More details on the varṣas of Jambūdvīpa
The whole purpose of the description of the universe in the Fifth Canto is to elevate our consciousness. This process is what allows us to understand the model and experience higher levels.
« Making Sense of the Vedic Universe, a Higher-Dimensional Reality
Chapter 3: More details on the varṣas of Jambūdvīpa
Vedic cosmology is not about a dry description of the distances and physical laws as we study in material science, but a study of the potencies of the Lord and how they interact. As we understand more about the Lord and His potencies, we start to understand and appreciate His creation. On the other hand, when we try to study the creation separated from the creator, it becomes impossible to understand. This empirical study of the universe is precisely the mistake committed by modern researchers.
When we look at the sky, we use our material eyes to see visible light that reaches our planet. Whatever exists that doesn’t emit light in the particular wavelengths detected by our eyes can’t be seen by us. We may use different instruments to see further, such as telescopes, and to detect other forms of signals apart from light, or even use computers to help with calculations and interpretation of these signals, but the same fundamental limitations remain. All these instruments are made of the same gross type of matter as our eyes, and are capable of detecting only a small part of what exists. All this data that reaches our senses is then converted into electrical signals that reach the brain. These signals pass through the emotional filter of the mind and are then interpreted by the imperfect material intelligence. We may call it “reality”, but what reality really is?
Physicists conclude that most of our universe is composed of dark matter and dark energy. Most estimates put the total at about 85 to 95%, which means only 15% or less of the universe is composed of forms of matter and energy that are observable to us. All the rest, we can only speculate about.
From this small percentage of observable matter, all we see when we look into the sky is the observable light emitted by stars and other luminous objects. From these dots of light, we try to infer the existence of planets, measure distances, and so on, and create theories to try to explain how this universe came to be. However, without understanding the source, the purpose, and the different divine energies that compose the cosmos, this process results in incorrect and misleading conclusions. Some then conclude that the universe we live in was created by chance and is governed by mechanical physical laws, without any higher purpose.
A large portion of the Fifth Canto is dedicated to the prayers of the inhabitants of Jambūdvīpa to the different forms of the Lord present in their abodes. If our main goal in studying the Fifth Canto is to understand Vedic cosmology, these prayers may appear out of place, but in reality, they are very significant. The whole purpose of the description of the universe included in the Fifth Canto is to elevate our consciousness. This process of elevation of consciousness is what allows us to understand the model and ultimately to experience the higher levels of reality described in the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. By studying the prayers of the inhabitants of these different varṣas of Jambūdvīpa, we can get a glimpse into their consciousness, and understand what they have of more valuable, which is their process of worship, their understanding of the difference between material and spiritual, and the purpose of our existence.
Read the whole book:
« Making Sense of the Vedic Universe, a Higher-Dimensional Reality
This is a publication for thoughtful readers who want to go deeper into Kṛṣṇa consciousness. I publish daily, trying to offer high-quality spiritual content, and all posts are available to free subscribers. If you wish, you can also choose a paid subscription to support this work.
You can also receive the updates on WhatsApp or Telegram.
If you would like to contribute further, you can find the donation links here.