In Hindu philosophy, the concept of "Absolute Truth" refers to a transcendent reality that exists beyond the physical processes of creation, sustenance, and dissolution of the universe. This Absolute Truth is often identified with Brahman, the ultimate, unchanging reality amidst and beyond the world, which is also seen as the source of all existence.
Creation (Srishti): In Hindu cosmology, creation is the process by which the universe and all beings come into existence. It is often personified by the deity Brahma, who is seen as the creator god. The Vedas and other Hindu scriptures describe how the universe emerges from Brahman, the unmanifested, into the manifested world through a cosmic process.
Sustenance (Sthiti): After creation, the universe is maintained and preserved. This aspect is personified by Vishnu, the sustainer god, who ensures the order and balance of the cosmos. The world operates according to the laws of Dharma (righteousness) and continues in a state of dynamic balance.
Dissolution (Pralaya): Eventually, the universe undergoes dissolution or destruction, making way for a new cycle of creation. This process is personified by Shiva, the destroyer god, who brings about the end of the existing order to allow for renewal and transformation.
While these three processes are fundamental to the Hindu understanding of the cosmos, the Absolute Truth that Hinduism teaches transcends them. Brahman, as the Absolute Reality, is beyond the temporal cycles of birth, life, and death. It is:
Unchanging: Brahman remains constant and unaltered, irrespective of the cosmic processes. It is described as Sat (existence), Chit (consciousness), and Ananda (bliss).
Infinite: Brahman is not confined by time, space, or causation. It is boundless and all-encompassing.
Non-dual (Advaita): In many schools of Hindu philosophy, especially Advaita Vedanta, Brahman is considered non-dual, meaning there is no second; everything in the universe is ultimately one with Brahman. The perceived duality and multiplicity in the world are seen as illusions (Maya).
Beyond Attributes (Nirguna): While Brahman can be described with attributes (Saguna) in various forms and deities for devotional purposes, in its highest aspect, it is beyond all attributes and forms (Nirguna).
Understanding this Absolute Truth involves transcending the limitations of the material world and recognizing the eternal, unchanging reality that underlies all existence. This realization is often considered the ultimate goal of human life, leading to liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and rebirth (Samsara).
In summary, the Absolute Truth in Hinduism teaches that there is a reality beyond the cycles of creation, sustenance, and dissolution. This reality, Brahman, is eternal, infinite, and non-dual, and recognizing it leads to spiritual liberation.