After 100 years of Brahma, a profound cosmic dissolution known as a Pralaya occurs, leading to the reabsorption of the entire universe and Brahma himself into the absolute.
The Grand Dissolution: Pralaya After Brahma's Lifespan
In the vast expanse of cosmic time within Hindu cosmology, Brahma's lifespan marks an incredibly long duration, at the culmination of which a significant event called a Pralaya takes place. This event signifies not just an end, but a complete reabsorption of all manifest existence.
Upon the completion of 100 years of Brahma, the cosmic cycle reaches its ultimate conclusion in a specific, profound dissolution. During this grand Pralaya:
- Universal Dissolution: The entire universe undergoes a process of dissolution. This means all of creation, in its myriad forms, is reabsorbed back into its unmanifest, primordial state.
- Brahma's Reabsorption: Even Brahma, the deity responsible for creation, is subject to this cosmic cycle. At this juncture, Brahma enters the absolute, signifying his re-mergence with the ultimate reality or Brahman, the source from which all emanates.
This particular Pralaya marks the end of a complete cosmic cycle of creation and existence. It is distinct from the periodic dissolutions that occur at the end of a Kalpa (a day of Brahma), as this grand dissolution encompasses the creator himself and all of his creation, bringing a vast era to its close.
Key Aspects of the Pralaya After Brahma's 100 Years
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | A grand cosmic dissolution, specifically referred to as a Pralaya. |
| Timing | Occurs precisely after the completion of 100 years of Brahma's own lifespan, marking the end of a very long cosmic period. |
| Scope of Impact | The entire universe is dissolved, meaning all created realms, beings, and forms are absorbed back into their unmanifest state. |
| Brahma's Fate | Brahma, the creator deity, also undergoes this dissolution and enters the absolute, re-merging with the ultimate reality. |
This comprehensive dissolution ensures that the cosmic process is cyclical, with periods of manifestation followed by periods of unmanifestation, awaiting a future impetus for creation.
