Srimad Bhagavatam — Dvadasha Skandha, Shloka 17
Paramparā of the Atharva Veda and Purāṇas; Definition of a Purāṇa
Daśa-lakṣaṇam
नैमित्तिक: प्राकृतिको नित्य आत्यन्तिको लय: । संस्थेति कविभि: प्रोक्तश्चतुर्धास्य स्वभावत: ॥ १७ ॥
naimittikaḥ prākṛtiko nitya ātyantiko layaḥ saṁstheti kavibhiḥ proktaś caturdhāsya svabhāvataḥ
宇宙的毁灭有四种：偶发的、元素性的、持续的与究竟的；这一切皆由至上主内在的神力所成。博学之士将此主题称为“saṁsthā”，即解体与归寂。
FAQs
This verse states that sages describe four dissolutions—naimittika (occasional), prākṛtika (material), nitya (constant), and ātyantika (ultimate)—and also the universe’s maintenance (saṃsthā).
In the concluding teachings of the Bhāgavatam, Śukadeva clarifies time, creation, maintenance, and dissolution so Parīkṣit can fix his mind on the eternal Lord and transcend fear of death through spiritual understanding.
Ātyantika laya points to liberation—ending the false identification with the temporary body—so one can prioritize devotion, detachment, and remembrance of Bhagavān over anxiety about worldly change.