Book 1st (First Amsha) – Cosmology and Creationst :
Book I (First Amsha) of the Vishnu Purana presents a profound and comprehensive narrative on
cosmology and the process of creation, laying the foundation for the entire Purana. It opens by
declaring Vishnu as the Supreme Being, the eternal source and sustainer of the universe, from
whom all other deities—including Brahma (the creator) and Shiva (the destroyer)—emerge as
manifestations of his divine will. The text explains the metaphysical origins of existence,
beginning with the unmanifest reality (Brahman) transforming into the cosmic principle
(Mahattattva), followed by the evolution of Ahamkara (ego), the five subtle elements
(tanmatras), and eventually the five gross elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space. From
these, all beings, senses, and aspects of the material world evolve. Brahma, who emerges from
the lotus that springs from Vishnu’s navel, is assigned the role of creator. He creates the
universe in stages: first the immovable and movable beings, followed by divine entities like
gods, demons, ancestors, humans, animals, birds, and plants. The book elaborates on different
types of creation (Sarga and Visarga), the cyclical nature of time through Manvantaras, and
introduces the first Manu—Svayambhuva Manu, along with his descendants. It details the
creation of various Rishis (sages), Prajapatis (progenitors), and other celestial beings,
emphasizing the interconnectedness of all existence as flowing from Vishnu. Philosophically, the
book delves into concepts of the soul (Atman), Maya (illusion), and the supreme Brahman,
encouraging the reader to realize the ephemeral nature of material life and the eternal truth of
Vishnu. Book I is not just a tale of cosmic creation but a spiritual discourse that invites one to
understand the divine unity behind the diversity of the universe, ultimately guiding the soul
toward liberation through knowledge, detachment, and devotion.
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