In the Sankhya system of Indian philosophy, pradhana or prakriti (nature, matrix of all created objects) is posited as one of the two fundamental realities, the other reality being purusha (soul). Alinga is one of the synonyms of this prakriti.
Etymologically, the word ‘linga’ signifies a characteristic mark or an object that dissolves back into its cause. ‘Alinga’ therefore is that which is the opposite of ‘linga’. Prakriti or primordial nature, with its three constituent gunas (qualities) - sattva (balance), rajas (activity), and tamas (inertia) - in a state of perfect equilibrium, is so subtle that there is absolutely no manifest sign by which it can be perceived. It can only be inferred. Hence it is called ‘avyakta’ (the unmanifest) and ‘alinga’ (without characteristic signs).
Nature and Characteristics of Prakriti:
- Three Gunas: The three gunas are always present in prakriti and remain in perfect balance before creation. This balance ensures that prakriti itself remains unmanifest and without form.
- Eternal and Indestructible: Being the original cause and the substratum of dissolution of all its products, prakriti does not undergo dissolution itself. Even in this sense, it is ‘alinga’.
- Cause of the Universe: Prakriti is considered the material cause of the universe. When the equilibrium of the gunas is disturbed, the process of creation begins, leading to the manifestation of the universe.
- Unmanifest State: In its unmanifest state, prakriti is beyond sensory perception and can only be understood through intellectual inference and spiritual insight.
Alinga in Sacred Texts:
The concept of alinga is also found in several Upanishads, where it is used to denote the Atman (soul) or Brahman (ultimate reality). Since the Atman or Brahman transcends all characteristic signs (lingas) by which it can be perceived by the senses or even the mind, it is referred to as ‘alinga’.
- Katha Upanishad (6.8): This text discusses the nature of the Atman, emphasizing its indestructible and unmanifest nature, akin to the description of prakriti as alinga.
- Maitrayani Upanishad (6.31, 35; 7.2): The Maitrayani Upanishad explores the idea of Brahman as being beyond all characteristics and signs, further supporting the notion of alinga.
In these contexts, the term ‘alinga’ underscores the transcendental nature of the ultimate reality, which cannot be grasped by ordinary means of perception or cognition.
Conclusion:
The concept of alinga in Hindu philosophy underscores the profound and subtle nature of prakriti and its equivalence in the realm of spiritual reality with the Atman or Brahman. It highlights the intrinsic unmanifest and indefinable aspects of the foundational elements of the universe and ultimate reality, emphasizing their transcendental and eternal qualities.