and divinity.[58]