Dear Kathy, I failed to elaborate on the concept of "Avatar".In the
scripturs, seven planes of counciousness have been described.These
planes are termed as "Bhumikas".We, the ordinary human beings are
seldom able to experiance the 2nd, 3rd and so on..planes unless we
have urge within and Grace of God. As I have understood it,this is
the basic difference between a human, Saints. Sidhas,and God.All high
souls you have pointed out, to my understanding and realisation can
not be equated with God, but belonging to 4th, 5th or 6th plane of
conciousness.When God. the same Absolute One, who have been described
by vedas as "neti neti", for the sake of Divine Will embodies Himself
into Human form, He is termed as an "Avatar", the God Incarnate. I
think I may have myself clear.
lots of love
> > Satish