Brahma Quote by Joseph Campbell
“Just think, Vishnu sleeps in the cosmic ocean, and the lotus of the universe grows from his navel. On the lotus sits Brahma, the creator. Brahma opens his eyes, and a world comes into being, governed by an Indra. Brahma closes his eyes, and a world goes out of being. The life of a Brahma is 432,000 years. When he dies, the lotus goes back, and another lotus is formed, and another Brahma. Then think of the galaxies beyond galaxies in infinite space, each a lotus, with a Brahma sitting on it, opening his eyes, closing his eyes.”
About This Quote
Source Mythology Lecture, 1970s, referencing Hindu cosmology
The universe is cyclic, with creation and dissolution driven by divine consciousness, symbolized by a lotus and a deity’s eyes.
In simple terms: Worlds arise and end as a god opens and closes eyes.
Recognize cycles of beginnings and endings.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- creative projects
- meditation
- understanding change
- cultural studies
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you see cycles in your life?
- What symbols represent creation for you?
Interpretations may differ across traditions; metaphor may not map to scientific views.