[472] There is much diversity of statement as to whether there are one or many Śaktis.
[473] Vishṇu is the name of God in all his aspects, but especially God as the absolute. Vâsudeva is used both of God as the absolute and also as the first emanation (Vyûha).
[474] Kriyâśakti and Bhûtiśakti.
[475] Jñâna, aiśvarya, śakti, bala, vîrya, tejas. These are called guṇas but are not to be confounded with the three ordinary guṇas.
[476] The words seem to have been originally proper names. See the articles in the Petersburg Lexicon.
[477] Nârâyaṇa like Vishṇu is used to designate more than one aspect of God. Sometimes it denotes the Absolute.
[478] The above brief sketch is based on Schrader's Int. to the Pâncarâtra where the reader can find full details.
[479] Comment on Vedânta sûtras, II. 2. 42.
[480] And, as Schrader observes, the evolutionary system of the Pâncarâtra is practically concerned with only one force, the Śakti, which under the name Bhûti is manifested as the Universe and as Kriyâ vitalizes and governs it (p. 31).
[481] On Sutta-nipâta, 790, 792. The doctrine of the Vyûhas is expounded in the Mahâbhârata Śântip. CCCXL. 36 ff., 70 ff.; CCCXLI. 26 ff.