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|title=Tanmatra

|title=Tanmatra

|titlemode=append

|titlemode=append

|keywords=Tanmatra, Tanmatra in ayurveda, Tanmatra meaning, Charak samhita, carakasamhitaonline, NawkarMadhumati S., Basisht G., Deole Y.S., Tanmatra Definition, Types of tanmatras, Sukshmabhoota, avishesha, paramanu, Concept of Tanmatra, Vaisheshika theory, Tanmatra and quantum spins, Tanmatra and elementary particles, tanmatra in clinical practices,   

|keywords=Tanmatra, Tanmatra in ayurveda, Tanmatra meaning, Charak samhita, carakasamhitaonline, Nawkar Madhumati S., Basisht G., Deole Y.S., Tanmatra Definition, Types of tanmatras, Sukshmabhoota, avishesha, paramanu, Concept of Tanmatra, Vaisheshika theory, Tanmatra and quantum spins, Tanmatra and elementary particles, tanmatra in clinical practices, padartha vijnana, subtle elements  

|description=The Sanskrit word ‘tanmatra’ literally means subtle elements. It reflects the knowledge of atoms in ancient classics

|description=The Sanskrit word ‘tanmatra’ literally means subtle elements. It reflects the knowledge of atoms in ancient classics

|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg

|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg

|type=article

|type=article

}}

}}

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

<p style="text-align:justify;">The Sanskrit word ‘tanmatra’ literally means subtle elements. It reflects the knowledge of atoms in ancient classics. [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]] being the [[Ayu|life]] science has focused on the genesis of [[Ayu|life]] along with the fulfillment of long healthy [[Ayu|life]]. This concept of genesis of [[Ayu|life]] in [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]] find its roots in [[Sharira Sankhya Sharira|Sankhya]] philosophy and Vedant Philosophy. This concept of tanmatras is reflected as the influence of [[Sharira Sankhya Sharira|Sankhya]] and Vedant philosophy on [[Ayurveda|Ayurved]].

The Sanskrit word ‘tanmatra’ literally means subtle elements. It reflects the knowledge of atoms in ancient classics. [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]] being the [[Ayu|life]] science has focused on the genesis of [[Ayu|life]] along with the fulfillment of long healthy [[Ayu|life]]. This concept of genesis of [[Ayu|life]] in [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]] find its roots in [[Sharira Sankhya Sharira|Sankhya]] philosophy and Vedant Philosophy. This concept of tanmatras is reflected as the influence of [[Sharira Sankhya Sharira|Sankhya]] and Vedant philosophy on [[Ayurveda|Ayurved]].

</p>

</div>

{{Infobox

{{Infobox

|data1 = Concepts/[[Tanmatra]]   

|data1 = Concepts/[[Tanmatra]]   

|label2 = Authors

|label2 = Authors

|data2 = NawkarMadhumati S.¹

|data2 = Nawkar Madhumati S.¹

|label3 = Reviewer

|label3 = Reviewer

|data3 = Basisht G.²,  

|data3 = Basisht G.²,  

|data4 = Deole Y.S.³

|data4 = Deole Y.S.³

|label5 = Affiliations

|label5 = Affiliations

|data5 = ¹DepartmentofSanskritSamhitaSiddhanta, R. T. AyurvedMahavidyalaya, Akola, Maharashtra, India<br/>² Rheumatologist, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.<br/>³Department ofKayachikitsa, G.J.Patel Institute of Ayurvedic Studies and Research, New Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat, India

|data5 = ¹Department of Sanskrit Samhita Siddhanta, R. T. Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Akola, Maharashtra, India<br/>² Rheumatologist, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.<br/>³Department of Kayachikitsa, G.J.Patel Institute of Ayurvedic Studies and Research, New Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat, India

|label6 = Correspondence emails

|label6 = Correspondence emails

|data6 =madhumati.nawkar@gmail.com, <br/>carakasamhita@gmail.com

|data6 =madhumati.nawkar@gmail.com, <br/>carakasamhita@gmail.com

|data7 = [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Development Centre]], I.T.R.A., Jamnagar, India

|data7 = [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Development Centre]], I.T.R.A., Jamnagar, India

|label8 = Date of publication:

|label8 = Date of publication:

|data8 =November 24, 2022

|data8 =November 28, 2022

|label9 = DOI

|label9 = DOI

|data9 = In process

|data9 = {{DoiWithLink}}

}}

}}

=== Definition ===

=== Definition ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

Tanmatras are trifled, rudimentary or subtle elements from which the grosser elements ([[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhoota]]) are produced.<ref>Sir Monnier Williams, Sanskrit English Dictionary, Southern Publication, Madras, 1987, P. 434.</ref> The shabdadi (subject of senses/ quality of [[Pancha mahabhuta|Mahabhootas]]) which are anudbhuta (In evolutionary stage) and can not be sensed by external sense organs are ‘tanmatras’. Only a person with highly developed senses like yogi can experience it.<ref>Dalhan, NibandhSangraha commentary on SushrutSamhita,SharirSthana Chapter1,Verse 4,Chaukhamba Orientallia, Varanasi 1997,p. 339.</ref></div>

