Madhvaon Brahma Sūtra 3.2.21

From the Sruti, “ Then, therefore, begins the en- quiry into the gradation of blissfulness ” (Tait. II. 8.), difference of degree is clearly seen in the bliss enjoyed by the souls from the best of men upwards to Brahma the four-faced. The Smriti indicated by ‘and* is, “ According as the intensity of devotion to the Lord of lords is seen to differ here (while in this world, or among the wise), the gradation is seen also (in the enjoyment) of bliss in heaven by the (released) souls after the destruction of the Lingadeha (or subtle body)." ’ It may be stated that the Lord is the author only of creation and destruction (or the destruction of what is created); but protection too need not be attributed to Him; for'protection or continuance of things as created is in the very nature (of the world) till destruction. To correct this view the Sutrakara says: