The Gunas

In Indian philosophy, specifically in Samkhya and Yoga philosophy, the Gunas are the three fundamental qualities or attributes that make up the manifest universe. They are known as Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas, and they are said to be present in everything that exists in the universe, including in the human body, mind and consciousness.

Sattva is considered to be the quality of balance, harmony, and purity. It is associated with light, positivity, and clarity of the mind. A person with a predominance of Sattva is said to be calm, content, and at peace with themselves and the world. They are often described as wise, virtuous, and spiritually inclined. Sattva is considered to be the most desirable of the three Gunas as it leads to the attainment of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual liberation.

Rajas is considered to be the quality of activity and passion. It is associated with energy, movement, and motivation. A person with a predominance of Rajas is said to be active, ambitious, and driven by desire. They are often described as outgoing, energetic, and competitive. Rajas can lead to desire, ambition, and attachment, but if it is balanced it can also lead to success and the attainment of goals.

Tamas is considered to be the quality of inertia and darkness. It is associated with ignorance, darkness, and lethargy. A person with a predominance of Tamas is said to be dull, inactive, and lacking in motivation. They are often described as lazy, indifferent, and lacking in direction. Tamas can lead to ignorance, apathy, and spiritual ignorance but when in balance it can provide stability and structure.

In conclusion, the Gunas are the three fundamental qualities or attributes that make up the manifest universe. Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas, are said to be present in everything that exists in the universe, including in the human body, mind and consciousness. Sattva represents balance, harmony, and purity. Rajas represents activity and passion, while Tamas represents inertia and darkness. The balance of the gunas is considered to be important for both mental and physical well-being. The goal of spiritual development, in Yoga and Samkhya, is to transcend the influence of the gunas and to reach a state of consciousness that is beyond their influence.