Vishnu’s Father: The Truth Behind the Origin of Lord Vishnu

In Hinduism, Lord Vishnu is worshipped as the Preserver of the Universe, but a common question that often arises in people’s minds is: Who is Vishnu’s Father? Was Lord Vishnu created, or is He self-born? In this article, we will explore, based on mythological scripture, who is considered to be the father of Lord Vishnu:

Who Is Lord Vishnu’s Father – An Mythological Tale

When there was no trace of creation, when there was neither day nor night, no directions, nor even the sky—only one supreme existence prevailed, the Parabrahma, known in various scriptures as Kaal or Mahakaal. He is never born, nor does He die. He possesses neither attributes nor form. He was, He is, and He shall always be.

The Stir of Consciousness in the Primordial Void

That infinite, unknowable Parabrahma wished, “Let me become many from one.” From this divine will emerged a unique energy—Mahashakti, also known as Prakriti, Maya, or Adi Durga. This energy was the mother of beauty, power, action, and emotions. From her arose time and the three qualities—Rajas (activity), Tamas (inertia), and Sattva (purity).

Creation of the Trinity from the Three Gunas

When Parabrahma (Kaal) cast His gaze upon Mahashakti (Durga), their united consciousness manifested three divine beings:

  1. Brahma – Born from Rajas guna (for creation)
  2. Vishnu – Born from Sattva guna (for preservation)
  3. Shiva – Born from Tamas guna (for destruction)

Their emergence was the result of a divine resolve. They were not physically born but descended from a supreme state of knowledge.

The Manifestation of Vishnu: The Tale of the Kshir Sagar

When some balance was established in the creation, a divine light emerged from the power of Sattva guna, which took abode in the Kshir Sagar (Ocean of Milk). That light slowly transformed into a beautiful form, Shri Hari Vishnu, who was resting in a deep slumber upon the Sheshnaag.

This sight was deeply mysterious around Him was the calm Kshir Sagar, the endless-hooded Sheshnaag, and reclining upon it was Lord Vishnu, whose radiance surpassed even a thousand suns.

When Lord Vishnu became conscious, He looked toward the universe and asked, “Who am I? Where have I come from? Where has this ocean appeared from? Who is this serpent?”

At that moment, a divine voice echoed through the cosmos— “O Vishnu! You are the son of Kaal and the child of Maya. Your duty is to preserve.”

Kaal and Durga: The Divine Parents of Vishnu

According to the Shiva Purana and the Devi Bhagavata, Kaal (Mahabrahma) wished, and from that wish Prakriti (Durga) manifested. From their union, the three gunas were created. From Sattva guna emerged Vishnu—peaceful, gentle, and in the form of the Preserver. Thus, Kaal is referred to as the father of Vishnu.

Who is Kaal Brahma?

Kaal Brahma is the lord of the universe in which we reside. This entire cosmos is made up of 21 multiverses (many universes). Out of these 21, the 21st universe is the personal realm of Kaal, where he dwells in his original form as Kaal.

Kaal Brahma has also created three separate universes, in which he himself resides in three forms: Mahabrahma (the Great Brahma), Mahavishnu, and Mahashiva (or Sadashiva). In each of these three universes, his consort Devi Durga also resides with him in different forms:

  1. With Mahabrahma – as Mahasavitri,
  2. With Mahavishnu – as Mahalakshmi,
  3. With Mahashiva – as Mahaparvati.

From the union of each of these divine pairs (male and nature), the Tridev—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—are born. The forms of these sons resemble that of their respective fathers- Brahma appears similar to Mahabrahma, Vishnu resembles Mahavishnu, And in the form of Shiva, there is a reflection of Mahashiva.

The Dialogue Between Vishnu and Brahma

Once, a dispute arose between Brahma and Vishnu over the question—“Who is greater?” At that moment, an endless pillar of divine light (Jyotirlinga) appeared. Brahma flew upwards and Vishnu went downward, but neither could find its end. Then Shiva appeared and said:
You both are parts of Me. But I have no beginning, and no end.”

This tale suggests that Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—all three are different manifestations of the same supreme entity (Kaal).

The Essence of the Mystery of Vishnu’s Father

When we ask, “Who is the father of Lord Vishnu?”, the answer cannot be given from a worldly perspective alone. He was born out of the will of Kaal, manifested through the power of Durga, and is Himself a part of the Parabrahma.

Thus, from a mythological viewpoint, Kaal (Brahma) can be regarded as the father of Vishnu, and Durga as His mother.

In this article, you have learned how questions like who is Fathe of Vishnu? can be understood from a spiritual and mythological perspective. Lord Vishnu is eternal and self-born, whose glory and mysteries are vast and profound. You can also read our other articles, such as The 10 Avatars of Lord Vishnu and The Significance of Vishnu Sahasranama, which will deepen your devotion even further.

FAQ

Do Lord Vishnu Have Parents?

Yes, according to mythological stories, Kaal (Father) and Durga (Mother) are considered His parents.

Does Vishnu take birth?

Who is Kaal?

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