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Mahavira & Self Concept / 49
10. Self and Samkhya Yoga
Samkhya Yoga system is non-theistic, and also dualistic. It teaches a clear dualism between purusa and prakriti. It does not recognize the existence of God. Prakriti and purusa are eternal realities. Purusa is understood as the self. But it is different from body, mind, senses and other elements. The real purusa is timeless, changeless and selfluminous. If seeks to expound a way leading to freedom from suffering. The cause of bondage is the contact between prakriti and purusa. It is the ego, the product of prakriti, which is bondage. The knowledge of the discrimination between prakriti and purusa is essential for achieving liberation. Bondage of the self is due to ignorance.
