The forces that hold all universal entities together are bound to affect us in some way.
We are held on to the earth because of gravitational force, and this force affects us more than what meets the eye.
The phrase posits that the human body (and consciousness) is a miniature replica of the universe. Let’s understand this in simple terms:
The Big Bang: The universe began with the Big Bang, creating the simplest elements, hydrogen and helium.
- Stellar Nucleosynthesis: Stars are furnaces of the universe. Inside stars, through nuclear fusion, lighter elements (hydrogen, helium) are fused into heavier ones (carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, iron, etc.).
- Supernovae: When massive stars die in spectacular supernova explosions, they scatter these newly formed heavier elements across the galaxy. They also create even heavier elements (like gold and silver) in the extreme conditions of the explosion.
- Formation of Solar Systems: These dispersed elements then become the building blocks for new stars, planets, and everything on them, including us.
Every atom in our bodies was forged inside a star that lived and died billions of years ago. We are literally made of “stardust” or “cosmic dust.”
‘Yatha Pinde Tatha Brahmande’ As is the individual, so is the universe; as is the microcosm, so is the macrocosm.
- Pinda (पिण्ड): The Microcosm
- Literally means “lump,” “body,” or “individual,” or even an atom, referring to the individual human being, including their physical body, mind, emotions, and consciousness.
- It can also extend to smaller systems like a house or a town.
- Brahmanda (ब्रह्माण्ड): The Macrocosm
- Literally means “Brahma’s egg” or “cosmic egg,” referring to the entire universe.
- Encompasses all of creation – planets, stars, galaxies, natural forces, divine principles, and universal consciousness – dark energy.
Why this realization is significant:
- Sense of Connection: It fosters an incredible sense of interconnectedness with the entire universe. We are not separate observers; we are integral parts of the universe, constantly recycling its matter and energy.
- Humility and Wonder: It evokes awe at the vastness and complexity of the universe, and humility at our place within it, yet also wonders at the fact that we are made of the very stuff of stars.
- Spiritual Resonance: For many like me, this scientific truth deeply resonates with spiritual feelings of unity and universal consciousness.
While rooted in ancient spiritual texts, the principle of “Yatha Pinde Tatha Brahmande” can also be interpreted through a more observational lens.
- Same Principles/Laws: The laws of nature, cycles of creation and destruction, rhythms, and energies observed in the universe are mirrored in the internal workings of the human system. Like:
- The circadian rhythms of the body and digestive fire (Agni) in the body align with the sun’s cycles.
- The flow of fluids in the body mirroring rivers and oceans.
- The magnetic field of earth rising from the north pole and sinking in the south pole affects the circulation of blood (iron) in the human body.
- Patterns and Structures: The complex patterns and structures seen in galaxies, nebulae, and ecosystems can be found in the intricate networks of the human brain, circulatory system, or cellular structures.
- Consciousness: The individual consciousness (Atman) is considered a spark or a part of the universal consciousness/energy force (Brahman). The ultimate spiritual goal in many traditions is to realize this oneness.
In essence, “Yatha Pinde Tatha Brahmande” is a profound reminder that we are not separate entities existing in a detached universe, but rather integral, interconnected parts of a grand, harmonious design of universe.
Understanding this helps us to live more in tune with ourselves, our surroundings, and the natural world. But how do we achieve this in our day-to-today lives,