In Hindu philosophy, Lingasharira, also known as Sukshma Sharira, refers to the subtle body or the astral body that exists alongside the gross physical body (sthula-sharira) and the causal body (karana sharira). The concept of Linga Sharira is integral to understanding the nature of the soul (jivatman) and its journey through the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara).
The Lingasharira is composed of sixteen parts, each playing
a specific role in the functioning and experiences of the individual. These
sixteen parts are further categorized into three groups:
Five Jnanendriyas (Organs of Knowledge):
- Eyes (sight)
- Ears (hearing)
- Nose (smell)
- Tongue (taste)
- Skin (touch)
These organs are responsible for receiving sensory
information from the external world, allowing the individual to perceive and
comprehend the surrounding environment.
Five Karmendriyas (Organs of Action):
- Hands (grasping)
- Feet (walking)
- Mouth (speaking)
- Genitals (reproduction)
- Anus (elimination)
The karmendriyas are associated with physical actions and
activities performed by an individual in the external world.
Five Pranas (Vital Airs):
- Prana (inhalation)
- Apana (exhalation)
- Samana (assimilation)
- Udana (upward breath)
- Vyana (circulation)
These vital airs are responsible for various physiological
functions and the circulation of energy within the body.
Mind (including Buddhi or Intellect):
- Manas (mind)
- Buddhi (intellect)
- Chitta (memory)
- Ahankara (ego)
The mind and its associated faculties play a crucial role in
thoughts, emotions, reasoning, and self-awareness.
The Lingasharira is considered the vehicle for the soul's
journey and experiences in the subtle realms. It is through the Lingasharira
that the soul undergoes the process of punarjanma, or transmigration, moving
from one physical body to another in successive lifetimes. Understanding and
purifying the subtle body are important aspects of spiritual practice in
Hinduism, as it is believed that liberation (moksha) can only be attained when
the soul transcends the cycle of birth and rebirth.
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