Cosmology – Understanding of the universe and how it began

(Pronounced koz-mol-uh-jee)

To remember the meaning of the Hindu term Cosmology, use the following mnemonic:

The cosmonaut issued an apology (cosmology) for having a limited understanding of how the universe began.

Cosmology in Hinduism is about the universe and the way it works.

Hindus believe that there are many universes, and that time goes around in a cycle that is repeatedly destroyed and created.

An important part of Hinduism is the belief in Maya – a veil that prevents people seeing the truth of everything around them. Hindus work towards enlightenment to clear their minds of material and temporary concerns, so they can better see through the veil.

They also believe that all matter goes through stages, known as the Triguna, the concept that everything is created, remains in existence and then is destroyed.

This belief is closely linked to the Trimurti – the idea that Brahma is the creator, Vishnu is the preserver and Shiva is the destroyer.