Adi Purusha

Adi Purusha, meaning 'Original Being' in Sanskrit, is the primordial consciousness from which all of creation emanates. In Vedic cosmology, the concept is first introduced in the Purusha Sukta (Rigveda 10.90), which describes the cosmic being Purusha as the source of the universe, from whose sacrifice the Vedas, the four varnas, and the cosmic order arise. This hymn establishes Purusha as both immanent and transcendent, pervading all existence yet exceeding it. In Vaishnava tradition, Adi Purusha is identified with Lord Vishnu or Narayana, the supreme reality.

The Bhagavata Purana (1.3.1) states: 'In the beginning of creation, the Lord expanded Himself in the form of the Purusha incarnation, the original source of all material and spiritual worlds.' This Purusha is the first of the three purusha avataras (Karanodakashayi Vishnu, Garbhodakashayi Vishnu, and Kshirodakashayi Vishnu) who facilitate creation. The Vishnu Purana (1.2.1) describes Narayana as the ultimate cause, lying on the cosmic waters, from whom the lotus-born Brahma emerges. Iconographically, Adi Purusha is depicted as Vishnu or Narayana, often shown reclining on the serpent Ananta Shesha in the cosmic ocean, or as the cosmic Purusha with thousands of heads, eyes, and feet, symbolizing his omnipresence. He is associated with the color blue, representing infinity, and holds the conch, discus, mace, and lotus, each symbolizing aspects of creation, preservation, and destruction.

Adi Purusha is also equated with the Supreme Consciousness (Para Brahman) in Advaita Vedanta, though theistic traditions emphasize his personal form. Regional worship is pan-Indian within Vaishnavism, with major temples dedicated to Vishnu as Venkateswara, Ranganatha, and Jagannath. Festivals such as Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrate his grace. In Hindu cosmology, Adi Purusha is the first cause, the source of all deities and beings, and the ultimate goal of liberation.

His consort is Adi Shakti, the primordial energy, and his vahana is Garuda, the eagle. The Vishnu Sahasranama enumerates his thousand names, affirming his supremacy.

Depicted as Vishnu, Narayana, or the cosmic Purusha.