Significance of Pralaya
Pralaya, in Vaishnavism and other Indian philosophical systems, signifies cosmic annihilation or dissolution, marking the end of a universe's cycle. It encapsulates the transition from a state of creation back to rest, where all existence merges back into its origin, often represented by water. This concept encompasses various interpretations, including emotional states where consciousness diminishes. Ultimately, Pralaya refers to a significant period of destruction and rebirth in Hindu cosmology, reflecting the cyclical nature of existence and divine activity.
Synonyms: Cataclysm, Destruction, Devastation, Dissolution, Annihilation, End of the world, Ruin, Calamity, Disaster, Deluge
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Pralaya'
Pralaya in Hinduism represents a cosmic dissolution, where the universe merges into the Unmanifested Brahman, marking the cyclical end of creation and leading to eventual rebirth, reflecting profound states of awareness and consciousness.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The dissolution or destruction phase in the cosmic cycle, where the universe returns to a state of non-manifestation.[1] (2) A term referring to the potential dissolution of the world, which concerns the deities after the wrath of the Para Shakti.[2] (3) The great dissolution or destruction of the universe, after which a new cycle of creation begins.[3] (4) The period of general dissolution when Karmas and entities merge into Maya, marking a cycle of destruction and re-emergence.[4] (5) The cycle of destruction or dissolution in the universe, leading back to the original state before creation.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The concept of annihilation or dissolution in the cyclical nature of existence, as understood in Hindu cosmology.[6] (2) The vast sea or state of dissolution where all worlds are unified within the Lord's belly.[7] (3) The impending destruction or annihilation, which is referred to as being imminent.[8] (4) A catastrophic event of destruction that occurs when Lord Shiva closes his eyes, leading to the flooding of the world.[9] (5) The time of cosmic dissolution, during which Mahakalavana is said to remain unperishable.[10]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The state of dissolution or destruction in the cycle of creation and destruction.[11] (2) The dissolution or destruction of the universe, typically at the end of a cosmic cycle.[12] (3) The dissolution or destruction of the universe at the end of a Kalpa.[13]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The cataclysmic end of the world marked by the inundation of oceans and destruction of the three worlds.[14] (2) The term for dissolution, characterized as occasional during Brahma's sleep, when all existence is withdrawn.[15]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The period of dissolution or destruction in Hindu cosmology, which is depicted in the Matsya Purana as leading to the great flood from which Manu is saved.[16]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The destruction or dissolution of the universe after a cycle of creation.[17]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A state of dissolution or great destruction in which the usual forms and identities cease to exist temporarily.[18] (2) A state of dissolution or cosmic rest where Prakriti unites with Brahman, existing in a subtle, undifferentiated form.[19] (3) A term denoting a great dissolution or end, during which the act of breathing was said to exist prior to any subsequent creation.[20]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The time when all Jivas return to the Imperishable and the cycle of creation concludes.[21] (2) The cosmic dissolution at the end of Brahma's life cycle, leading to liberation.[22]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The dissolution of the universe that occurs at the end of a cosmic cycle, leading to a re-creation phase.[23]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The state of dissolution or merging of the universe into the Unmanifested Brahman.[24]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The state of dissolution or cosmic sleep where all Jivas are inactive, showcasing the difference in consciousness between Jivas and the Lord.[25]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The state of dissolution or cosmic sleep in which normal operations of consciousness are suspended, affecting the jiva differently.[26]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The state of dissolution or cessation, where inquiry into the absorption of activities takes place.[27]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The cosmic dissolution or period of inactivity where Brahman is described as sleeping on the Ocean of Milk.[28]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The cosmic deluge or dissolution where the Lord's creative activity transitions back to a state of rest.[29]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Loss of consciousness or a state of falling motionless, arising from various emotional experiences, both happy and distressful.[30]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Pralaya refers to cosmic annihilation that occurs at the end of Brahma's day.[31]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The state of dissolution or cosmic dissolution where creation returns to an undifferentiated state, a concept shared across various Indian philosophical systems.[32] (2) The state of dissolution or dissolution of the universe, raised in discussions about consciousness and reality.[33]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Refers to the great dissolution or flood of destruction in Hindu cosmology.[34]
From: Nyayakusumanjali of Udayana (study)
(1) A term indicating the end of creation or dissolution, marking a significant transition before new creation begins.[35]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) In the context of emotions, it refers to a diminution of awareness due to overwhelming happiness.[36]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The time of dissolution in which the Veda is believed to revert to a unified state before being divided again with renewed creation.[37]