Vishwayoni

Let’s look at the meaning of the 151st divya nama of Vishnu Sahasranama - विश्वयोनिः (Vishwayoni) from -

भ्राजिष्णुर्भोजनं भोक्ता सहिष्णुर्जगदादिजः ।

अनघो विजयो जेता विश्वयोनिः पुनर्वसुः ॥

The divine name Vishvayoni means 'The Cause of the Universe'. It comes from two words: Vishva, which means 'the entire universe' or 'all that exists', and Yoni, which means 'origin', 'source', or 'cause'. Thus, Vishvayoni signifies Bhagavan as the ultimate source and origin of everything in existence.

Bhagavan is the original cause of the universe. Everything originates from him, exists because of him, and ultimately merges back into him. The Vedas declare that he alone is the creator, sustainer, and dissolver of the cosmos. The Mundaka Upanishad says: 'Just as a spider creates and withdraws its web, just as plants grow from the earth, just as hair and nails grow from the human body, the entire universe arises from the eternal Brahman.'

This shows that Bhagavan is both the material and efficient cause of creation. The universe is not separate from him. It is his manifestation.

Since Bhagavan is the source of the universe, he exists beyond time and space. He is the ultimate reality from which everything emerges. He is not bound by creation. Instead, he remains untouched while pervading all existence.

Thus, Vishvayoni reminds us that Bhagavan is the supreme origin, protector, and guide of the universe. Worshiping him brings us closer to the eternal truth.

What does it mean for Bhagavan to be both the material and efficient cause of creation? When Bhagavan is considered both the material and efficient cause, it indicates that the universe isn't created from something separate or pre-existing, but that it comes from his own essence. He's the source material from which the universe is made (material cause) and the force or power that brings the universe into existence (efficient cause). This signifies a very close and intrinsic relationship between the universe and Bhagavan.

What is the relationship between the universe and Bhagavan according to the concept of Vishvayoni? The universe is not seen as separate from Bhagavan but rather as a manifestation of him. The universe is his expression, his creation, and in that way, intimately connected. The concept emphasizes that the universe arises from Bhagavan's essence and is a part of his being, making it inseparable from the divine source.

If Bhagavan is the source of the universe, what is his relationship to time and space? Because Bhagavan is the source of the universe, he exists beyond the limitations of time and space. He is considered the ultimate reality from which everything emerges and is therefore not bound by his creation. Instead, he is described as remaining untouched by creation, while still pervading all of existence, signifying his eternal and limitless nature.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi