Significance of Universe
Synonyms: Cosmos, Space, Creation, Macrocosm, World, Existence, Entirety, Firmament
In Dutch: Universum; In German: Universum; In Swedish: Universum; In Finnish: Universumi; In Spanish: Universo; In Portugese: Universo; In Italian: Universo; In Malay: Alam semesta; In French: Univers; In Polish: Wszechświat
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 the cosmos, including multiple dimensions and realms. It is a space for visualization, varied states of awareness, and diverse worlds. It is also a place where beings experience suffering, truth, and the nature of existence.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The universes, as numerous as the sands of the Ganges, are mentioned in the context of beings in the three bad destinies.[1] (2) These are used in an analogy involving the scattering of dust to illustrate vast numbers, with the Buddha questioning whether they can be calculated.[2] (3) The text illustrates the vastness of beings by stating that if all the "universes" (lokadhatu) of the ten directions formed a single body of water, the number of beings would still not be exhausted.[3] (4) According to the provided information, a universe with a Buddha allows beings to leave the prison of the threefold world, while universes without a Buddha lack this opportunity.[4] (5) These are as numerous as the sands of the Ganges, with the wish that the blind see, the deaf hear, madmen recover, the naked receive clothing, and the hungry and thirsty be satisfied.[5]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) The great cloud comes up in this wide universe over all grasses, shrubs, herbs, trees of various species and kind, and covers the wide universe to pour down its rain.[6]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The vast, encompassing space that contains all matter, energy, and living entities.[7]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Contains three distinct Realms of existence, each with its own characteristics and levels of sensory and mental experience.[8]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The universe is mentioned in the text as part of the questions, specifically, about its everlasting nature, or whether it has an end.[9]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) This is where the truth flows in and fills the heart, encompassing all beings.[10]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) Universe refers to the cosmos or the entire world, which, in certain practices, becomes the object of visualization, as seen in the practice of visualizing the entire universe in the provided text.[11] (2) The creation of the universe is mentioned in the context of de Guignes's interpretation of The Sutra of Forty-two Chapters, with him translating a sentence in the sutra that relates to the creation of the universe.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Universe'
In Hinduism, the Universe is the vast cosmos created and governed by divine forces. It represents the totality of existence, encompassing all matter, energy, and realms, from the physical to the metaphysical. The Universe is subject to cycles of creation, destruction, and transformation, ultimately merging with the ultimate reality, Brahman.
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The universe experiences bliss and love generated by Krishna, who is attractive and engages in playful activities.[13] (2) Universe is what Baladeva threatens to smash, demonstrating the magnitude of his power and the potential for widespread destruction if he were to carry out his threat.[14] (3) The universe contains all the jivas who praise and serve the Lord, emphasizing His dominion over cosmic beings.[15] (4) The text refers to new universes, old universes and the protectors of the universe.[16] (5) The universes are inhabited by many Brahmas who praised the Narayana forms of the Supreme Brahman.[17]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The universe is presented as a creation for which the speaker holds multiple parental and foundational roles, including father, mother, support, and grandsire.[18] (2) The universe is the recipient of Gauracandra's life and soul, demonstrating that the universe depends on Gauracandra for its existence.[19] (3) The covering of the **universe** was pierced by the sound of sankirtana, which indicates that the sound was very powerful and far-reaching.[20] (4) The divine being is described as the life and soul of the entire universe, highlighting the all-encompassing presence and vital importance to all of existence.[21] (5) The essential and vital force, representing the core and essence of all existence within the entirety of creation.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The universe is described as being entirely flooded with water, creating a precarious situation for the earth-goddess seeking a place to be put down.[23] (2) Universe is a vast expanse illuminated by a divine lamp, dispelling darkness and ignorance, bringing enlightenment and knowledge to every corner of creation.[24] (3) The universes are objects that Ganga purifies, indicating her role in cleansing and sanctifying vast expanses of existence, according to the verse.[25] (4) It is maintained by the Supreme Personality of Godhead through empowered incarnations, according to the verse.