The evolution of cosmos
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: The evolution of cosmos
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The concept of cosmos in tantra sastra diverges from the notion of the universe as an illusion or myth. Instead, it posits that the universe originates from an undifferentiated primordial consciousness, referred to as Parabrahman in Vedantism and paramasaiva in tantra. This primordial state underwent a fundamental movement or vibration, termed adi sphota, leading to the emergence of energy (adi sakti). This dynamic consciousness, known as Sabda Brahman, paved the way for the creation of the universe as it transitioned from pure consciousness to solid manifestations.
Evolution of Consciousness: The Process of Creation
A key aspect of this cosmological framework is the transformation from undifferentiated consciousness to material existence, described through a series of stages. Sage Kapila's Samkhya philosophy outlines this evolution in twenty-five stages, which are elaborated into thirty-six principles within tantra, encompassing everything from pure consciousness (paramasiva) to the solid state (prithvi). This transformation involves the differentiation of consciousness into primordial "mind stuff" (mahat tatva), which then evolves into five fundamental elements: akasa (ether), vayu (air), agni (fire), ap (water), and pritvi (earth). Each of these elements corresponds to different states of matter and energy, resonating with modern scientific concepts, particularly in particle physics and wave mechanics. The cyclical nature of evolution is complemented by dissolution (samhara), where the created universe returns to its fundamental particles.
Conclusion
The richness of the tantric cosmological perspective finds parallels with contemporary scientific theories of creation, particularly the concept of an initial explosion of energy followed by the formation of matter. This understanding reinforces the notion of divinity as the Creatrix that manifests into various forms in the universe, a view poetically expressed in the Vedic hymn Purusasukta. The evolution of the universe, as described in the tantric tradition, is not only an account of physical transformation but also a reflection of the profound interconnection between consciousness and matter, underlining the timeless quest for comprehension of the cosmos and our place within it.
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Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: The evolution of cosmos
Year: 1991
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the fundamental concept of the universe in tantra sastra?
Tantra sastra views the universe not as an illusion but as a manifestation of undifferentiated primordial consciousness (Parabrahman) that vibrates and evolves into various forms of existence.
How does creation occur according to tantric philosophy?
Creation evolves from a primary explosion (adi sphota) of energy, which then solidifies into 'mind stuff' and transforms into fundamental particles, ultimately resulting in the diverse universe we experience.
What are the stages of evolution in tantra philosophy?
Sage Kapila outlines twenty-five stages of evolution in Samkhya, while tantra elaborates this into thirty-six principles, detailing the transformation from pure consciousness to the grossest material state.
How does modern physics relate to the tantric view of creation?
The tantric view resembles modern physics, as both suggest that an initial explosion of energy expanded and transformed into particles, leading to the solid universe, similar to current scientific theories of the universe's formation.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The evolution of cosmos”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Evolution:
Evolution refers to the process of development and change within the cosmos, where primordial consciousness transforms into diverse forms and matter. It involves the gradation from pure consciousness to the gross physical world, embodying a creative movement reflective of the universe's continual unfolding. This idea resonates with both ancient philosophies and contemporary scientific theories.
2) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformed signifies the process through which the undifferentiated primordial consciousness evolves into the manifold forms of the universe. This term encapsulates the idea that the essence of divinity takes on various shapes and expressions, leading to the diverse existence we encounter, reflecting a dynamic interplay of consciousness and matter.
3) Brahman:
Brahman refers to the ultimate, undifferentiated reality in Vedanta philosophy, representing consciousness that underlies all existence. Within the context of tantra, it emphasizes the vibrating aspect, Sabda Brahman, illustrating the energetic nature of this supreme principle that manifests itself in the universe through various levels of consciousness and matter.
4) Tantra (Tantrā, Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantric pertains to the specific teachings and practices associated with tantra, embracing the concepts of energy, consciousness, and universal principles. It highlights transformative methods that facilitate spiritual realization, viewing the cosmos as a dynamic expression of divine consciousness and promoting a deeper understanding of existence and creation.
5) Shastra (Śāstra):
Sastra refers to a body of authoritative texts or scriptures in Indian philosophy that convey essential knowledge and teachings. In this context, it encompasses the principles and doctrines rooted in tantra that elucidate the cosmic processes, providing a framework for understanding the evolution of the universe and human consciousness.
