Tanmatras

Tanmatras are fundamental concepts in Indian philosophy, particularly within the Samkhya and Vedanta schools. They are the subtle elements that are the precursors to the five gross elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) that make up the physical universe. The concept of Tanmatras is crucial in understanding the process of creation and the theory of perception in Indian metaphysical and cosmological theories.

Etymology

The term 'Tanmatra' is derived from the Sanskrit words 'tan', meaning subtle, and 'matra', meaning elements. Thus, Tanmatras are the subtlest form of matter, not perceivable by the senses directly but are the essential substances from which the sensory organs themselves are formed.

Concept

In Samkhya philosophy, which is one of the oldest and most influential schools of Indian philosophy, the universe is described as evolving through several stages. The Tanmatras are the second stage in this process, coming directly after the evolution of the Mahat (cosmic intelligence) and before the formation of the five gross elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether).

The five Tanmatras are:

• Shabda (sound)
• Sparsha (touch)
• Rupa (form or sight)
• Rasa (taste)
• Gandha (smell)

Each Tanmatra is associated with a corresponding sense organ and physical element. For example, Shabda is linked to the ear and the element of ether, Sparsha to the skin and air, Rupa to the eyes and fire, Rasa to the tongue and water, and Gandha to the nose and earth.

Philosophical Significance

The concept of Tanmatras is central to the philosophical understanding of perception in Indian philosophy. According to this view, when an object is perceived, what is actually experienced is not the object itself but the Tanmatras that emanate from the object. These subtle elements are then transmitted to the mind through the sense organs, where they are processed into perceptual experiences.

The Tanmatras also play a crucial role in the theory of Karma and reincarnation, as they are considered the carriers of subtle impressions from past lives that influence one's predispositions and experiences in the current life.

Influence on Other Systems

The concept of Tanmatras has influenced other Indian religious and philosophical systems, including Yoga and Ayurveda. In Yoga, understanding and controlling the flow of Tanmatras is essential in achieving higher states of consciousness. In Ayurveda, the balance of the Tanmatras in the body is crucial for health, as imbalances can lead to disease.

See Also

• Pancha Mahabhutas
• Samkhya
• Vedanta
• Indian philosophy