[26] (5) The universes are noted, with the divine figure being the creator, auspiciousness, home, and enchanter, indicating a pervasive influence and control.[27]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Universe is spanned by the munificent Lord, highlighting the Lord's vast power and presence.[28] (2) It is described as vast and water-bound, brought into existence by the divine being, along with the primordial matter that gives rise to worldly pleasures.[29] (3) It constitutes His very body, which He is bound to sustain and protect from destruction.[30] (4) The universe is the creation of the Lord, who acts as the Material, Instrumental, and Operative Cause, transforming Himself into worlds of forms and names.[31]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Refers to the entirety of creation, encompassing all beings and entities, under divine control.[32] (2) Refers to all of existence as created and governed by the divine.[33]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The universe was once submerged under an all-spreading ocean, a cataclysmic event during which Vishnu took a boar form.[34] (2) The universe, along with creatures and gods, was created by Brahma on the lotus at Narayana's command.[35] (3) It behoves you to do that by which the eternal Earth, the stay of the universe, may not suffer deterioration, according to the text.[36] (4) Lord Hari is the master of the universe and the preceptor of the world, with the emblem of Garuda on his flag.[37] (5) The Rishis and the Gods began to worship the great Omnipotent Vishnu, thus gone to sleep for the creation of this.[38]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The universe was described as being under the control of fate, not free, according to Yudhishthira's contemplation.[39] (2) The universe is the handiwork of Krishna, and he is its soul, from which everything has sprung.[40] (3) The great Vishnu is the first of all the universe, signifying his supreme cosmic position.[41] (4) This perceived reality has been declared in the Vedas to be a consequence of Ignorance or Delusion, influencing the Soul's perceptions.[42] (5) All this universe was well differentiated from Knowledge, suggesting that the entirety of existence originated from that singular, ultimate principle.[43]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The Universe is created and destroyed by Brahma in every Kalpa, according to the Lord's order.[44] (2) The creation that is being discussed, along with the qualities that influence it and their interactions.[45] (3) The Universe is a world that Brahma creates, Vishnu preserves, and Maheshvara destroys during the Pralaya time, all through the power of the Devi.[46] (4) The Universe, with its elements, is created, preserved, and will be destroyed by the Goddess.[47] (5) This is what Yama destroys at all times, and because of this, he is named Kala, signifying his power and influence.[48]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The Universe is described as the production of our desires, originating from the entity of God and expanding into an illusory cosmos formed from non-entity.[49] (2) The universe is described as worlds linked together in a chain, lying within the limits of the ten sides, and being but One Brahma only, according to Vasishtha's observations.[50] (3) According to the text, there exists an extensive country somewhere in this universe, characterized by a spacious concavity capable of holding thousands of worlds.[51] (4) It is described as immense and boundless, with the sun and moon revolving as waves over the earth.[52] (5) This is said to reside in the universal soul and to continue in all times, with the mind described as the painter that draws the picture of it in an empty space, and also being considered void.[53]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Universes shine in the Jnana-sun and are compared to atoms relative to its rays; they arise in an infinite series deeper and deeper within Brahman.[54] (2) The universe is shown to be a manifestation of Samkalpa, and furthermore, these manifestations are ultimately revealed to be nothing other than Chit itself, according to the author's demonstration.[55] (3) The universe is the objective manifestation of the mind, representing the external reality that the mind perceives and interacts with.[56] (4) In the context of the narrative, the Universe is a manifestation of Paramatma, the Self-Consciousness, along with Jiva and Ishvara, despite appearing different from them.[57] (5) The universe is related to the origin of the mind, and the fluctuating mind is identified as the universe. It is through efforts that the mind can assume the shape of the universe.[58]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The universe is considered Vishnu's intellectual form, and from this form proceeds the subtile form, this world, with Vishnu being all subtile elements, elementary beings, and the subtile principle called soul within them.[59] (2) The universe's origin and nature are inquired about by Maitreya, seeking to understand its substance, how it was, and how it will be.[60]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The universe is described as the embodiment of the lord and god, and the source of creation, continuance, and dissolution, with the votary seeking salvation.