6) Purusha (Puruṣa, Pūruṣa):
Purusa is a term used in Indian philosophy to represent the cosmic being or pure consciousness. It symbolizes the essence of individuality and the connection to the universal consciousness, serving as a pivotal concept in the evolution of existence, bridging the gap between the spiritual and material realms in creation.
7) Mahat:
Mahat denotes the 'great' principle in cosmological theories, often referred to as 'mind stuff.' It represents the first manifestation of consciousness that differentiates into various forms and levels. In the context of evolution, it signifies the transition from unmanifest potentiality to manifest reality, bridging divine consciousness and material existence.
8) Shabda (Śabda):
Sabda means 'sound' or 'word' in Sanskrit and refers to the vibrational aspect of divine consciousness. In tantric philosophy, it represents the primordial energy and creativity inherent in the universe, embodying the concept of Sabda Brahman, which highlights the dynamic interplay between sound, consciousness, and the material world.
9) Water:
Water, in the context of the five fundamental elements, symbolizes a state of matter that is more fluid and less condensed. It represents a transitional phase in the cosmic evolution from gross to subtle forms, reflecting the principles of transformation and illustrating the interconnectedness of various manifestations within the universe.
10) Shiva (Śivā, Sivā, Śiva, Siva, Sīva):
Siva is a central figure in Hindu philosophy, epitomizing the cosmic principle of creation and dissolution. In tantra, Siva represents the essence of consciousness from which the universe emerges. The interplay between Siva and Sakti embodies the dynamic relationship of pure consciousness and creative energy, crucial to understanding existence.
11) Sahasraksha (Sahasrākṣa, Sahasra-aksha):
Sahasraksa, which translates to 'thousand-eyed,' symbolizes the omniscient and all-seeing aspect of the divine. This concept reflects the interconnectedness of all existence and consciousness, emphasizing the idea that the cosmos embodies multiple perspectives and experiences, which resonate with the holistic view encompassed in the Vedic hymns.
12) Science (Scientific):
Science encompasses methodology for systematically understanding the natural world through empirical investigation. The alignment of ancient philosophical perspectives, like tantra, with modern scientific principles demonstrates the universality of knowledge, enriching our comprehension of existence, consciousness evolution, and the transformative process of creation.
13) Substance:
Substance, in the philosophical discussion, refers to the fundamental nature of reality that can manifest in various forms. It embodies both the material and energetic aspects of existence, depicting how the primordial consciousness evolves into tangible elements of the universe, thus linking physical reality with the underlying principles of creation.
14) Ahamkara (Ahaṅkāra, Ahaṃkāra, Ahankara, Aham-kara):
Ahamkara translates to 'ego' or 'I-maker' and represents the aspect of consciousness that identifies individual existence. It is a critical stage in the evolution of consciousness, marking the transition from collective awareness to individual perception, thus playing a pivotal role in the interplay of self and the universe.
15) Prithvi (Pṛthvī):
Prithvi refers to the physical element of earth within the five fundamental components of matter. It signifies the final stage of manifestation in the evolution process, representing solidity and grounding, and underscores the connection between the material world and the broader principles of existence articulated in tantric philosophy.
16) Samkhya (Sāṅkhya, Saṃkhyā, Sāṃkhya, Saṅkhyā, Sankhya, Shankhya, Saṃkhya):
Samkhya is a classical Indian philosophy that outlines the enumeration of principles constituting reality. It provides a framework for understanding the evolution of consciousness and matter through the twenty-five principles, influencing various aspects of Indian thought, including tantra, by illustrating the dynamics of creation, preservation, and dissolution.
17) Avyakta (Āvyakta):
Avyakta translates to 'unmanifest' and signifies the initial state of consciousness before any differentiation occurs. It embodies the potentiality inherent in the primordial consciousness, illustrating the transformative journey of creation where the unmanifest evolves into various stages of existence, culminating in the physical universe perceived by sentient beings.
18) Prithivi (Pṛthivī, Prithivī, Prthivī, Prthivi):
Prthivi is an alternative spelling for Prithvi, highlighting the essence of earth as one of the fundamental elements in the evolutionary process. It plays a crucial role in illustrating the material manifestations within the universe and their relationship to the divine and energetic principles that underpin all existence.
