Significance of Prakriti
Prakriti, in various philosophical frameworks, signifies the inherent nature or essence of substances or entities. In Jainism, it denotes the qualities of nature; in Tibetan Buddhism, it represents causality central to existence. In Vaishnavism and Purana texts, Prakriti symbolizes material nature and the equilibrium of creation, while in Ayurveda, it refers to an individual's constitution that influences health. Across these traditions, Prakriti embodies both the material world and the primal essence from which existence arises, highlighting its fundamental role in various philosophical contexts.
Synonyms: Nature, Environment, Essence, Character, Disposition, Natural world
In Finnish: Prakriti
In Dutch: Praktijk
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Prakriti'
In Buddhism, Prakriti signifies 'cause,' highlighting its essential role in understanding existence and activity, emphasizing the interconnectedness of events and the foundational nature of causality in Buddhist philosophy.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The term used to denote 'cause,' emphasizing that this concept of causality is central to the discussion on existence and activity.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Prakriti'
Prakriti in Hinduism encompasses material nature and the creative principle of the universe, serving as the basis for existence and interaction with the supreme spirit, while embodying both the illusion of reality and the source of physical forms.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The creative energy or nature, often described as the mother of all beings.[2] (2) Refers to the feminine aspect in the spiritual practice, contrasted with the male divine and perceived by sages.[3] (3) The primordial matter or nature that is the source of all creation alongside Purusha (the spirit).[4] (4) The natural form or essence, which may be associated with the lotus-eyed lady and her identity.[5] (5) Referring to the natural world or creative aspect that Ganga embodies, marking her as a key element of the universe.[6]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The natural feminine energy and the essence from which the Devis are a part; mentioned dichotomously in relation to the Devi Shashthi.[7] (2) Refers to the material nature or cosmic force that is associated with the goddess and is considered inert, contrasting with the consciousness of the Purusha, represented by Vishnu.[8] (3) The divine nature or material principle that manifests in creation; often contrasted with Purusha, the spiritual principle.[9] (4) The natural world or nature, which can be pure (Suddha Sattva) or impure (Avidya), interacting with Maya.[10] (5) Nature or the creative force that initiates the process of creation involving the three Gunas.[11]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The primal matter or nature that is unintelligent and is associated with creation and modification.[12] (2) The unmanifested essence of nature from which consciousness and various attributes arise, forming the foundation of existence.[13] (3) The unmanifest aspect of nature, which is the source of all material forms and the dynamic energy of existence.[14] (4) The unmanifested reality considered the source of all creation, serving as the field of experience and transformations.[15] (5) The manifest, the primal nature that gives rise to structure and form, often associated with the attributes of birth and death.[16]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The primal cosmic nature or material reality that is the source of all physical existence and experience.[17] (2) The material nature or body that is subject to destiny; it controls one's actions and sense-organs.[18] (3) The primal matter or nature which, along with Avidya (ignorance), contributes to the material universe and individual experiences as described in the Bhagavata Purana.[19] (4) The material nature or cosmic fabric that encompasses the material world and affects the body and mind.[20] (5) Prakriti refers to the primal nature or material world, from which the body is produced, embodying the qualities (gunas) that influence existence.[21]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The primal nature or material cause of the universe, which manifests as the physical world including forms and actions.[22] (2) The fundamental nature of matter and the source of all material existence.[23] (3) The fundamental substance or Matter in Samkhya philosophy, characterized as being imperceptible and the root cause of all phenomena.[24] (4) The fundamental nature of material reality that encompasses the three gunas and is seen as dependent upon the qualityless Brahman.[25] (5) Refers to Material Nature as an independent entity in Samkhya philosophy, responsible for the manifestation of the physical universe and its qualities.[26]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The unmanifest nature or primal material from which all creations arise, symbolizing the diversity of existence.[27] (2) The material nature or the principle of creation that manifests through transformations.[28] (3) The primordial nature or feminine principle from which creation arises, exemplified by Shatarupa.[29] (4) The material nature or the feminine energy of creation, discussed in the context of the origin of various creatures.[30]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The primordial nature or material cause from which creation arises, associated with feminine energy and mentioned in relation to Shiva.[31] (2) The material nature that is subordinate to Shiva, encompassing all forms of existence and reality.[32] (3) The nature or primordial substance referred to in the context of creation and existence.