Prakṛti

Prakṛti (Sanskrit: प्रकृति) is a fundamental concept in Indian philosophy, particularly within the Samkhya school, where it is considered the basic material substance of the universe. Prakṛti, in this context, is the source of the various forms of matter and the physical world. It is contrasted with Purusha, the principle of consciousness or spirit. The interaction between Prakṛti and Purusha is central to the Samkhya view of cosmogenesis and the evolution of the universe.

Definition and Nature

Prakṛti is often translated as "nature" or "matter," but these translations only partially capture the full scope of the concept. It is the primal matter with three different innate qualities (Gunas): Sattva (goodness, constructive, harmonious), Rajas (passion, active, confused), and Tamas (darkness, destructive, chaotic). These qualities are in a constant state of flux and imbalance, which is the cause of all physical and psychological changes in the universe.

Prakṛti in Samkhya Philosophy

In Samkhya philosophy, Prakṛti is the first principle (tattva) that manifests itself into various forms. It is eternal, uncaused, and independent but is also inert and cannot manifest without the influence of Purusha. The purpose of Prakṛti is said to be the enjoyment (bhoga), liberation (moksha), and evolution of Purusha. According to Samkhya, the entire universe is a manifestation of Prakṛti, which undergoes transformation to create the diverse forms of existence, including the physical elements, the mind, the senses, and the sense objects.

Components of Prakṛti

Prakṛti is composed of three fundamental Gunas, which are not merely qualities but are substantive constituents of Prakṛti itself. The balance and interplay of these Gunas determine the nature of the universe at any given moment. From Prakṛti, evolves the Mahat or the great principle, which is the first product of evolution and represents cosmic intelligence. Following Mahat, the sense of "I-ness" or Ahamkara emerges, leading to the development of the five subtle elements (Tanmatras), the five gross elements (Mahabhutas), the five sense organs, and the five organs of action.

Prakṛti and Purusha

The concept of Prakṛti cannot be fully understood without reference to Purusha, the principle of consciousness. In Samkhya, Purusha is seen as the silent witness, unaffected and uninvolved with the material world. The interaction between Purusha and Prakṛti is what gives rise to the manifest world. Liberation (moksha) in Samkhya philosophy is achieved when the Purusha realizes its true nature as distinct from Prakṛti and its modifications.

Conclusion

Prakṛti plays a crucial role in Indian philosophy, providing a framework for understanding the material universe and its relationship with consciousness. Its concept has influenced various Indian religious and philosophical traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, each interpreting and integrating the concept in different ways.