[61] (2) The universe is where the Sun is considered a guide, as mentioned in the Mantra recited during solar worship.[62] (3) The creation that emanated from Hari, and the subject of the meditation of Rudra, and which is protected by Hari, and in whom the world is dissolved.[63]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The universe was filled with joy after Shumbha was killed by Ambika, and it became placid after the evil-souled demon was slain.[64] (2) This is a thing that is fashioned from the two forms of the Sun, Agni, and Soma, and it is something that the Sun is said to be the lord of.[65] (3) Encompasses everything that exists, with the Sun being depicted as central to its functioning and illumination.[66] (4) All-encompassing reference to the totality of creation as influenced by divine forces.[67]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) This refers to the totality of existence, which the deity traversed during a specific event.[68]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The Universe, encompassing all sentient and non-sentient beings, is declared by Scripture to be the body of the highest Self.[69] (2) The 'universe' is considered the heart of the described form, with additional characteristics such as fire as the head, the sun and moon as the eyes, the regions as the ears, the Vedas as the speech, the wind as the breath and the earth coming from the feet.[70] (3) The cosmic entirety that serves as the body of the Vaishanara Self, as expounded by Ashvapati to the Rshis.[71] (4) The universe encompasses all existing things, both transient and eternal, which are subject to the processes of creation, subsistence, and destruction.[72]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The universe is understood to be the very form of the ultimate reality, yet the ultimate reality itself is not considered the agent responsible for the actions within that universe, remaining transcendent of agency.[73] (2) This is the sphere which is burnt up by the fire of jnana, and is absorbed along with its cause into Paramatma.[74] (3) The entirety of space and time and all that is contained within it, including all matter, energy, and phenomena, and the relationship that exists within.[75] (4) This is from Ahankara (down) to body, and does not exist in the speaker who is the non-dual One, and shines through Ajnana as truth, and is the speaker's true form.[76]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The verse posits that the universe is unreal, suggesting it is an illusion or a manifestation of something beyond immediate perception, contrasting with the reality of Brahman.[77] (2) The universe is moved to and fro by Avidya or ignorance, which is designated as the mind by sages who have fathomed its secret, like masses of clouds by the wind.[78] (3) It is completely filled by something, but nothing fills it; when that something shines, all of it shines as a reflection of that something.[79] (4) Considered the effect of Maya, the universe exists beneath the shining essence of the Real Self, ultimately transcended by the realization of Brahman within.[80] (5) Being distinct from the universe implies transcendence beyond the physical cosmos and its limitations, existing on a different plane of reality.[81]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) In this context, the universe contains Atman as the only reality, where other objects are mere acts of the mind that are changeable and negatable.[82] (2) It proceeds from the origin, characterized by diversity, and eventually disappears into the source of all things, being physical and super-physical.[83] (3) It is viewed by the wise in the Vedanta as being similar to dreams, illusions, or a castle in the air, implying its unreal nature.[84]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The universe was initially non-existent, lacking names and forms, but it existed in a subtle form, later manifesting itself from a seed and developing into an egg before splitting, revealing its constant state of change.[85]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Encompasses effects and causes, together with the knowing self, which enters into the supreme, undecaying self during sleep.[86] (2) It is fixed as spokes in a wheel, and the year is the cause of it, in the form of the sun and the moon.[87]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) It is the entity that Agni, also referred to as Hari, leads and directs, according to the provided explanation of the term.[88]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The universe is described as a creation of the supreme Lord through maya, and it is entered by the Lord in a manner that is similar to a garland entering an illusory serpent.[89] (2) The universe is described as something created by Brahman, and its potential assumption of the cause's form is questioned.[90] (3) The text refers to the things of the universe as being related as food and the eater of food, which are sublated by knowledge.[91] (4) The universe is the space into which Brahman is argued to have entered in a different form, similar to how clay is said to enter into a pot.[92] (5) The entirety of existence, encompassing diverse beings like humans, deities, animals, and avian creatures, was brought into being by the divine creator.