Tanmatras are trifled, rudimentary or subtle elements from which the grosser elements ([[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhoota]]) are produced.<ref>Sir Monnier Williams, Sanskrit English Dictionary, Southern Publication, Madras, 1987, P. 434.</ref> The shabdadi (subject of senses / quality of [[Pancha mahabhuta|Mahabhootas]]) which are anudbhuta (In evolutionary stage) and can not be sensed by external sense organs are ‘tanmatras’. Only a person with highly developed senses like yogi can experience it.<ref>Dalhan, NibandhSangraha commentary on SushrutSamhita,SharirSthana Chapter1,Verse 4,Chaukhamba Orientallia, Varanasi 1997,p. 339.</ref></div>

== Types of tanmatras ==

== Types of tanmatras ==

There are five sense perceptions -hearing, touch, sight, taste and smell and there are five tanmatras corresponding to the five-sense perception <ref>Gaudpadabhashya on ShriIshvarkrishnavirachitaSankhyakarika,Verse22 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953. P.4,5.</ref>

There are five sense perceptions -hearing, touch, sight, taste and smell and there are five tanmatras corresponding to the five-sense perception <ref>Gaudpadabhashya on ShriIshvarkrishnavirachitaSankhyakarika,Verse22 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953. P.4,5.</ref>

<br/>These are five in number

<br/>These are five in number

# Shabdatanmatra or sukshma [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha mahabhuta]]

# Shabda tanmatra or sukshma [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha mahabhuta]]

# Sparshatanmatra or sukshma [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayumahabhuta]]

# Sparsha tanmatra or sukshma [[vayu mahabhuta]]

# Rupa tanmatra or sukshma [[Agni mahabhuta|teja/agnimahabhuta]]

# Rupa tanmatra or sukshma [[Agni mahabhuta|teja/agni mahabhuta]]

# Rasa tanmatra or sukshma [[Jala mahabhuta|jala/aapmahabhuta]]

# Rasa tanmatra or sukshma [[Jala mahabhuta|jala/aap mahabhuta]]

# Gandhatanmatra or sukshma [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvimahabhuta]]</div>

# Gandha tanmatra or sukshma [[prithvi mahabhuta]]</div>

=== Synonyms ===

=== Synonyms ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

Sukshmabhoota<ref>Chakrapani, Ayurved Dipika Vyakhya on CharakaSamhitaSharirSthan Chapter 1, verse 63, ChaukhambaSurbharati Publication, 1992, P.293.</ref>, avishesha<ref>ShriIshvarkrishna ,Sankhyakarika, verse 38 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953. P.33.</ref>, paramanu<ref>Dr.V.J. Thakar, AyurvediyaMaulik Siddhant, Gujrat Ayurved University, Jamnagar,1985 P.135.</ref>. </div>

Sukshma bhoota<ref>Chakrapani, Ayurved Dipika Vyakhya on CharakaSamhitaSharirSthan Chapter 1, verse 63, ChaukhambaSurbharati Publication, 1992, P.293.</ref>, avishesha<ref>ShriIshvarkrishna ,Sankhyakarika, verse 38 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953. P.33.</ref>, paramanu<ref>Dr.V.J. Thakar, AyurvediyaMaulik Siddhant, Gujrat Ayurved University, Jamnagar,1985 P.135.</ref>. </div>

== Concept of Tanmatra as per Sankhyaphilosophy ==

== Concept of Tanmatra as per Sankhya philosophy ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

While describing the surge of Universe the Sankhya explains the role of tanmatra.  Sankhya enlisted 25 principles behind creation of universe. These principles are classified into 4 categories according to their role in the surge.<ref>ShriIshvarkrishna ,Sankhyakarika verse 3 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953.P4.</ref></div>

While describing the surge of Universe the Sankhya explains the role of tanmatra.  Sankhya enlisted 25 principles behind creation of universe. These principles are classified into 4 categories according to their role in the surge.<ref>ShriIshvarkrishna ,Sankhyakarika verse 3 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953.P4.</ref></div>

|-

|-

| style="text-align:center;" | 1

| style="text-align:center;" | 1

| Mulaprakriti (origin/ creator)

| Mula [[prakriti]] (origin/ creator)

| [[Prakriti|prakriti]]

| [[Prakriti|prakriti]]

| style="text-align:center;" | 01

| style="text-align:center;" | 01

| style="text-align:center;" | 2

| style="text-align:center;" | 2

| Prakriti-vikriti (creator & creation dual nature)

| Prakriti-vikriti (creator & creation dual nature)

| Mahat<br/>Ahankar<br/>Panchtanmatra

| [[Mahat]]<br/>[[Ahankar]]<br/>Panchtanmatra

| style="text-align:center;" | 07

| style="text-align:center;" | 07

|-

|-

| style="text-align:center;" | 3

| style="text-align:center;" | 3

| Vikar (creation)

