The Gunas

Question 1

Three Gunas

Answer 1

Energetic forces that affect our lives and take us through the cycles of nature. Three essential powers of divinity.

1. Sattva (balance)
2. Rajas (activity)
3. Tamas (inertia)

Question 2

Properties of Tamas

Answer 2

Element: Earth
Characteristics: dense, inertia, substance
Strongest hold: Material nature
Power: Darkness, dullness, form + materiality, dormancy, mind is under-active

Question 3

Properties of Sattva

Answer 3

Element: Air
Characteristics: Calm, clear, harmonious
Strongest hold: Mind, intelligence, will of reason
Power: Balance, light, higher spiritual potential

Question 4

Properties of Rajas

Answer 4

Element: Fire
Characteristics: Action, agitation, turbulence
Strongest hold: Vital nature
Power: Energy, change, and movement

Question 5

The four states of consciousness affected by the gunas

Answer 5

1. The walking state
2. The dream state
3. The sleep state
4. Enlightenment

Question 6

The walking state

Answer 6

The mind, the intellect, the ego, and the feeling self are all active, aspirant is under the influence of all 3 gunas

Question 7

The dream state

Answer 7

Appears as a state of unconsciousness, but is a separate conscious space where projections, misunderstandings, memories, and judgments play out. The mind is unconscious, yet active. Where the unconscious mind meets the astral plane.

Question 8

The sleep state

Answer 8

The mind is completely devoid of thought and in the state of tamas

Question 9

Enlightenment

Answer 9

(Sanskrit: turiya) Aspirant exists within complete harmony and Pure Awareness, where projections cease. Sattvic state.