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How does Dvaita Vedanta define the nature and attributes of God (Vishnu)?

In the Dvaita Vedanta universe, Vishnu isn’t just another cosmic force—He’s the supreme, independent reality, the very heartbeat behind everything else. Nothing springs up without His nod, and nothing exists apart from His will. Souls, the material world—each has its own identity, but all are utterly dependent on His infinite presence.

Five eternal distinctions set the stage: God versus souls, God versus matter, souls versus souls, souls versus matter, and matter in its own right. Like brilliant threads in a woven tapestry, these differences stay forever intact; there’s no dissolving individual sparks into a cosmic bonfire, as some other philosophies suggest.

Vishnu’s attributes shine bright: omniscience (jnana), omnipotence (bala), sovereignty (aiśvarya), relentless energy (virya), dazzling splendor (tejas), unwavering will (sankalpa), and boundless compassion (dayā). Toss in mercy, righteousness, steadfastness and more—twelve in all—and the picture is of a God who’s both majestic and intimately caring. Each quality is literally part of His essence, not mere poetic labels.

This personal God isn’t locked in some ethereal ivory tower. He hears the humble prayer of a fisherman on the banks of the Kaveri just as keenly as the grand hymns chanted in Udupi temples. In fact, modern Vedanta circles often point to live-streamed archana ceremonies and digital bhajan sessions—proof that His presence adapts with the times, meeting seekers wherever they tune in.

No talk of ultimate reality here drifts into cold abstraction. Instead, there’s a tangible, heart-to-heart bond: a living God, brimming with qualities that invite both awe and affection. It’s like a favorite song that never wears out—each repeat reveals fresh layers of joy, purpose, and hope.