Brahma, Vishnu
& Shiva are normally represented
as shown above in Hindu temples.
It is seen that
Brahma has many faces,
representing one who lives life in highest awareness and
one who is always in the mode of creation. Therefore, Brahma represents
the power of Creation.
Vishnu is shown above
sheltered by the
shesh naag
(King cobra).
Shesh
means 'the remaining' and
naag
means snake.
In ancient times, the snake
(naag) was
used to symbolize energy or power. The snake moves in a wave-like
manner. In science, the wave is used to represent energy. During the
dark ages, however, the knowledge that the snake
(naag) is a
symbol for energy became lost.
Therefore,
naag
(snake) refers to energy and
shesh naag
refers to the remaining power that
is
beyond the powers of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
Above, it is shown that
Shiva
adorns a snake with a raised hood around the neck.
This represents power in an awakened state.
Shiva represents the power of change. Here, change
refers to those changes taking place within and without. The changes we
feel within the body in the form of lightness and heaviness, pain and
pleasure, comfort and discomfort etc..., represent the power of Shiva.
Concentrating on the changes within our body through the practice of
Kriyayoga is the real worship of Shiva which awakens Divine powers
within. Awakening of the Divine powers enable the devotee to create,
preserve and bring about changes in self as well as in any creation of
Cosmos. This is the state of being one with the powers of Brahma (Creation),
Vishnu (Preservation) and Shiva (Change).
With the sincere and devoted
practice of Kriyayoga, the devotee also becomes One with the power
beyond Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, which is attainment of Liberation
(removal of ignorance). At this stage, the devotee realizes true nature
of Self as Immortal, Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Omniscient Consciousness -
One with God.