[33]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The fundamental nature or material aspect, depicted as the manifest world, often associated with the form of Shiva.[34] (2) Nature or the material reality that is acted upon by the divine and gives rise to the manifest universe.[35] (3) The insentient nature or the material cause of the universe, as described in the Lingapurana.[36]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The primal nature or ultimate reality from which all creation stems, as delineated in the text.[37] (2) Nature that is characterized by both manifest and unmanifest forms, representing the equilibrium of all attributes.[38] (3) The fundamental nature or principle of nature responsible for the physical manifestation and the qualities that govern existence.[39]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The equilibrium of three gunas, also known as avyakta and Pradhana, described as the source of creation.[40] (2) The primordial matter regarded as the uncaused cause of world creation, characterized as material, indeterminate, and eternal.[41] (3) The primordial nature or material reality that creates and destroys beings, seen as a key aspect of cosmic balance.[42]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) In contrast to Purusha, Prakriti denotes the non-intelligent and material aspect of existence.[43] (2) The supreme nature manifesting as the three gunas, and associated with goddess Durga.[44]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Matter or nature that transforms into the universe, signifying the evolving aspects of existence.[45] (2) Nature or the material world which acts as the medium of creation and existence.[46]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The nature or material aspect of the universe, which comprises both manifest and unmanifest forms.[47]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The primordial matter or nature that serves as the source of the universe; it is described as both the cause of creation and a form of illusion.[48]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The original nature or primal substance from which the first three creations are derived.[49]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The principle of Nature that represents the state of equilibrium among the three Gunas: Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas.[50]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Nature, which encompasses both discrete and indiscrete elements, serving as the basis for all existence and interacting with the supreme spirit.[51]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The subtle state of non-intelligent matter, often associated with the illusory aspect of reality in contrast to the intelligent principle.[52] (2) Nature or the material world in Hindu philosophy, often referenced in relation to the supreme Person's power.[53] (3) The material aspect or nature of reality, often viewed as the source of creation, which is governed by Brahman.[54] (4) The material nature or principle that, alongside the intelligent soul, plays a role in the causation of the world but is distinct from Brahman.[55] (5) The fundamental matter or nature that acts as the agent in the universe, distinct from the Self, which raises questions regarding responsibility and action.[56]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The Undifferentiated state of existence that is subject to changes and variations.[57] (2) The non-sentient aspect of reality that is independent of Purusha and responsible for all activity.[58] (3) Prakriti refers to the fundamental nature or the original state of the material world that encompasses the Gunas.[59] (4) This term refers to the material nature or the fundamental substance of existence that undergoes modifications.[60]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Another term for maya, representing the material aspect of creation as characterized by three gunas.[61] (2) The material world or nature, which contributes to the illusion of maya.[62] (3) In the context of svaminarayana Vedanta, it represents the empirical world and the material principle that is dependent on Parabrahman.[63]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The natural cause or fundamental essence that gives rise to the modifications of the sheaths, emphasizing the relationship between effect and cause in the context of the self.[64] (2) The natural world or material reality in contrast to the spiritual self, according to Sankhya philosophy.[65]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Prakriti is discussed in the context of time, space, and the Vedas, delineating the nature of the material world in contrast to Brahman.[66] (2) Refers to the natural world or matter; in this context, it’s related to the creation and animation caused by the Lord.[67]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The Shakti of Brahman, which has the ability to produce various worlds by virtue of Brahman's mere presence.[68] (2) Nature or creative force, often contrasted with pure consciousness.[69]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The natural world or matter, which is indwelt by the Lord, and incapable of motion by itself.[70]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The material or manifest aspect of reality, represented here as the Variegated Self.[71]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The physical and manifest aspect of existence, contrasting with the unconditioned nature of the atman.[72]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Nature or the physical universe, including all material aspects, often contrasted with the spiritual reality of Brahman.[73]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The nature or material reality that interacts with purusha, forming the basis for the experience of life and consciousness.