The Vedic perspective on creation offers an alternative explanation to the scientific theory of evolution. According to the Vedic scriptures, the Universe has a cyclical nature, and its current age is 155.522 trillion years. This Universe is just a fraction of the entire creation, as there are millions of other Universes with countless planets and living beings. In contrast to the scientific theory, the Vedic scriptures describe the existence of a higher spiritual realm known as Vaikuntha, which constitutes three-quarters of creation.
The lifespan of the Universe is based on the life of Brahma, the engineer of the Universe. Each day of Brahma lasts for 4.32 billion years, and during this time, there are partial creations and annihilations. We are currently halfway through the day of Brahma, which means our existence in the current cycle spans approximately 2.16 billion years. This cycle will continue until the end of Brahma's life, which is 311 trillion and 40 billion years. After this, there will be a complete annihilation, followed by the emergence of a new Brahma and another cycle of creation.
The Vedic scriptures also provide insights into the diversity of life forms. There are a total of 8.4 million species in all of creation, including aquatic creatures, plants, insects, birds, beasts, and human beings. It's important to note that not all of these species exist on our planet Earth.
Additionally, the Vedic scriptures describe four ages, known as Yugas, which follow one after another. The first age is Satya Yuga, characterized by truth and adherence to the Vedic religion. This age lasts for 1.728 million years, and humans have a lifespan of up to 100,000 years. The second age, Treta Yuga, introduces ignorance, but the Vedic religion still prevails. Its duration is 1.296 million years, and human lifespans decrease to 10,000 years. In Dvapara Yuga, truth and religious values further decline, and humans live for about 1,000 years. Finally, Kali Yuga, the current age, represents a period of irreligion and ignorance. Religious principles are greatly diminished, and the Vedic religion becomes the only surviving faith with few followers. Over time, atheism becomes widespread, leading to moral degradation. Kali Yuga spans 432,000 years, and human lifespans are limited to 100 years. We are currently 5,000 years into Kali Yuga.
The Vedic scriptures also present evidence that humans have existed for millions of years. Numerous fossils and skeletal remains of humans dating back millions of years can be found in museums worldwide, supporting the idea of human antiquity.
It is essential to recognize the significant differences between Vedic and non-Vedic teachings. The Vedic scriptures are considered eternal and are believed to originate from the Supreme Being. Their status as the oldest scriptures on the planet reinforces their claim to absolute truth.
In conclusion, the Vedic perspective on creation offers a comprehensive and cyclical view of the Universe's existence. It provides insights into the vastness of creation, the cycles of creation and annihilation, the diversity of life forms, and the progression of ages known as Yugas. While differing from the scientific theory of evolution, the Vedic scriptures present a distinct worldview that accounts for the spiritual dimension and the ongoing cycles of creation and annihilation.