BRAHMADIKA – The Hindu Triad Brahma etc. and Sanaka etc. want to meet the Lord and also the Yogis, celibates and adepts. (Gauri Bairagan M. 5, p. 203) Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva contemplate about the Lord, but they are bound by three modes and are far from salvation. (Maru M. 3, p. 1049) Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva have extended the three modes. (Var Marit Dakhne M. 5, p. 1094) Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are diseased by the maya of three modes and work in ego. (Suhi M. 4, p. 735) The Triad of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva is lost in the illusion of three modes.
(Ramkali M. 3, p. 909) The three gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva represent the modes of Rajas, Sattva and Tamas respecdvely. These three modes together constitute maya, hence they cannot see God, their Creator. Guru Nanak Dev says in Japuji: “The Maya became conceived (by the Lord) and the three approved disciples manifested. The one was the creator, the other preserver (distributor) and the third one held court. They work according to the Will of the Lord and are Commanded by him. They look towards Him, but they cannot behold him; this is highly wonderful.”
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh ed, Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
The Brahmadika, or the Hindu Triad, refers to the three principal deities in Hinduism: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Together, they represent the cosmic functions of creation, preservation, and destruction, forming the foundation of Hindu theology. Here’s a deeper look:
1. The Triad’s Roles
- Brahma: The creator of the universe, responsible for bringing existence into being. He is often depicted with four heads, symbolizing his all-encompassing knowledge.
- Vishnu: The preserver, who maintains balance and order in the universe. Vishnu incarnates in various forms (avatars), such as Rama and Krishna, to protect dharma (righteousness).
- Shiva: The destroyer, who dissolves the universe to pave the way for renewal and transformation. Shiva embodies both destruction and regeneration, symbolizing the cyclical nature of existence.
2. Symbolism
The triad represents the interplay of creation, sustenance, and destruction, which are essential for the universe’s functioning. They are often depicted together in art and literature, emphasizing their unity and interdependence.
3. Sikh Perspective
In Sikhism, the Hindu Triad is acknowledged but viewed through a different lens. The Guru Granth Sahib critiques the triad’s association with maya (illusion) and ego, emphasizing that even these powerful deities are bound by the cosmic laws set by the one formless God (Ik Onkar). For example:
- In Gauri Bairagan M.5 (p. 203), it is mentioned that Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva contemplate the Lord but remain bound by the three modes of maya.
- In Japuji Sahib, Guru Nanak highlights that the triad works according to the divine will but cannot fully comprehend the Creator.
4. Philosophical Insights
The Hindu Triad serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of balance. In Sikhism, it is used as a metaphor to illustrate the limitations of even the most powerful beings in understanding the infinite divine.
