parinamvaad | परिणामवाद

Parinamavada (Devanagari: परिणामवाद; ISO 15919: pariṇāmavāda) refers to the doctrine of Actual Transformation.

Often discussed in Vedantic philosophy alongside Advaita Vedanta, this theory proposes that Brahm (God) literally transformed Himself to become the material world.

The Milk Analogy This concept is illustrated using the example of milk turning into yogurt (curd):

• The Process: When milk transforms into yogurt, it undergoes a chemical change.
• The Result: Once the transformation is complete, the milk ceases to exist in its original form; only the yogurt remains.
• The Application: According to this view, Brahm undergoes a similar modification to become the universe.

Philosophical Critique Jagadguruttam Swami Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj asserts that this is not a sound theory because it contradicts the fundamental nature of the Divine as described in the Vedas:

• Immutability: The Vedas declare Brahm to be eternal, unchangeable, and unaltered (Avikari).
• The Contradiction: If Brahm were to transform like milk into curd, He would cease to exist in His original eternal form. Since the Vedas state that Brahm remains complete and unchanged even after creation, the theory of Actual Transformation is considered flawed in this context.

Further Reading and Reference

• Related Concepts: vivartvaad
• reference: Who am I? Who is Mine? Vol. 1, Ch. 5