[93]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The text mentions that the whole universe is born from, dissolved in, and upheld by the Self, which is Consciousness, highlighting the all-encompassing nature of the Self.[94] (2) The universe is described as the place where the Paramatman enters, and the text refers to the evolved universe including the akasha, which appears as food and food-eater, and it is the place where the samsara pertains.[95]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The universe is held together by a stream of work and impressions of innumerable beings in combination, and it appears to those who have identified themselves with it to be undecaying, eternal and full of substance.[96] (2) The broader context in which the Being transcends and has been described as having a material cause.[97] (3) The vast cosmos that is imbued with the Gayatri's essence, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all existence as revealed in the teachings.[98]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Its perception seems limited when one observes items; this limitation arises from the creation of items, even affecting the understanding of eternal concepts.[99] (2) "The universe" has Time as its very soul, with Time running like a thread through everything, implying Time's fundamental and pervasive influence.[100] (3) According to the text, the Universe proceeds out of Brahman which is the Word, devoid of all inner sequence; the transformations, that is, the Universe proceeds out of Brahman, and emerges out of the word aspect of Brahman.[101] (4) Time is a background element and a cause of everything that exists in it.[102] (5) The universe represents the entirety of existence, where Time plays a crucial role in regulating events and their timing.[103]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) The "universe" is mirrored in man, with as much diversity within man as there is in the world, and vice versa, highlighting a fundamental similarity and interconnectedness between the two.[104] (2) This is the encompassing environment where the actions of Vata are observed, both in its normal and abnormal states, influencing various processes.[105]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) The universe is dependent on Kaala, highlighting its role in implementing all actions and processes, indicating that Kaala is an unavoidable aspect of existence.[106] (2) This is the Universe, and according to the principles of Ayurveda, there is not a single substance in the Universe which does not have a potential to be used as a drug, provided it is used judiciously by the physician where it is required.[107] (3) Due to the resemblance between the Lok and the Purush, the individual can be understood well based upon knowledge of this.[108]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) Also known as Lok, this and human body have similarities in qualities, functions and structure.[109]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The universe is uncreate and eternal, undergoing phenomenal changes while remaining the same as a noumenon, associated with three qualities or active forces.[110] (2) The universe's illumination by the sun is an analogy for the manifestation of thorough knowledge, with the morning star representing an emancipator.[111]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) It is illumined by Her radiance along with this Cauldron and dwells in the Svayambhu-Linga above where Kundalini is coiled.[112]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) According to Vedanta philosophy Ishwara is the supreme Ruler of the universe—its Creator, Sustainer and Dissolver, according to the provided text.[113]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) It has a foundation in the water and is produced from the waters. Also, the deity is considered its child, encompassing all existence.[114] (2) The totality represented in the Full-offering, as Agni is appeased by the All.[115]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) As from a mother comes birth, so from the Brahman who, as the creator of “sound” is called “Shabdabrahman,” the universe proceeds, emphasizing the creative power of sound.[116] (2) This is a term that is a series of Worlds of Birth, Death, and Reincarnation called by the Hindus the Samsara, and was named by the Greeks the Cycle of the Becoming (kuklos ton geneson), and the ShriYantra is thus the Universe and its one Causal Power of various aspects.[117]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) This refers to the entirety of existence, and Vishvakarma is invoked as the creator of the universe as a whole.[118]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) The entirety of existence, which the bride is wished to become or be part of, through a ritual formula.[119]
Jain concept of 'Universe'
In Jainism, the Universe encompasses spatial units tied to time, depicted through cosmological maps. It is vast, boundless even for gods, and driven by Karma, the fundamental cause. It's a realm where all existence, including Leshya, unfolds.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The text describes the immense size of this entity, indicating that even with superhuman speed, gods cannot reach its end, even after extended periods of time and multiple generations.[120]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) This seemed to be made of sound from the uproar arising in every direction, and to be made of iron from the weapons waved on all sides, showing an impact.[121]
