The Eternal Nature of God: Unraveling the Mystery

Throughout human history, the concept of God's eternal nature has fascinated and perplexed many. The idea that God is beyond time and exists eternally has roots in various spiritual traditions and religions. In this article, we will explore the concept of God's eternity through the lens of Vedic scriptures and understand why God is considered eternal.

Introduction to God’s Eternity

According to John 1:1 in the Bible, God is described as the 'beginningless and endless,' indicating His eternal nature. In the Vedic tradition, God is known as Nirakar Niranjan, the one who cannot be seen with the physical eyes, representing a formless and omnipresent deity. The Almighty is the formless mind, and the entire cosmic three realms are granted as a boon for 1027 Yuga cycles. Once these cycles are complete, the creation will dissolve, and there will be no mind, leading to nothingness. The Vedic texts further describe an Eternal Lord who is the Lord of Reality, mentioned as BG 8.20-21.

Understanding God Through Vedic Version

One of the core teachings of the Vedic version is that God is made of eternity, knowledge, and bliss. These are the essential attributes that define God's essence. Just as an ocean can be understood by examining one drop, we can understand God by contemplating His attributes. The Vedic scriptures mention that Krishna, the Supreme Godhead, is the origin of all, without any origin, and the prime cause of all causes, as described in the Brahma-samhita, verse 5.1.

Eternity, Knowledge, and Bliss

Eternity, knowledge, and bliss are the fundamental qualities of God, making perfect sense as the substance of His being. By examining our own existence, we can understand that all living entities naturally seek eternity, knowledge, and bliss. This instinct is deeply ingrained, as evident in our natural desire for happiness, learning, and preservation of our beings. The Vedic texts suggest that our basic nature as souls, or atomic fragments of God, are comprised of the same spiritual substance as God.

The Survival Instinct and Beyond

The survival instinct, along with the mating instinct, are the strongest instincts in all living beings. Beyond the concept of material existence, boredom is just a temporary state in the physical realm. For souls on the spiritual plane, qualities like eternal youth and bliss are constant and unspeakably enchanting. No one desires their happiness to end because it is inherently satisfying. Only a miserable existence could prompt one to wish for the end of their existence.

Connecting with Eternity Through Chanting

To connect with our true identities as souls and the essence of eternity, knowledge, and bliss, one must invoke God through the name of God. This practice is described in the Kali-santarana Upanishad, where the Hare Krishna Mantra is recommended. By chanting 'Hare Krishna,' one can invoke the divine presence and connect with the eternal spirit.

The Hare Krishna Mantra

The Hare Krishna Mantra, as described, is the invocation of the divine name:

hare krishna hare krishna

krishna krishna hare hare

hare rama hare rama

rama rama hare hare

This chanting is a method to resonate with the eternal essence of God, bringing one closer to understanding and experiencing the eternal nature of existence.

Understanding the eternal nature of God is a profound journey that involves seeking knowledge, embracing bliss, and ultimately connecting with the divine. Through the Vedic scriptures and practices like chanting, one can explore the mysteries of God's eternal existence.