Prakriti

Prakriti is a fundamental philosophical concept in Indian traditions denoting primordial material nature or the energy that constitutes the basis of all physical, mental, and sensory manifestation in the universe. Derived from the Sanskrit pra (before) and kṛti (creation), it refers to unmanifest matter in its dormant state prior to creation. According to the Sankhya system and Vaishnava theology, Prakriti possesses three constituent qualities (the gunas): sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). While these three qualities remain in equilibrium, Prakriti stays dormant. When Bhagavan casts His glance upon it through Lord Vishnu, the equilibrium is disrupted and the process of material creation begins (mahat-tattva, ahankara, etc.). In the Bhagavad-gita, Krishna explains that Prakriti is His inferior energy (apara-prakriti), distinct from the spiritual souls (para-prakriti). Ignorance arises when souls (jivas) identify themselves with the products of Prakriti (the body and mind), forgetting their spiritual identity. Correct understanding of Prakriti is essential in bhakti-yoga, enabling the practitioner to discern between matter and spirit, thus freeing themselves from the illusory influence of maya.