19) Kapila (Kapilā, Kāpila):
Kapila was a sage and philosopher in ancient Indian thought, credited with founding the Samkhya school of philosophy. His teachings on the principles of evolution and consciousness have influenced various other philosophical systems, including tantra, by providing an analytical framework to comprehend the relationship between consciousness, matter, and existence.
20) Sphota (Sphoṭa, Sphoṭā):
Sphota refers to the concept of a primary explosion or the initial vibrational energy from which creation emerges. In tantric philosophy, it symbolizes the dynamic aspect of consciousness that initiates the process of manifestation, emphasizing the interplay between energy and form in the unfolding of the universe.
21) Desire:
Desire, as expressed in the Vedic hymn, signifies the impulse or inner motivation of consciousness to diversify into forms. This concept encapsulates the foundational principle of creation in tantra, where the yearning of the undifferentiated consciousness leads to the evolution of the manifold aspects of existence and the universe itself.
22) Manas (Mano, Manash, Māṇo):
Manas refers to mind or thought in Sanskrit, representing the aspect of consciousness that facilitates perception and cognition within the universe. It plays a pivotal role in the evolutionary process, bridging the intangible realm of awareness with the material manifestations of the cosmos through thought, intention, and perception.
23) Vyoman (Vyoma):
Vyoma translates to 'ether' or 'space' and represents an essential aspect of the five elements within the cosmic evolution framework. It embodies the interconnectedness and expanse within which all creations exist, emphasizing the ethereal nature of reality and the subtle energies interacting to create the universe.
24) Bhumi (Bhūmi, Bhūmī):
Bhumi refers to 'earth' as a transformative element within the cosmological structure, symbolizing physicality and stability in the evolved universe. It signifies the manifestation of substance and groundedness, highlighting the balance between material existence and the underlying spiritual principles guiding the evolution of consciousness.
25) Akasha (Ākāśa, Ākāsa, Ākāsa, Ākaṣa, Akāśa, Akāsa):
Akasa, often translated as 'ether' or 'space,' represents the subtle, foundational element within which all matter exists. It embodies the expansive nature of consciousness and serves as a medium through which energy interacts, illustrating the fundamental principles of vibration and manifestation in the process of cosmic evolution.
26) Vishva (Viśva, Viśvā, Viṣva, Vishvasa):
Visva denotes the entirety of existence or the universe as a whole. It encapsulates the concept of the interconnectedness of all forms and consciousness, emphasizing the wholeness of creation as an unfolding process. This term reinforces the unity underlying the myriad expressions of reality within the cosmic framework.
27) Shirsha (Śīrṣa, Śirṣā):
Sirsa translates to 'head' and signifies a central aspect or the source of consciousness in the cosmic being. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of various manifestations and the overarching consciousness that permeates the universe, linking the microcosm of individual experience to the macrocosm of universal existence.
28) Veda (Vedā):
Veda means 'knowledge' and constitutes the sacred texts of ancient India that encompass a diverse range of philosophical, spiritual, and scientific knowledge. They provide insights into the nature of existence, consciousness, and cosmic processes, serving as a guiding framework for understanding the evolution and interconnectedness of all forms in reality.
29) Agni:
Agni embodies the element of fire, representing transformation, energy, and purification within the cosmic framework. It signifies the dynamic aspect of consciousness, illustrating how fire catalyzes change and evolution, thus playing a vital role in the processes of creation and dissolution within the broader context of existence.
30) Vayu (Vāyu):
Vayu represents the element of air, symbolizing movement, breath, and vitality within the cosmic structure. It embodies the life-giving forces of nature, bridging the gap between the physical and spiritual realms, and emphasizing the inherent interconnectedness of all elements in the evolutionary process of existence.
31) Mana (Māṇa, Māna, Maṉa, Maṉā, Māṉa, Māṉā):
Mana refers to the concept of mind and mental processes in the context of Indian philosophy. It emphasizes the role of thought in shaping perception and experience, serving as a bridge between consciousness and the material universe, thereby highlighting the importance of mental faculties in understanding reality.
32) Sage:
Sage denotes a wise and revered figure in spiritual traditions, often embodying profound insights into existence and consciousness. In the context of tantra and Vedic philosophy, sages like Kapila provide essential teachings that elucidate the processes of evolution and creation, guiding seekers towards greater understanding of the universe.