The Universe as an Illusion of Space Time

(This post is a reflection of Nīḻāmbara Dāsa’s spiritual experience and attempts to explain the illusory nature of the Universe that we are part of and its existence as the Space Time Continuum)

The Universe (Brahmāṇḍa) means the Expanding Cosmic Egg. The Universe is in an ever-expanding state scattered as a fabric of Space (Vistāra) and Time (Kāḻa), intertwined into one another, like a web.

The entire universe is nothing but a reflection of the absolute truth (Brahma) as space-time. Everything that we perceive is a reflection in this space-time. However, this principle is difficult to realize.

When an object is held against light in front of a mirror, different viewers view the reflection of the object differently. Depending upon the source of light, the angle of viewing and the position of the viewer, the reflected image could look different. The reflection of a cylinder, for example, could look like a circle from one angle and a rectangle from another. While none of the reflections is false per se, the experience of viewer tricks the mind from realizing the true nature of the object. This inability to perceive the truth in its entirety is called Avidyā (Ignorance), and the limiting factor is called the Māyā (Illusion).

As the reflection of the object is not the true representation of the object, the reflection as Universe is not its true representation but an illusion as the space-time continuum. Our perception of space is limited by the way we have experienced it with the reference as the earth. Similarly, our perception of time is limited by the way we have experienced it as forward moving, the past being unchangeable. However, our perceptions and experience limits us from realizing the complete and true nature of the Brahma (the absolute truth), of which the universe is merely a reflection as space-time.

As a reflection, the Universe exists because of the illusion (Māyā). If there were no illusion, there would be no existence, nor any concept of space and time.

The space continuum pinpoints our presence in the Universe as Earth (Bhu Loka), which is a part of the Milky Way Galaxy (Kṣīra Sāgara ~ Milky Ocean). The time continuum on the other hand goes through a cycle of four eras, viz. Satya, Tretayā, Dvāpara and Kaḻi.

During the Satya Yuga (Age of Truth), Dharma (Religion) stands on all four legs, and eventually deteriorates to three in Tretayā Yuga (Age of Three Divisions) to two in Dvāpara (Age of Two Divisions), and finally to one in Kaḻi Yuga (Age of Filth and Ignorance). We are presently in the last part of the Kaḻi Yuga.

Dharma (Religion) comes from the root word ‘dhri’, which means ‘that which holds’. Dharma holds together the Universe for its existence to continue in the time continuum. Through ages, whenever Dharma deteriorates and existence is threatened, Prakṛti (Nature) restores the balance by inducing changes in the on-going age.

Depending upon the characteristics of an on-going age, Prakṛti (Nature) takes a certain course of action in the form of a manifestation who restores Dharma (religion) and upholds the existence of the Universe. This manifestation is called an Incarnation (Avatāra Puruṣa).

Of the uncountable incarnations over ages, the prominent incarnations that marked a great change in the then on-going age are popularly known as the Daśāvatāra (ten incarnations). Nine Avatāras have already been completed in the present cycle of four ages and we have moved into the last part of last age whence the ongoing cycle would end and a new cycle begin.

It is also the time for the prophecised Kaḻki Nārāyaṇa Avatāra to incarnate who would use the sword of knowledge to cut through the ignorance and show the path of righteousness to mankind.

Through various prophecies and events, in various corners of the world, hints have been provided time and again about the upcoming arrival of the Avatāra Puruṣa. Millions around the world are awaiting the arrival of Kaḻki Nārāyaṇa.

—

Faith is one of the most important enablers that can help one progress forward in their spiritual journey. Practising Bhāva (Ardour), Bhakti (Devotion) and Prema (Love) can dispel darkness and lead to Divinity.

Nīḻāmbara Dāsa
Śrī Nivāsa, Nīḻāñcaḻa
Written on 10 Aug, 2016

Disclaimer:

Posts in Anubhūtimāḻā are selected philosophical reflections of spiritual experiences submitted by individuals from around the world. Although every individual’s journey is unique and may vary from others based on their chosen path and experience along the journey, all paths eventually lead to the same Divine. You too can share your spiritual experience with us privately, or alternately indicate your permission consenting us to share it publicly on this website.