Time cycles in Hinduism : Years in every Yug

In Hindu cosmology, time is cyclical and is divided into four main epochs or Yugas, which repeat in a cycle known as a Mahayuga. Each Mahayuga consists of four Yugas, and a thousand Mahayugas form a Kalpa. The duration of each Yuga, Mahayuga, and Kalpa varies according to different Hindu scriptures, but here are the commonly accepted durations:

1. Yugas:
   • Satya Yuga (or Krita Yuga): 1,728,000 years
   • Treta Yuga: 1,296,000 years
   • Dvapara Yuga: 864,000 years
   • Kali Yuga: 432,000 years
2. Mahayuga (Great Age):
   • One Mahayuga consists of a cycle of all four Yugas.
   • Total duration: 4,320,000 years (1,000 times the duration of Kali Yuga)
3. Manvantara:
   • Each Manvantara is ruled by a specific Manu and consists of 71 Mahayugas.
   • Total duration: 306,720,000 years (71 Mahayugas)
4. Kalpa:
   • A Kalpa is a day of Brahma, the creator god, and consists of 1,000 Mahayugas.
   • Total duration: 4,320,000,000 years (1,000 Mahayugas)
5. Maha Kalpa:
   • A Maha Kalpa is the lifespan of Brahma.
   • Total duration: 311,040,000,000,000 years (100 years of Brahma, each consisting of 360 days)

These durations are considered cosmological time frames and are used in Hindu cosmology to explain the cyclical nature of creation, existence, and dissolution. They symbolize the eternal and cyclical nature of the universe according to Hindu beliefs.

Some additional details about time in Hindu cosmology:

1. Sandhya and Sandhyansa: Each Yuga is preceded and succeeded by a transitional period known as Sandhya and Sandhyansa, respectively. These periods are as follows:
   • Sandhya (dawn): 10% of the Yuga's duration
   • Yuga: 100% of the Yuga's duration
   • Sandhyansa (dusk): 10% of the Yuga's duration
2. Yuga Cycles: The cycle of Yugas repeats indefinitely. After Kali Yuga, the cycle begins again with Satya Yuga.
3. Lifespan of Beings: The lifespan of beings gradually decreases as the Yugas progress. In Satya Yuga, humans live for thousands of years, while in Kali Yuga, the average human lifespan is much shorter.
4. Dawn of Satya Yuga: According to some texts, Satya Yuga begins when the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter are in conjunction in the first point of Aries (the vernal equinox). This phenomenon is known as the "Dawn of Satya Yuga" or "Satya Yuga Sandhi."
5. End of Kali Yuga: It is believed that at the end of Kali Yuga, Lord Kalki, the tenth avatar of Lord Vishnu, will appear to restore righteousness and usher in a new cycle of Satya Yuga.
6. Time Measurement: Time in Hindu cosmology is not only measured in years but also in other units such as Kalpas (eon), Manvantaras (epoch), and Chaturyugas (cycle of four Yugas).
7. Cycles of Creation and Dissolution: The concept of time in Hindu cosmology is intimately linked with the cycles of creation, preservation, and dissolution of the universe. These cycles repeat infinitely, reflecting the eternal nature of existence according to Hindu philosophy.

These additional details provide a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate concept of time in Hindu cosmology and its significance in the cyclical nature of the universe. 

Some more units :

• Kranti= 34,000th part in a second
• Truti = 300th part in a second (lava or less)
• Truti = Time required to integrate 3 Trasarenu = 1/1687.5 seconds.
• 100 Truti = 1 Vedha (Bodh)
• 3 Bodh = 1 Lava
• 3 Lava = 1 Nimesh
• 3 Nimesh = 1 Kshna
• 5 Kshna = 1 Kashtha
• 15 Kashtha = 1 Laghu
• 15 Laghu = 1 Ghadi
• 2 Ghadi = 1 Muhuratha
• 3 Muhuratha = 1 Prahar
• 8 Prahar = 1 Day
• 15 Days = 1 Paksha
• 2 Paksha = 1 Month
• 2 Month = 1 Ritu (season)
• 3 Ritu = 1 Ayana
• 2 Ayana = 1 Year Human year (H-years)
• 360 Human years = 1 Deva-Varsha (1 year of Devatas)
• 4.32(4.32 x1)  lakh Human-years = 1 Kali Yuga
• 8.64(4.32 x2) lakh Human-years = 1 Dwapar Yuga
• 12.96(4.32 x3) lakh Human-years = 1 Treta Yuga
• 17.28(4.32 x4) lakh Human-years = 1 Sat Yuga
• 43.20 lakh Human-years = 1 Mahayuga/1 Chaturyuga (Sum of 4 yugas)
• 71 Chatur Yugas = 1 Manvantara (Age of 1 Manu, Time 1 Manu rules)
• 14 Manvantara + 15 Sandhi-kala = 1 Kalpa (1 daytime of Brahma/1 night-time of Brahma / 12 hours of Brahma)
• 1 Sandhi-kala = 1 Sat yuga = 17.28 lakh H-years
• 2 Kalpa = 1 DAY (24 hours) of Lord Brahma (86400 Lakh H-years)
• 100 years of Brahma (Age of this universe) = 311.05 Trillion H-years

Here are some more aspects related to time in Hindu cosmology:

