Yoga Philosophy

Author(s): Virchand R Gandhi, Bhagu F Karbhari
Publisher: Devchand Lalbhai Pustakoddhar Fund

Page 24

MYSTICISM IN INDIA
he whole of the phenomena of the universe and the dea of a Creator is looked upon by the Sankhyas as a nere redundant phantom of philosophy. Purushasouls are each a centre of simple consciousness, being ver unchangeable and unique. Prakriti-matter is that ubstratum wherein the three properties Sattva-pasivity, Rajas-energy or activity, and Tamas-grossness exist in a state of equilibrium. Energy moves the other two and evolution begins. From the first differentiation of Prakriti proceeds Mahat or the germ of individuality, which gives birth to Ahankara or individuality proper. Ahankara from its passive and gross sides produces under the influence of energy the eleven organs of perception and action, internal and external and five states --(Tanmatras) preceding material formation. From the Tanmatras are evolved the five definite material elements, Akasha, Vayu, Tejas, Jala and Prithvi, the five states of matter properly speaking which enter into the formation of things. These are the 24 forms of Prakriti which with the Purush-soul make up the 25 elements into which the Sankhya resolves the whole Universe.
All pain is the result of Rajas; all grossness, ignorance, darkness of Tamas; all pleasure, passivity, knowledge, peace of Sattva. The mind is a result of Rajas, and it is Sattva alone which by its light illumines it and enables it at times to catch glimpses of the blissful Purusha-soul ever near to Sattva. All experience consists of mental representation the Sattva