Significance of Millions of years
The text explains that the term "millions of years" in the Purana signifies the vast duration of Mahadeva's meditation following his consumption of Usanas. This indicates an extraordinary length of time dedicated to spiritual practice, emphasizing the significance of meditation in achieving deeper states of consciousness. The mention of Mahadeva reflects the profound connection between divine beings and the commitment required for spiritual enlightenment.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Millions of years'
In Hinduism, "Millions of years" signifies the vast time span of Mahadeva's meditation following his consumption of Usanas, highlighting the profound and enduring nature of divine contemplation.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Indicates the extensive duration of Mahadeva's meditation after consuming Usanas.[1]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) An extremely long duration of time in which no individual would be able to fully describe the pastimes of Lord Caitanya that occurred within a single day.[2]
The concept of Millions of years in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Millions of years" signifies an extensive timeframe, indicating significant delays or gradual advancements in reaching specific objectives, emphasizing the enormity of geological or evolutionary processes.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Millions of years of penance will not grant salvation to a coward, reinforcing the idea that bravery and courage are essential for spiritual progress and liberation.[3] (2) Indicates an extremely long period of time, suggesting a substantial delay or a slow progression in the achievement of a particular goal.[4]
Classical concept of 'Millions of years'
From: The Book of the Dead
(1) A vast expanse of time during which some endure in the underworld, underscoring the concept of eternity and the enduring nature of existence beyond life.[5] (2) A concept related to the seer and path of Horus, signifying eternity and power.[6] (3) Millions of Years represents a vast span of time, symbolizing longevity and endurance, with life and names enduring for millions of years.[7] (4) Millions of years are associated with the speaker, who declares himself lord of millions of years and has made his nest in the uttermost parts of heaven.[8] (5) Horus is given millions of years, and the crown of millions of years is given to his son, and loins are made strong for millions of years, and is described as the lord of.[9]
From: Egyptian Magic
(1) This is what the figure of a god with raised hands and arms typifies, supported by a pair of horns.[10]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) It is the time when a throne becomes empty, indicating a moment of transition or absence.[11]
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) Thoth returned to the Boat of Millions of Years after the child Horus returned to life, and the boat proceeded on its majestic course.[12]
From: The Book of Gates
(1) An extensive duration for which offerings are provided in the great funeral hall, highlighting the enduring nature of the described practices.[13]