The symbolism of the bindu, or dot or point, in Hinduism is deeply rooted in various philosophical and religious traditions. In Shaiva Siddhanta philosophy, the bindu holds profound significance, representing the ultimate source and culmination of existence.
Representation of Shiva: In Shaiva Siddhanta, the bindu
symbolizes Shiva, the supreme deity who is regarded as the ultimate reality and
source of all creation. Just as a point is the starting and ending point of a
line, Shiva is considered the beginning and end of everything. Thus, the bindu
serves as a visual representation of Shiva's omnipresence and omnipotence.
Origin and Dissolution: The bindu is associated with the
process of creation, preservation, and dissolution (Srishti, Sthiti, and
Samhara) in Hindu cosmology. At the time of dissolution (Samhara), the entire
cosmos, along with all its manifestations, is absorbed back into the bindu.
This represents the cyclic nature of existence, where creation emerges from and
ultimately returns to its source.
Unity of Shiva and Shakti: Depending on the interpretation
and school of thought, the bindu can also symbolize Shakti, the divine feminine
energy or creative power. In this context, the bindu represents the union of
Shiva and Shakti, signifying the inseparable interplay of masculine and
feminine forces that underlie the entire universe's existence.
Mystical Symbolism: The bindu is often likened to a black
hole, a singularity that contains immense power and potentiality. It represents
the ineffable and the unmanifest, existing beyond the realm of ordinary
perception. Just as a black hole absorbs everything into itself, the bindu
symbolizes the mysterious force into which all creation dissolves during cosmic
dissolution, remaining in a state of undifferentiated unity until the next
cycle of creation begins.
Overall, the bindu serves as a potent symbol in Hinduism,
encapsulating profound metaphysical concepts such as the nature of existence,
the cyclic nature of creation, and the unity of opposites. It invites
contemplation on the interconnectedness of all things and the transcendental
nature of reality beyond the limitations of time and space.