The Story of Brahma, Vishnu and the Jyotirlinga Once, in the beginning of creation, a debate arose between Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the preserver). Brahma said, “I am the source of creation. From me the universe is born. Therefore, I am supreme.” Vishnu replied, “I sustain all beings and uphold cosmic order. Without preservation, creation has no meaning. Therefore, I am supreme.” The debate slowly turned into pride (ahamkara). The harmony of the cosmos began to tremble because of this conflict between two great forces. At that moment, between them appeared a massive pillar of divine fire and light — endless, blazing, without beginning and without end. This was the Jyotirlinga, the infinite form of Shiva. A celestial voice declared: “Whoever finds the beginning or the end of this pillar shall be known as the greatest.” To resolve the dispute: • Vishnu took the form of Varaha (the divine boar) and dug downward, searching for the base of the pillar. • Brahma took the f...