Unit 3: Samkhya Metaphysics

1. Satkaryavada (Theory of Causation)

Before explaining the world, Samkhya establishes its theory of cause and effect. Satkaryavada argues that the effect pre-exists in its material cause in a latent form.

2. Prakriti and the Three Gunas

Prakriti is the ultimate cause of the material world. It is one, eternal, and unconscious (Jada). It is composed of three forces called Gunas:

• Sattva: Purity, light, and joy.
• Rajas: Activity, passion, and pain.
• Tamas: Darkness, inertia, and ignorance.

When the Gunas are in equilibrium (Samyavastha), there is no world. When the balance is disturbed, evolution begins.

3. Purusha (The Pure Consciousness)

If Prakriti is the "Object," Purusha is the "Subject." Purusha is the self, the silent witness (Sakshi). Characteristics include:

• It is eternal, unchanging, and beyond the Gunas.
• It is not a "doer" but an "enjoyer" (Bhokta).
• Plurality of Souls: Unlike Advaita Vedanta, Samkhya believes there are many Purushas, as evidenced by the different births, deaths, and experiences of individuals.

4. The Theory of Evolution

Evolution starts when Purusha comes into "proximity" with Prakriti (like a magnet moving iron). Prakriti evolves into 23 more elements, making a total of 25 Tattvas.

1. Mahat (Buddhi): The cosmic intellect.
2. Ahankara: The ego or "I-consciousness."
3. Manas: The mind.
4. 10 Organs: 5 sense organs (Jnanendriya) and 5 action organs (Karmendriya).
5. 5 Tanmatras: Subtle essences of sound, touch, color, taste, and smell.
6. 5 Mahabhutas: The gross elements (Ether, Air, Fire, Water, Earth).

5. Kaivalya (Liberation)

Bondage occurs when Purusha mistakenly identifies itself with Prakriti (Ego and Body). Kaivalya is attained through Viveka-jnana (discriminative knowledge)—the realization that Purusha is completely separate from Prakriti.