Bhuta
Bhuta, also known as Pancha-Bhuta (5 Elements) or Pancha-Maha-Bhuta (5 Great Elements) is the basis of all cosmic creation.
In Ayurveda and Indian philosophy, the human body is made of these five elements.
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The Five Elements (Pancha-Bhuta) are:
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Akasha (Space)
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Vayu (Wind)
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Agni/Teja (Fire)
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Apas/Jala (Water)
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Prithvi (Earth)
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Maha-Bhuta > Composition Characteristic
Vayu + Akasha > Prana
Agni + Jala/Apas > Tejas
Prithvi + Jala/Apas > Ojas
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Guna
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The Guna are the 3 characteristics of Prakriti (Nature). It is the vibratory state of Prana. The understanding of Guna can be observed in our mental and physical states, as well as the external world around us.
Normal people usually have a combination of all three, though they might gravitate strongly towards one due to certain circumstances in life. As practitioners, we should strive towards Sattva-Guna, and in time, transcend the 3 Guna.
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The Guna are:
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Sattva-Guna: (White) Wholesome, Balanced, Contentment.
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Rajas-Guna: (Red) Kinetic, Active, Agitated, Restless, Action, Dynamic, Passion.
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Tamas-Guna: (Black) Inertia, Passive, Sluggish, Lethargic, Inaction, Stagnant, Laziness.
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From another perspective, the Guna can also be understood as such:
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Sattva-Guna: Equanimous, contentment, wholesome, balanced.
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Rajas-Guna: Passion, Dissatisfaction.
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Tamas-Guna: Impermanence due the cycles of decay/destruction and rebirth in nature.
