The idea that the universe is equated with God stems from certain philosophical and spiritual perspectives. It is important to note that this belief is not universally held and there are various interpretations and understandings of the concept of God.
Pantheism: In pantheistic beliefs, the universe itself is considered divine or sacred. According to this perspective, God and the universe are inseparable, and everything that exists is part of the divine essence. Nature and the cosmos are seen as manifestations of the divine.
Panentheism: Panentheism shares similarities with pantheism but posits that God is more than just the universe. It suggests that God transcends the physical universe while also being immanent within it. In this view, the universe is seen as an expression or manifestation of God's being.
Non-Dualistic Traditions: Some philosophical and spiritual traditions, such as Advaita Vedanta and certain branches of mysticism, emphasize the concept of non-duality. According to these teachings, there is a fundamental oneness or unity that underlies all existence. In this view, God or the divine is considered the underlying reality from which the universe emerges.
It's important to recognize that these perspectives represent specific philosophical and spiritual frameworks. They may differ from traditional religious conceptions of God found in organized religions. Different individuals and cultures have diverse beliefs and interpretations regarding the nature of God and the universe.
Ultimately, whether one considers the universe as God or sees God as separate from the universe is a deeply personal and subjective matter, shaped by individual beliefs, cultural influences, and personal experiences.