Aprakrita-sharira, Aprākṛta-śarira, Aprakrta-sarira: 1 definition

Introduction:

Aprakrita-sharira means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Hinduism

General definition (in Hinduism)

[«previous next»] — Aprakrita-sharira in Hinduism glossary

Aprākṛta-śarira literally means ‘non-material body’. According to most of the theistic systems of philosophy, prakṛti or insentient nature (sometimes called aparā- prakṛti also) is one of the fundamental constituents of the universe.

It comprises the three guṇas as follows :

  1. Sattva
  2. Rajas
  3. Tamas

Not only the inanimate creation but also the bodies of living beings, are made out of this prakṛti. Hence, these bodies are called prākṛta-śarīras or ‘material bodies’. However, as opposed to this, the bodies of God in his aspects of vyuha (emanations), vibhava (incarnations) and area (manifestation in worship), are aprākṛta-śarīras non-material bodies.

The bodies of the nityas (eternal beings) and the muktas (liberated souls) are also made of the same stuff. This non-material substance is also known as śuddhasattva and is the stuff of the ‘mtyavibhuti,’ the non-material infinite domain beyond prakṛti and its three guṇas.

Source: Hindupedia: The Hindu Encyclopedia

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