The idea that beyond the three material modes lies the pure existence of spiritual beings is a concept that aligns with certain philosophical perspectives within Hinduism.
One of the central concepts in Hindu philosophy is the idea
of Atman, which is often translated as the individual soul or self. According
to many Hindu traditions, the ultimate goal of life is to realize the true
nature of the self and its connection to the ultimate reality, often referred
to as Brahman.
The three material modes is the reference to the Gunas in
Hindu philosophy. The Gunas, known as Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas, are qualities
or tendencies that are believed to influence the mind and behavior of
individuals. Sattva is associated with purity and knowledge, Rajas with passion
and activity, and Tamas with inertia and ignorance. The idea is to transcend
these Gunas and realize a state of higher consciousness.
The notion that our true existence is that of spiritual
beings beyond the material modes suggests a transcendent reality beyond the
fluctuations of the material world. This aligns with the idea that the ultimate
truth or reality is beyond the dualities and impermanence of the material
world.
Different philosophical schools within Hinduism, such as Vedanta, Yoga, and Samkhya, provide various perspectives on the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth. Some emphasize knowledge and wisdom (Jnana Yoga), others focus on devotion (Bhakti Yoga), and still others emphasize disciplined action (Karma Yoga) or a combination of these paths.
A Modern Day Way To Understand This Concept
Imagine your life is like a video game, and you are the player holding the controller. Here is how to understand those big ideas using the game as an example:
1. The Three Colors of the Game (The Gunas)
Everything in the material world is made up of three "flavors" or moods called Gunas. Think of them like filters on a screen:
Sattva (The Clear Filter): When you are feeling calm, kind, and smart. It’s like playing a game where everything is peaceful and you’re learning how to level up properly.
Rajas (The Bright/Hyper Filter): When you are super excited, running around, and want to win everything right now! It’s like a fast-paced racing game where you can’t sit still.
Tamas (The Dark/Foggy Filter): When you feel lazy, sleepy, or confused. It’s like wen the game gets glitchy or the screen goes dark and you don't want to play anymore.
2. Who Are You Really? (Atman)
The most important thing to remember is that you are not the character on the screen. The character might get hurt, get tired, or change clothes, but you (the player) are sitting safely on your couch.
In Hinduism, the "player" is called the Atman (your soul). Even when the "game" of life is stressful, the real "you" is pure, spiritual, and perfect.
3. The "Big Boss" Reality (Brahman)
If every single person is a player, Hinduism says that we are all actually part of one giant, amazing energy called Brahman. It’s like all the different video games in the world are actually plugged into one massive, magical power source. Learning that you are part of that power is called "Realization."
4. How to Win the Game (The Yogas)
There isn't just one way to "win" or find the truth. People choose the "controller" that fits them best:
Jnana Yoga: For the kids who love reading the manual and learning all the secrets of how the game works (Wisdom).
Bhakti Yoga: For the kids who play with a lot of love and heart, being a fan of the "Game Creator" (Devotion).
Karma Yoga: For the kids who just love helping other players and doing good things in the game world (Action).
The Big Secret
The goal is to realize that you are beyond the game. You aren't just the character who gets mad or sleepy (the Gunas); you are a beautiful, spiritual being who is just visiting the material world for a little while!