[74] (2) The root product in Sankhya philosophy considered purely productive and the basis of the material universe.[75] (3) The fundamental nature or constitution of an individual, made of trigunas.[76] (4) The primordial nature that procreates or evolves other elements in existence.[77]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The nature or primal matter in which sound and the power of signification emerge and dissipate.[78] (2) The material nature or fundamental substance that undergoes modifications which can be mastered.[79] (3) The various states of the manifestation of nature, including elements and forces of sensation, which the Prakritilayas are absorbed in post-body.[80] (4) Matter or nature in its primordial form, viewed in dualistic philosophy as distinct from the conscious self.[81]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) The material nature in which Ishwara is seen, but which is ruled by Him.[82] (2) The elemental, undifferentiated substance of mind and matter that is the source of the cosmos, considered an effect of Brahman.[83]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Nature, which is described as being free from the power of enjoying and intelligence but can mistakenly adopt the identity of the enjoyer.[84] (2) The First Principle, known as alinga, which does not specifically indicate anything and is considered the subtlest category.[85]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) The fundamental nature or essential state from which the universe and phenomena are said to emerge.[86]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Nature; often referred to in the context of the Lord's potencies, representing the material manifestation.[87] (2) Material nature, the layer of reality where all modes are in equilibrium, reached by yogis.[88] (3) Translates to nature or intrinsic nature; considered the natural potency of Bhagavan, linked to the true nature of the Lord.[89]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Matter or nature, as opposed to the spiritual essence of the soul, that distracts individuals from self-realization.[90] (2) The inherent nature of material existence that obscures the true divine nature of the Lord.[91]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Prakriti refers to the natural or inherent state of being.[92]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Matter or nature, often discussed as a principle that interacts with consciousness in various philosophical systems.[93] (2) The nature or material aspect of the manifest world in contrast to pure consciousness.[94] (3) The concept of primeval matter or nature in Hindu philosophy, closely related to the ideas of femininity and the divine Mother.[95] (4) The nature or feminine principle that manifests as the material world and the embodiment of divine energy, often contrasted with Purusha (the spirit).[96]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The term used to refer to nature or the material world, specifically in the context of self-evolution in Sankhya philosophy.[97] (2) Components or factors of the state, which include the Minister, Kingdom, Fort, Treasury, Army, and Allies, critical to the stability and governance of the realm.[98]
From: Apastamba Yajna-paribhasa-sutras
(1) The established or standard guidelines and rules for conducting sacrifices, from which modifications or additional instructions may arise.[99] (2) A term indicating a standard or norm for rituals, from which variations may derive.[100]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Refers to the original material or nature, representing the foundational essence or being that influences transformation.[101] (2) The fundamental nature or principle that represents the material aspect of reality, influenced by the three gunas.[102] (3) Refers to the original or pure form of a concept or word, in this case, linked to the meaning of number derived from vimshati.[103]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The root product considered as the primordial cause in Sankhya philosophy, described as purely productive.[104]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) The female principle of energy, which is given less importance in the Pasupata system compared to other philosophies.[105]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The material nature or the cause of creation, which interacts with purusha in the framework of Kashmir Shaivism.[106]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The primordial originant or the source of all material existence, from which the world and its elements are generated.[107]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The primal matter or nature from which all elements and beings are derived.[108] (2) The Ayurvedic term for an individual's inherent constitution that influences their health and personality.[109]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 3: Sharirasthana
(1) The original nature or the eight categories that form the basic elements contributing to the human body.[110]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Refers to nature or the physical world, often contrasted with spiritual or transcendent aspects of reality.[111] (2) The base (verbal or nominal) of a word.[112]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) The elements that constitute the state, comprising the king, minister, country, fortified city, treasury, army, and ally.[113]
Jain concept of 'Prakriti'
In Jainism, Prakriti signifies nature, encapsulating the intrinsic qualities and characteristics that define a substance or entity, highlighting its essential attributes and natural properties within the philosophical framework of the religion.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Nature, referring to the inherent qualities or characteristics of a substance or entity.[114]
