Sanatan Concept of Time

In Sanatan Dharma, the concept of time, known as "Kaal," is considered an integral aspect of the cosmic order. Time in itself is seen as a consequence of  cyclical nature of existence. It is only because of the cycles of the nature, that time is both felt and measured. The movement of the time is called as Samaya Chakra or Kaal Chakra. The origin of time is explained in Hindu cosmology and philosophical texts. While the exact details may vary among different scriptures and traditions, there are some common themes in understanding the origin of time:

From Brahman:

• • According to the Vedantic perspective, which is a major philosophical school within Hinduism, the ultimate reality, Brahman, is considered timeless and formless. When Brahman undergoes a process of manifestation or self-expression (known as "Lila" or divine play), it gives rise to the universe, including time.

  • Time, along with space and causation, is considered one of the fundamental aspects of the manifested world (Maya). It is a product of the creative energy (Shakti) of Brahman.

Cosmic Creation:

• • The concept of time is closely tied to the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction (Srishti, Sthiti, and Samhara). In Hindu cosmology, this cycle is continuous and is governed by divine principles.

  • The various ages or Yugas (such as Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga) represent different phases in the cosmic cycle, each characterized by specific qualities and durations. These Yugas collectively contribute to the notion of time as a cyclical and eternal force.

From Shiva:

• • In some traditions, particularly those focusing on Lord Shiva, time is personified as Mahakaal, the Lord of Time. Shiva, as Mahakaal, is often described as timeless and beyond the limitations of the manifested universe.

  • Shiva's cosmic dance, known as the Tandava, is symbolic of the rhythm of time, with each movement representing the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction.

Symbolic Representations: 

The concept of time is often symbolically represented by the cosmic serpent Ananta Shesha, upon which Lord Vishnu reclines. Ananta Shesha signifies the infinite and eternal nature of time, supporting the universe during its cycles.

Sanatan Measurement of Time

• Yuga was nothing but a 5- year cycle of Vedic Vishuvat = Sharad Ritu (Autumnal equinox)calendar. Chaturyuga was a 20-year cycle of the same calendar.

• Considering the conjunction of 22 Feb 6778 BCE (-6778) and the end of 28th Krita Yuga as sheet anchor, we can easily reconstruct the Yuga calendar and it’s evolution.

• When winter solstice shifted to Ashvini Nakshatra around 7322 BCE, Indian astronomers finalised the list of 27 Nakshatras starting from Ashvini and excluding Abhijit. The epoch of 7322 BCE has been considered as the beginning of 7th Manvantara cycle in Yuga calendar. Thus:

  • 7322-6782 BCE - 27 Chaturyugas of 20 years 

  • 6782-6777 BCE- 28th Kritayuga (Mayasura wrote Surya Siddhanta on 22 Feb 6778 BCE at the end of 28 Kritayuga)

  • The length of a Yuga increased to 1200 years to incorporate Jovian cycle of 12 years and increased length of Yuga cycle for accuracy 

• 6777-5577 BCE- 28th Tretayuga (Ramayana in the last century of Tretayuga- 5677-5577 BCE)

• Now the Length of a Chaturyuga has been increased to 12000 years and differential duration of Yugas introduced. Therefore, Dvapara Yuga had a duration of 2400 years

• 5577-3177 BCE- 28th Dvapara Yuga ( MB war took place in 3162 BCE)

• Now the length of a Chaturyuga has been increased to 43,20,000 years (12000 x 360)

The Evolution of the Concept of Yuga and Chaturyuga

Yuga Chronology

• 7322 BCE to 6782 BCE - 540 Years

• 27 ChaturYugas (20 years each) elapsed from 7322 BCE to 6782 BCE

• 28th ChaturYuga

  1. Kritayuga: 5 years - 6782-6777 BCE (Maya's SS-22 Feb 6778 BCE)

  2. Tretayuga: 1200 Years - 6777-5577 BCE (sri Rama's Birth on 3rd Feb 5764 BCE)

  3. Dwaparyuga: 2400 years- 5577-3176 BCE (MB War in 3162 BCE)

  4. Kaliyuga: 432000 years - 3176 BCE, 3173 BCE, 3162 BCE, 3126 BCE or 3101 BCE