About the three Gunas - Sattva, Rajas and Tamas

Summary

Swamiji discusses the three fundamental Gunas in Hindu philosophy: Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas, which are the building blocks of creation. These Gunas are essential for understanding the material world and are relevant to various disciplines, including Ayurveda and Yoga. The goal for spiritual aspirants is to transcend the Gunas, starting with reducing Tamas and moving towards Sattva, which is crucial for self-realization and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Takeaways

• 📚 The three Gunas - Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas - are the fundamental building blocks of creation, similar to the atomic model in science.
• 🌟 Sattva represents purity and light, Rajas is associated with passion and activity, while Tamas is linked to ignorance and darkness.
• 🔬 These Gunas are also known as Maya Shakti, Prakrti, or Kshetra and are the material cause behind the creation.
• 🌱 The five elements - Space, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth - are derived from these Gunas and form the basis of all objects in creation.
• 🧘‍♂️ Knowledge of the Gunas is essential for spiritual aspirants as it helps in transcending the cycle of birth and death, or Samsara.
• 🌟 Sattva is considered the superior Guna, followed by Rajas, and then Tamas, which is the least desirable.
• 🔄 The goal is to reduce Tamas and Rajas in one's life and increase Sattva for spiritual growth.
• 🍽️ Even our food, thoughts, and activities are expressions of these Gunas, influencing our inner and outer life.
• 📈 The Vedic model of the Gunas finds application in various disciplines like Ayurveda, Yoga, and ancient sciences.
• 🔮 Transcending the Gunas is the primary goal for a seeker of self-knowledge, as it leads to liberation from Samsara.

Q & A

What are the three Gunas mentioned in the script?

The three Gunas mentioned in the script are Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas.

What is the significance of the three Gunas in creation?

The three Gunas are considered the fundamental building blocks of creation and are also referred to as Maya Shakti, Prakrti, or Kshetra. They are responsible for the creation of the five elements: Space, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth.

How does the model of the three Gunas relate to modern science?

The script suggests that the model of the three Gunas is similar to the atomic model in science, providing insight into the creation in a way that the atomic structure gives insight into matter and its properties.

In what ways do the three Gunas find application in various disciplines?

The three Gunas find applications in disciplines like Ayurveda, Yoga, and ancient sciences such as physics, chemistry, and biology.

What is the importance of understanding the three Gunas according to Lord Krishna?

Understanding the three Gunas is essential for a person seeking liberation or wanting to get out of the cycle of birth and death, as per Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita.

What is the primary goal for a spiritual aspirant regarding the Gunas?

The primary goal for a spiritual aspirant is to transcend the Gunas, as being bound to them is the main cause of Samsara or the cycle of birth and death.

How does the knowledge of the three Gunas help in transcending them?

Knowing how the Gunas express themselves in different aspects of life enables one to overcome them, which is necessary for transcending them.

What is the hierarchy of the three Gunas?

Sattva is considered the superior, Rajas is in the middle, and Tamas is the last in the hierarchy.

Why is it said that no human being can be predominantly one Guna?

Every human being has all three Gunas in some proportion, as they are present in everything and are fundamental to creation.

How can one reduce the influence of Tamas in their life?

One can reduce Tamas by reducing activities, thoughts, and consumption (like food) that are prompted by Tamas.

What is the ultimate aim in increasing Sattva according to the script?

Increasing Sattva is essential for a seeker of self-knowledge, as it helps in reducing Tamas and eventually Rajas, leading to a more Sattvic state.