Atrributes

Everything in this universe has two elements namely a) one that enables everything to function (“Purusha”) and b) one that functions (Prakriti) as the manifestation of the basic element that enables everything to function. One that functions is also known as “Shetra” or “field” and another that enables is known as “Shetrajna”, one that pervades all that functions. What are the attributes of those that function? What is known as Macrocosm is the collective functioning of all that was created, and Microcosm is the individual components, a collection of which constitutes Macrocosm. Both collective and individual components are powered by Purusha. What defies the logic is how can something that is known as larger than Macrocosm be in each Microcosm as well?

According to Samkhya philosophy taught in Bhagavad Gita, there are three attributes that exist in all, including humans, in various degrees of concentration and combination. They also exist in all objects and natural products. Depending on the relative strengths and ratios, the attributes determine the nature of things, beings, their actions, behavior, attitude and attachments and their involvement with the objective world in which they live. The primary purpose of the attributes in the living beings is to obfuscate the Truth and create a bondage, through desires for sense objects, which leads to various attachments with them and which in turn keep them bound to the world and under the perpetual control of Prakriti.

These attributes are born from Prakriti. Generally, in our colloquial explanation we mention that divinity resides in each Microcosm. Realistically, all three attributes known as Satvic, Rajasic and Tamosic in the individual and Prakriti level reside in Purusha. There is only one without a second and all that was created is manifestation. When Tamosic quality is dominant, the component remains dormant and ignorant where the progressiveness is non-existent and when Rajasic quality is dominant, it performs actions through passion and desires which in turn creates cause and effect and an illusion that all actions are controlled by the component. When one is in Satvic quality, it delves into the knowledge of Purusha realizing the oneness of everything even though it is a temporary realization. Satvic quality gives the glimpse of blissful state and the burning desire to pursue it.

How do humans overcome these attributes that bind them? The parents can help their children to develop Satvic quality so that when they grow up, they will not only have pleasant and positive experiences but also right discretion in making their choices. If one pursues academic career according to the dominant nature, one will not suffer from conflict or stress and will have a better chance to succeed in life. Choosing a profession carefully according to one’s nature is essential and a chosen profession which conflicts with the nature can result in spiritual downfall. This selection should be supplemented by the life partner and friends one chooses by deciding whether it would be to compensate a nature that lacks requiring a balance or nature that need to be complimented. Lastly, the food habits will have to be conducive to the cultivation of Satvic quality. Why is it essential for human beings to develop dominant Satvic quality?

Satvic quality is the gateway for one to realize the Truth behind the manifestation and overcome the illusion (“Maya”) that dominates during the manifestation stage. Satvic quality improves the vigor and the brilliance of the mind and body to penetrate the illusion. One can realize the true potential only by piercing through this illusion to see the brilliance of the light that illuminates all lives. There is a natural appetite for every human being to excel to the highest level of knowledge and happiness in life. All one needs to do is to break the shackles to remove himself from the captivity of worldly desires and pursuit of happiness through sense objects which results in attachments that bind one permanently to the prison of illusion.

Why should one remain oblivious to the Truth behind the existence? Why can’t one search for this placid centeredness that empowers the humanity? The purpose of life is to find this Truth and why should one dwell in this covert illusion? Why the humanity lacks the tenacity to overcome the enigma of illusion and resign to it as a way of life? Why should humanity look at knowledge and happiness within the confines of illusion when by overcoming this illusion, the humanity can become irreversibly placed in the reservoir of knowledge and infinite bliss and eradicate sufferings? One needs to make an effort without giving up.

 

Dear Smt. Jayasala:

Thank you for your wonderful response explaining what is given in Vedas. The question is, in real life, do we look for clarity or accept confusion as blissful? How do we remain a good human being when we experience pain, suffering and confusion in life? Is it possible to be blissful while we face difficulties one after another?

 

Dear Hari Sir,

It is a complicated subject.

 

Dear Smt. Jayasala:

I have so much respect for your spiritual knowledge and your opinions on my threads. There is no scope to get hurt by your responses. I revere you for your knowledge and I only seek blessings from you. Definitely, you don't need to apologize to me as you have expressed your deep understanding of Gunas and how they function.

My questions are more to learn from you than challenging your views.

I definitely understand your perspective and I am not only humbled by your words of appreciation which will encourage me to write more but also take it as your blessings.

Viswa

 

Thank you for your feedback that these kind of topices are interesting to read and makes you think deeply. I sincerely appreciate your response here.