Significance of Universe
Synonyms: Cosmos, Creation, Macrocosm, All that exists, Space, World.
In Dutch: Universum; In German: Universum; In Finnish: Universumi; In Spanish: Universo
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Universe'
In Buddhism, the Universe encompasses various realms of existence where beings reflect on dharmas, a comprehensive cosmological framework of multiple dimensions, diverse worlds, and the vast space housing all matter, energy, and life.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Different realms of existence where beings analyze dharmas and their implications for good and bad actions, suggesting varied states of spiritual awareness.[1] (2) Refers to the entirety of existence as understood in the cosmological framework, where multiple dimensions and realms exist.[2] (3) Diverse realms or worlds, which can be pure or impure, existing in the vastness of Buddhist cosmology, each inhabited by various beings.[3]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The vast, encompassing space that contains all matter, energy, and living entities.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Universe'
In Hinduism, the Universe encompasses the entirety of creation—both physical and metaphysical—represented through Lord Hari's actions, Brahma's mastery, and interconnectedness with Brahman, embodying spiritual and material realms within divine influence.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The vast expanse that encompasses all of existence, including material and spiritual realms.[5] (2) jagat, representing the entirety of creation around Her[6] (3) refers to all of creation, considered in totality[7] (4) the realm or domains over which Lord Krsna is master, referred to as 'jagatam' in Sanskrit.[8] (5) The vast and encompassing realm mentioned in relation to the existence and actions of beings.[9]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The entirety of existence, which Mother Shaci is identified as the mother of.[10] (2) The vast cosmos that encompasses all beings and existence, wherein Krishna is regarded as central.[11] (3) Represents the totality of existence, encompassing all beings and entities.[12] (4) The total creation where devotees seek the favor of the Supreme Lord and strive for spiritual realization.[13] (5) A vast expanse of space that includes all matter, energy, planets, stars, and galaxies, often referring to a specific realm or reality.[14]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Refers to the entirety of creation, encompassing all beings and entities, under divine control.[15] (2) Refers to all of existence as created and governed by the divine.[16]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The vast expanse that includes all matter, energy, planets, stars, galaxies, and the physical laws that govern them.[17] (2) The totality of everything that exists, including space, time, matter, and energy, created by Brahman.[18] (3) Refers to existence as discussed in the context of the verse, specifically what is understood by the term 'this' in the text.[19] (4) The universe is the totality of existence that includes all beings and processes, which are said to be interconnected with Brahman.[20] (5) Refers to 'loka', which consists of earth and related elements.[21]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The universe is referred to as the totality of existence, which, according to the text, is defined by the presence of The Self.[22] (2) The vast and encompassing reality that includes all matter, energy, and the dimensions of space and time.[23] (3) The totality of space, time, matter, and energy that includes everything that exists.[24] (4) It refers to the totality of existence, which ultimately, according to the text, is the Atman (self or soul).[25]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The broader context in which the Being transcends and has been described as having a material cause.[26] (2) The vast cosmos that is imbued with the Gayatri's essence, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all existence as revealed in the teachings.[27]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The realm that is perceived with distinct names, forms, and activities, which is ultimately derived from the singular essence of Being.[28] (2) The entirety of existence and all creations, which is said to emerge from the Subtle Essence, as elaborated by the father in his teachings.[29]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The entirety of existence that Vayu claims he has the power to influence or affect, showcasing the vastness of his abilities.[30]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara Bhashya (Sitarama)
(1) The totality of existence that is absorbed back into the whole Brahman, emphasizing the concept of unity in non-duality.[31]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The universe encompasses all existing things, both transient and eternal, which are subject to the processes of creation, subsistence, and destruction.[32]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The totality of existence that is sustained by Shiva in various forms.[33] (2) The entirety of existence that reacts to the events of war between the Devas and Daityas.[34] (3) The entirety of creation, encompassing all physical and metaphysical entities.[35] (4) The three worlds that were created by Bhava (Shiva), from whom various gods emerged.[36]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Encompasses everything that exists, with the Sun being depicted as central to its functioning and illumination.[37] (2) All-encompassing reference to the totality of creation as influenced by divine forces.[38]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The universe is described as a creation of the understanding.[39]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The totality of existence and all beings, both mobile and immobile.[40]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The vast cosmos created and governed by divine forces, integral to many Hindu beliefs.[41]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Refers to all of creation, mentioned in the context of being identified with Atma or Brahman.[42]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The universe represents the entirety of existence, where Time plays a crucial role in regulating events and their timing.[43]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The totality represented in the Full-offering, as Agni is appeased by the All.[44]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) In the context of Dvaita Vedanta, the universe is described as prapanca, which is constructed from the five fundamental differences.[45]
The concept of Universe in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Universe" signifies the boundless realm of all matter and energy, along with a spiritual dimension where God's presence is acknowledged, reflecting both physical and metaphysical interpretations of existence.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The vast, endless expanse that encompasses all existing matter and energy, including beings, light, and cosmic phenomena.[46] (2) A collection of beings that together create the diversity of existence, without being a singular entity.[47] (3) The vast expanse that encompasses all of existence, which is questioned in terms of its origin and purpose.[48] (4) The entirety of existence, which the speaker claims ownership of and expresses love for all mankind.[49] (5) A vast concept encompassing all existence, as interpreted by the speaker in line with the sky.[50]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The all-encompassing expanse where God’s presence and influence are recognized and praised.[51]