Paramhans (परमहंस)
Paramhans is an exalted saint fully absorbed in God. Learn how the title applies to both Nirakar Brahm and Sakar Brahm.
Paramhans (परमहंस | paramahaṁsa) literally means “supreme hansa.” A hansa is traditionally compared to a swan that can separate milk from water, symbolizing spiritual discrimination. A Paramhansa is therefore an exalted saint whose mind is fully absorbed in God and untouched by worldly attachment.
The Supreme God has eternally exists in two forms:
- Nirakar Brahm (formless) and
- Sakar Brahm (with form).
Accordingly, the title Paramhansa is also used in two principal senses, depending upon whether one's mind is fully absorbed in Nirakar Brahm or Sakar Brahm.
When absorbed in Nirakar Brahm (Non-Duality)
Gyanis follow Advait Vaad (non-duality) and wish to merge Nirakar Brahm and aspire to become one with Him. When a person's mind becomes completely absorbed in Nirakar Brahm, that person is called a Paramhansa of Advait Vaad.
Examples: Shukdev Paramhans, King Janak, Sage Shaunk, and Shankaracharya.
When absorbed in Sakar Brahm (The Bhakti Path)
Bhaktas worship Sakar Brahm (God with form) through loving devotion. When a devotee's mind becomes completely absorbed in Sakar Brahm, that person is also called a Paramhans. The Bhagavat also refers to such devotees as Shri Paramhansa.
Example: The Gopis. They were so immersed in the thoughts of Shri Krishna that they could not distinguish themselves from Him, demonstrating the highest form of selfless love.
Since both states represent complete absorption in the Divine, the title Paramhansa is applied in both contexts.
