Andhatamisra is a concept from Hindu philosophy that deals with a deep-seated fear, particularly the fear of death or self-destruction. To understand it better, we need to explore some fundamental ideas from the Sankhya Darshana, one of the major schools of Hindu thought.
Two Types of Creation in Sankhya Philosophy
- Elemental Creation: This involves the physical universe, made up of the basic elements like earth, water, fire, air, and ether.
- Creation of Buddhi (Intellect): This is a more subtle creation, referred to as pratyaya-sarga. It is divided into four categories:
- Viparyaya (Ignorance)
- Asakti (Incapacity)
- Tushti (Contentment)
- Siddhi (Perfection or Powers)
Understanding Andhatamisra
- Andhatamisra falls under the category of viparyaya (ignorance) and represents a profound fear, primarily the fear of death or losing one’s existence.
- Eighteen Varieties: There are eighteen different forms of this fear, each manifesting in various ways.
- Gross and Subtle Objects of Pleasure:
- Gross Objects: These are the tangible pleasures we experience through our senses, like sound through our ears, sight through our eyes, etc.
- Subtle Objects: These are finer pleasures experienced in higher realms or heavens, beyond the physical world.
Siddhis (Powers) and Fear
In Hindu philosophy, siddhis are special powers or perfections, such as:
- Anima: The ability to become very small.
- Mahima: The ability to become very large.
- Laghima: The ability to become very light.
- Garima: The ability to become very heavy.
- Prapti: The ability to reach anywhere.
- Prakamya: The ability to obtain anything desired.
- Ishita: The ability to control.
- Vashita: The ability to subjugate all.
The fear of losing these powers, or the fear that they might not be real, is part of andhatamisra.
Comparison with Yoga Philosophy
- In the Yoga system by Patanjali, a similar concept is known as abhinivesha, which is excessive attachment or clinging to life. It represents the same kind of deep fear and attachment to existence.
Use in Puranas
- The terms tamisra and andhatamisra are also used in Hindu mythological texts called the Puranas to describe specific hells.
- These hells are places of punishment for those who commit serious sins such as:
- Suicide
- Stealing others’ wealth
- Usurping others' women
In summary, andhatamisra is a complex and deeply rooted fear associated with ignorance and the potential loss of one's powers or existence. It is intricately tied to the philosophical and spiritual teachings of Hinduism, reflecting on the nature of fear and attachment within the human psyche.