1. Day of Brahma: A day in the life of Brahma, the creator deity, consists of 14 Manus (each Manu presides over one Manvantara), and each Manvantara is followed by a night of equal duration, during which the universe is dissolved.
2. Night of Brahma: The night of Brahma is as long as his day, and during this time, the universe is in a state of dissolution or pralaya. At the end of Brahma's night, creation begins anew.
3. Brahma's Lifespan: The lifespan of Brahma, known as a Mahakalpa, consists of 100 years, each of which contains 360 days (each day being equivalent to a Kalpa). At the end of Brahma's lifespan, the universe undergoes total dissolution.
4. Time Scales Beyond Brahma: Hindu cosmology also describes time scales beyond the lifespan of Brahma. These include the existence of other universes (brahmandas) within the infinite expanse of space and time.
5. Timelessness of the Absolute: While Hindu cosmology provides a detailed framework for understanding cosmic time cycles, it also emphasizes the timeless nature of the Absolute (Brahman), which transcends all temporal distinctions and remains eternal and unchanging.
6. Krishna, Muhurta, and Other Units: Hindu scriptures mention various units of time measurement, ranging from the smallest unit called a Kshana (approx. 1/60th of a second) to larger units like Muhurta (48 minutes) and Yugadi (the start of a Yuga).
7. Astrological Timekeeping: The movement of celestial bodies, such as the Sun, Moon, planets, and constellations, plays a significant role in Hindu astrology and timekeeping. The positions of these celestial bodies are used to determine auspicious timings for rituals, ceremonies, and other activities.

These additional aspects deepen the understanding of time in Hindu cosmology, highlighting its multidimensional nature and its interplay with cosmic creation, preservation, and dissolution.

Aspects related to time in Hindu cosmology:

1. Yugas within a Day of Brahma: According to some interpretations, each day of Brahma is divided into fourteen periods called Manvantaras, each presided over by a Manu. Each Manvantara consists of 71 Mahayugas.
2. Chaturyugas within Human Life: Hindu scriptures often use the metaphor of the Chaturyugas (four Yugas) to symbolize the stages of human life. For example, childhood is compared to Satya Yuga, youth to Treta Yuga, middle age to Dvapara Yuga, and old age to Kali Yuga.
3. Time Flow in Different Lokas: Time flows differently in different Lokas (realms) within Hindu cosmology. For instance, one day in Swarga (heaven) is equivalent to one year on Earth.
4. Time as an Illusion: Hindu philosophy, particularly Advaita Vedanta, teaches that time, like the rest of the phenomenal world, is ultimately an illusion (Maya). The true nature of reality, according to this perspective, transcends the limitations of time and space.
5. Timelessness of the Self: While the physical universe operates within the framework of time and space, the Atman (individual soul) is said to be timeless and eternal. It is beyond the influence of time, existing beyond birth and death.
6. Ritualistic Timekeeping: In Hindu rituals and ceremonies, precise timings are often crucial. Astrological calculations are used to determine auspicious moments for performing rituals, such as weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and sacred rites.
7. Concept of Eternal Recurrence: Some interpretations of Hindu cosmology suggest that time is cyclical not only in the macrocosm but also in the microcosm. Individual souls undergo cycles of birth and rebirth until they attain liberation (Moksha) and transcend the cycle of samsara (reincarnation).

These additional nuances further enrich the understanding of time in Hindu cosmology, highlighting its multidimensional nature and its profound philosophical implications.

Let's explore some additional aspects related to time in Hindu cosmology along with the values associated with them:

1. Cycle of Creation and Destruction (Srishti and Pralaya): Hindu cosmology teaches that the universe goes through cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction. This cyclical view of time emphasizes the impermanence of all things and the necessity of embracing change. It encourages the value of adaptability and resilience in the face of life's inevitable ups and downs.
2. Law of Karma: Time in Hindu cosmology is intricately linked with the concept of Karma, which states that every action has consequences that shape future experiences. Understanding the law of Karma emphasizes the value of mindful living and responsible action, as every moment presents an opportunity to sow seeds of positive karma for future growth and evolution.
3. Eternal Dharma: Timeless principles of righteousness and duty, known as Dharma, are upheld throughout the cosmic cycles in Hindu cosmology. The enduring nature of Dharma underscores the importance of moral integrity, ethical conduct, and selfless service in navigating life's challenges and upholding the greater good.
4. Devotion and Surrender: The stories and teachings within Hindu cosmology often emphasize the value of Bhakti (devotion) and Sharanagati (surrender) to the divine. Surrendering to the divine will and cultivating devotion fosters a sense of trust, humility, and inner peace, helping individuals navigate the passage of time with grace and acceptance.
5. Eternal Quest for Self-Realization: Time in Hindu cosmology is viewed as an opportunity for spiritual growth and self-realization. The cyclical nature of time offers countless opportunities for souls to progress on their spiritual journey, ultimately leading towards liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. This underscores the value of self-reflection, introspection, and inner transformation in the pursuit of higher truths.
6. Living in Harmony with Nature: Hindu cosmology emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the harmony of the cosmos. Recognizing the rhythms of nature and aligning one's life with its cycles fosters a deeper appreciation for the sanctity of time and the value of living in harmony with the natural world.
7. Celebrating Diversity and Unity: Hindu festivals and rituals are often tied to celestial events and cycles of time, celebrating the diversity of cultural traditions while also recognizing the underlying unity of all existence. This promotes inclusivity, cultural diversity, and the celebration of life's sacred moments, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

These values inherent in Hindu cosmology offer timeless wisdom and guidance for leading a purposeful and fulfilling life, grounded in spiritual principles and reverence for the mysteries of time and existence.