The concept of Prakriti in local and regional sources
Prakriti represents nature and the feminine principle within Shaktism, embodying the dynamic force of existence and the nurturing aspects of the universe, contrasting societal portrayals of women and emphasizing naturalness and the creative principle.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Denotes naturalness and unmodified speech, serving as the root for the term 'Prakrita' representing the uncontaminated language of the masses.[115] (2) In Hindu philosophy, the concept representing nature or the feminine aspect of the universe, often associated with creation and nurturing.[116] (3) The nature or the creative principle of the universe that includes physical and spiritual dimensions.[117] (4) The feminine energy that represents nature and the universal mother, contrasting with a hedonistic portrayal of women in society.[118] (5) The material nature or the cosmic substance, often discussed in philosophical texts regarding creation.[119]
From: Diaspora of Bhuta (Daiva) worshipping cult—India and Indonesia
(1) Nature or the feminine principle within Shaktism that encompasses all material and spiritual creation, illustrating the dynamic force behind existence.[120]
The concept of Prakriti in scientific sources
Prakriti signifies an individual's unique constitution shaped by the dominant dosha(s) at fertilization, which plays a crucial role in determining their personality traits and overall health throughout life.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The nature or constitution of an individual in Ayurveda that influences dietary choices.[121] (2) A foundational Ayurvedic concept that refers to the inherent constitution or nature of a person.[122] (3) The individual constitution in Ayurveda that determines a person's physical and mental characteristics, influencing their susceptibility to various diseases.[123] (4) The innate constitution or personality type of an individual, determined by the balance of doshas present at conception.[124] (5) An Ayurvedic concept referring to an individual's unique constitution and how it informs their health and treatment.[125]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) The unique constitution of an individual in Ayurveda, determined by the predominant doshas, which influences their health and treatment.[126] (2) The unique constitution or body type of an individual as defined in Ayurveda, which influences treatment approaches.[127] (3) The unique constitution of an individual in Ayurveda, which is determined by the dominance of specific elements and doshas, influencing health and susceptibility to diseases.[128] (4) The natural qualitative characteristics of food that influence dietary choices based on an individual's constitution.[129] (5) The individual constitution assessed by Ayurveda, which helps in understanding a patient's conditions including arishta.[130]
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) The physical-psychological constitution of an individual as per Ayurveda, determined by a unique combination of three Doshas, which influences health and dietary needs.[131] (2) The constitution or inherent nature of an individual in Ayurveda, determining their physical, mental, and emotional characteristics.[132] (3) The constitution of an individual in Ayurveda, determining physiological and biological characteristics, relevant in the context of clinical trials.[133] (4) The individual constitution or natural characteristics determined by Ayurveda.[134] (5) An Ayurveda term for individual constitution or body type that influences susceptibility to conditions like asthma. Various Prakriti types were observed in the study.[135]
From: Ayushdhara journal
(1) A person’s unique constitution or biological make-up according to Ayurvedic principles, influencing individual health and disease susceptibility.[136] (2) The individual constitution or inherent qualities of a person, which can predispose them to Amlapitta.[137] (3) The natural state or constitution of the body, representing balanced health in Ayurveda.[138] (4) The individual's constitution or inherent nature in Ayurveda, affecting their health and susceptibility to diseases.[139] (5) An individual's unique constitution or inherent qualities as defined in Ayurveda, influencing their experience of menopause.[140]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
(1) A person's genetic constitution or body type according to Ayurveda, which influences health and susceptibility to diseases.[141] (2) The psychosomatic constitution of an individual in Ayurveda, which influences health, dietary choices, and treatment methods.[142] (3) The constitutional type of an individual according to Ayurveda, which is determined by the predominance of the tridoshas and influences physical and psychological attributes as well as disease susceptibility.[143] (4) The inherent constitution of an individual, influencing health and treatment in Ayurveda.[144]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) An individual's body constitution that should be considered when giving health advice.[145] (2) The body constitution of an individual that influences their health and nutritional needs.[146] (3) An individual's unique constitution formed by the dominant dosha(s) at the time of fertilization, influencing personality and health.[147]
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) Individual constitution in Ayurveda, which is the unique combination of dosic types that defines a person's physical and mental characteristics.[148] (2) The inherent constitution of an individual, as understood in Ayurvedic medicine.[149]