The concept of Universe in local and regional sources
The "Universe" encompasses diverse perspectives: a temporary illusion, the totality of existence, a realm of change, a playground, or a dance. It can be viewed as God's manifestation, a source of both good and evil, or a composite of matter, energy, and beings. Philosophically, it's a subject of contemplation and a pathway to understanding the soul.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is seen as the Holy One and nothing else, indicating a non-dualistic perspective on existence.[122] (2) The universe is described as the battleground of the two forces of differentiation and unification, with their constant interplay shaping the nature of existence.[123] (3) The universe is described as being created, preserved, and destroyed by God, according to Swami Vive Kananda's explanation of his beliefs.[124] (4) The universe is described as intense activity and vibration, and at the same time intensest peace and calm; how it is work every moment and rest every moment.[125] (5) According to the Hindus, the universe is believed to move in cycles of wave forms, rising to a zenith before falling, only to rise again, demonstrating a continuous motion.[126]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This entity merrily sings by divine grace and knows little of good or bad, exhibiting a long-suffering nature that puzzles the poet.[127] (2) The Universe contains the Riddle of Beauty, which the faculty of creative imagination strives to grasp and express through art.[128] (3) The Universe is described as being the direct product of art, implying that without the presence of art, there would inevitably be only destruction and immutability in existence.[129] (4) Universe is lovingly cared for by the loving Lord of the Universe, the compassionate Father of the Cosmos, the Triloka Kutumbin, where peace, bliss, and love are embodied in Him.[130] (5) Within the context provided, the **universe** is presented as having an apparent stillness that belies the presence of a loud song, implying a deeper, perhaps hidden, activity or energy.[131]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The universe, along with the elements and living beings within it, was perceived by the noble twice-born as a manifestation of Vitthal.[132] (2) A form in which a divine entity is considered as a tree, with the loving Nama as the nectar fruit on it, causing trouble when plucked off.[133] (3) The universe is presented as the domain where all beings live, with their existence being supported by the God of gods, implying a cosmic scope.[134] (4) "Universe" is pervaded by Shri Hari, suggesting a divine presence that permeates all aspects of existence and influences the hearts of everyone.[135] (5) A description of the domain of the Lord, and Nama is appealing to this deity for help, recognizing their power and seeking their mercy in a time of need.[136]
From: Gommatsara by Acharya Nemichandra
(1) This refers to the entirety of existence, within which the various Leshya and their modifications are found.[137] (2) The universe contains spatial units, and the number of these units is tied to the measure of time.[138] (3) The Universe is kept going by Karma, which is described as the first, ultimate, and original Cause, with all phenomena and changes attributed to Karmic effects.[139] (4) This is discussed in the context of maps and details, suggesting a cosmological or spatial representation of existence.[140]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is divided into three regions: lower, horizontal, and upper, and is described using metaphors.[141]
The concept of Universe in scientific sources
Based on regional sources, the Universe is compared to the brain as one of the most complex entities. Both share a connection, bound by a limitation principle.
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) God refers to that which is so completely other than, and radically transcendent to, it, that our language in affirming anything about God can only be analogical.[142]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) In the course of this event, the recipient is ideally harmonized with this.[143] (2) According to Ibn Barraja ̄ n, the Quran and mankind are three aspects of the same reality.[144] (3) All existing matter and space considered as a whole; the cosmos.[145]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) This is the specific subject matter content used in the online-based edu-escape room, focusing on astronomical concepts for primary education degree students.[146] (2) In information systems, the universe represents the collection of all objects or elements under consideration for analysis.[147] (3) Derives from its own rules that humans believe in and strive to understand, which creates symbols in human cognition.[148]
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) This entity and the brain are considered as two most complicated entities with links existing between them, including a limitation principle for both.[149]