Theories of cosmic time in the Mahābhārata

Thesis

This thesis presents an examination of the Indian theories of cosmic time as they are found in the Mahabharata. It looks at the theories in detail and analyses their essential characteristics and structures of its three main elements: the divisions of time; the cycle of creation and destruction; and the characteristics of the four yugas. Special attention is paid to aspects of the theory that have been little explored, such as the nature of the cyclical repetition; the relationship between...

Expand abstract

Authors: Thomas, LK

• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: cosmic time; Mahābhārata; Hinduism; Religious aspects
• Subjects: Time -- Religious aspects -- Hinduism; Mahābhārata -- Criticism, interpretation, etc