Why are Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva Immortal but not Lord Brahma?
After a certain time, the universe dissolves into a black hole before it is created again. It means the universe dies for some time. That is why Lord Brahma is considered a mortal. Also sometimes Lord Brahma is depicted as an old man, which symbolizes the shrinking of the universe.
But the matter (Lord Vishnu) does not die. It is only concentrated at a single point (Lord Shiva). Hence, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are considered immortal.
4. Why is a Shiva lingam black mostly?
It is because of the color of a black hole.
5. Why is Lord Shiva called Mahakala?
Mahakala means beyond time/death. From the viewpoint of an observer outside the black hole, time stops in the black hole. Black holes are nearly indestructible. Theoretically, black holes may evaporate because of Hawking radiation, but it would take much longer than the entire age of the universe. If two black holes come closer to one another, they would merge to form a bigger black hole. Also, the primordial black hole is perpetual. Therefore, we can say that a black hole is beyond time/death.
6. Why is a vessel full of water/milk hung over a Shiva lingam?
The religious reason behind it is Lord Shiva is Abhishek Priya – one who likes an auspicious bath, and also, it cools and soothes his body from the heat produced due to the Halahala poison. Actually, it symbolizes the constant consumption of matter and energy by a black hole!
7. Is Hiranyagarbha the initial singularity?
We have seen that both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are symbolized by the Hiranyagarbha. According to the Vedas, the universe originated from it, and according to modern science, the universe originated from the initial singularity. Therefore, Hiranyagarbha is nothing but a black hole out of which the whole universe is born.
We know that Hiranyagarbha is golden in color. It is so because of its high temperature. According to the Big Bang theory, the universe at the beginning was very hot, small, and dense. Hot things look yellowish or golden in color. Therefore, we can say that Hiranyagarbha is the initial singularity. That is why a Banalinga is worshiped and is considered more sacred.