There are two schools in : (1) (simultaneous creation) and (2) Drishti srishti (gradual creation).
There is the Tantric Advaita which admits three fundamentals , , —world, soul, God. These three are also real. But the reality does not end with them. It extends beyond. That is the Tantric Advaita. The Reality is limitless. The three fundamentals do not exist apart from the Absolute Reality. All agree that Reality is all-pervading; thus Īśvara pervades the jīva; therefore the jīva has eternal being. His knowledge is not limited. Limited knowledge is only imagined by him. In truth, his is infinite knowledge. Its limit is Silence. This truth was revealed by Dakshināmurti. For those who still perceive these three fundamentals they are said to be realities. They are concomitant with the ego.
True, the images of gods are described in great detail. Such description points only to the final Reality. Otherwise why is the special significance of each detail also given? Think. The image is only a symbol. Only that which lies beyond name and form is Reality. Śaiva Siddhānta and have the common aim of the same Truth. Otherwise how could Śrī Sankaracharya, the greatest exponent of , sing praises of gods? Obviously he did so knowingly.
The questioner earnestly explained that his faith in Śaiva Siddhānta, , etc. was shaken after reading Bahaic literature. “Please save me,” he said.
M.: Know the Self which is here and now; you will be steady and not waver.
D.: The Bahaists read others’ minds.
M.: Yes. That is possible. Your thoughts were read by another. There must be one to know your mind. That is the Truth always present which is to be realised. Truth does not waver.
D.: Show me Grace.
M.: Grace always is, and is not given. Why do you consider the pros and cons of Bahaullah or others being incarnations or otherwise? Know Thyself. Regard everything as Truth. Regard him also as the Truth. Can he exist besides Truth? Your beliefs may change but not Truth.
D.: Show me the truth of Siddhānta etc.
M.: Follow their instructions and then if you have doubts you may ask. Adherence to those instructions will take you only to . Differences are perceived in external objects only. If you follow their instructions all differences will be lost. No one but the son of a king can be called a prince; so also only That which is perfect is called Perfection.
One should not be content with mere discipleship, initiation, ceremony of surrender, etc.; these are external phenomena. Never forget the Truth underlying all phenomena.
D.: What is the significance of the Silence of Dakshināmurti?
M.: Many are the explanations given by scholars and sages. Have it any way you please.