Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh - Trinity

In Hinduism, the three major deities, Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, are considered to be Creator, Administrator and Destroyer respectively.

But Are they just gods or is there more to it.

Taking a more objective view, one can understand the symbolic representations of the three phases of human life: creation, preservation, and destruction through Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.

Each deity represents a different phase of human existence and offers guidance on how to navigate the challenges and opportunities that arise during these phases.

1. Brahma

Brahma, the creator, is associated with the phase of human life where one seeks knowledge and learning. During this phase, which is typically associated with childhood and adolescence, individuals are encouraged to explore the world around them and acquire as much knowledge as possible. This is a time of discovery and curiosity, where individuals can develop their skills, talents, and interests.

We all live through this, schools, colleges, initial years of the job, career which involves heavy learning across various aspects, be it knowledge about the work, inter-personal relations, or worldly knowledge. This continues till you reach a sound state in life in terms of money, work, life.

Then you have to maintain it and preserve it, seek balance, which is the second stage Vishnu.

2. Vishnu

Vishnu, the preserver, is associated with the phase of human life where individuals seek stability and preservation. This phase, which is typically associated with adulthood, is a time when individuals focus on building a stable foundation for their lives, establishing their careers, and creating meaningful relationships. It is a time of balance and harmony, where individuals must learn to balance their personal and professional lives and contribute to the greater good of society.

This is the phase where things get a bit fast paced, as this requires more responsibility and balance. There is work, there is family, there is your own individual life, and you have to take responsibility of it all, and on the way balance it all. The learning curve is huge, things get monotonous at a very high level, you know the routine, you know structure, but within this structure, every detail is happening at rapid speed, and somehow you know, you have to balance.

This is also a period of considerable personal growth.

Within this time, one who learns the art of balance, also starts getting benefits, which in human terms, is to enjoy life, enjoy material life. You relish on the fruits of your labour, your work gets to a more administrative, facilitator level, your family extends, there is harmony, you feel good about yourself and your life as a whole.

You feel content.

And then comes the stage of renunciation, Mahesh.

3. Mahesh

Mahesh, the destroyer, is associated with the phase of human life where individuals begin to detach themselves from the material world and prepare for their eventual departure from this life. This phase, which is typically associated with later years of life, is a time when individuals focus on spiritual growth and self-realization. It is a time of transformation and rebirth, where individuals must let go of their old selves and embrace a new way of being.

This happens at a later stage of life, when one has gone through struggles of seeking balance, and has enjoyed the fruits of life for a prolonged time.

Slowly, one also starts seeing the inevitable truth of death, and a longing for seeking something beyond. One often contemplates, others with a sense of incoming end start enjoying life more, some take time to accept and some just go on with life ignoring it. Irrespective of what one does, a sense of renunciation starts developing and one starts going internal in their thoughts, in their heart.

For some, spiritually, this bring a lot of internal growth and having lived a whole human life, a knowledge from a higher perspective.

Taken together, these three phases of human life offer a complete framework for understanding the human experience. Each phase offers unique challenges and opportunities, and each requires different skills and approaches. By understanding and embracing these phases, individuals can navigate their lives with greater purpose and meaning.

The mythology and symbolism associated with Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh offer valuable lessons for individuals of all ages. Brahma teaches us the importance of curiosity, learning, and exploration. Vishnu teaches us the importance of balance, stability, and contribution to society. Mahesh teaches us the importance of detachment, spiritual growth, and transformation.

By embracing these lessons and applying them to our lives, we can create a more fulfilling and meaningful existence. Whether we are in the phase of creation, preservation, or destruction, we can use these teachings to guide us on our journey and find greater purpose and fulfilment in life.