| Vikar (creation)

| [[Pancha mahabhuta|Panchamahabhoota]] (Five fundamental elements)<br/>Panchajnanendrya (Five sense organs)<br/>Panchakarmendriya (five motor organs)<br/>[[Manas|Mind (mana)]]

| [[Pancha mahabhuta|Panchamahabhoota]] (five fundamental elements)<br/>[[Panchajnanendriya]] (five sense organs)<br/>[[Panchakarmendriya]] (five motor organs)<br/>[[Manas|Mind (mana)]]

| style="text-align:center;" | 16

| style="text-align:center;" | 16

|-

|-

|}

|}

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>

According to Sankhyas at the initial stage the two original eternal principles are mulaprakruti or [[Avyakta|avyakta]] (principal origin) and [[Purusha|purusha]].<br/>[[Prakriti|Prakriti]] is the original state with balanced state of [[Triguna|triguna]], everything is in a mass and one thing cannot be distinguished from one another. [[Prakriti|Prakriti]] with the help of [[Purusha|purusha]] causes the creation. <ref>Dr.D.L. Chary, A Textbook of PadarthaVijnanaEvumAyurvedItihasa,Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan,Delhi,2017, P.74.</ref><br/>

According to Sankhyas at the initial stage the two original eternal principles are mula [[prakriti]] or [[Avyakta|avyakta]] (principal origin) and [[Purusha|purusha]].<br/>[[Prakriti|Prakriti]] is the original state with balanced state of [[Triguna|triguna]], everything is in a mass and one thing cannot be distinguished from one another. [[Prakriti|Prakriti]] with the help of [[Purusha|purusha]] causes the creation. <ref>Dr.D.L. Chary, A Textbook of Padartha Vijnana Evum Ayurved Itihasa, Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan,Delhi,2017, P.74.</ref><br/>

The next principle mahat (cosmic intellect) gets originated from [[Avyakta|avyakta]], and this further originates ahankara (ego/ self sense of cosmos). The ahankara is of three types.

The next principle [[mahat]] (cosmic intellect) gets originated from [[Avyakta|avyakta]], and this further originates [[ahankara]] (ego/ self sense of cosmos). The [[ahankara]] is of three types.

# Sattvika: Ahankara with dominance of [[Sattva|sattva]], also known as vaikarika.

# Sattvika: [[Ahankara]] with dominance of [[Sattva|sattva]], also known as vaikarika.

# Rajasika: Ahankara with dominance of [[Rajas|rajas]], also known as tejas.

# Rajasika: [[Ahankara]] with dominance of [[Rajas|rajas]], also known as tejas.

# Tamasika: Ahankara with dominance of [[Tamas|tamas]], also known as bhutadi.

# Tamasika: [[Ahankara]] with dominance of [[Tamas|tamas]], also known as bhutadi.

The tanmatras originate from tamas ahankara with the help of [[Rajas|rajas]] ahankara. These tanmatras are subtle structures considered as ‘avishesha’ and are the sources of [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta (five basic elements)]]. The [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta]] are macroscopic structures and categorized as vikara (creations). Eleven [[Indriya|indriyas]] originate from satvika ahankara with help of rajasika ahankara. Tanmatras are principles/ elements with dual nature (i.e. creator and creations) originated from [[Tamas|tamas]] and [[Rajas|rajas]] ahankara. These tanmatras create gross elements.</div>

The tanmatras originate from tamas ahankara with the help of [[Rajas|rajas]] ahankara. These tanmatras are subtle structures considered as ‘avishesha’ and are the sources of [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta (five basic elements)]]. The [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta]] are macroscopic structures and categorized as vikara (creations). Eleven [[Indriya|indriyas]] originate from sattvika [[ahankara]] with help of rajasika [[ahankara]]. Tanmatras are principles/ elements with dual nature (i.e. creator and creations) originated from [[Tamas|tamas]] and [[Rajas|rajas]] ahankara. These tanmatras create gross elements.</div>

== Vedant philosophy ==

== Vedant philosophy ==

== Ayurveda ==

== Ayurveda ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Twenty four principles (chaturvinshatitatvatmak [[Purusha|purusha]]) are listed in [[Charak Samhita New Edition|Charak Samhita]]. Instead of 25 principles mentioned by [[Sharira Sankhya Sharira|Samkhya]], here only 24 principles are counted. The [[Purusha|purusha]] and [[Prakriti|prakriti]] considered as one principle that is [[Avyakta|avyakta]].<ref>Chakrapani, Ayurved Dipika Vyakhya on CharakaSamhitaSharirSthan, Chapter 1 verse 60 ChaukhambaSurbharati Publication, 1992, P.293.</ref> These principles are classified into two categories – 8 [[Prakriti|prakriti]] (creators) and 16 vikara (creations)[Cha.Sa. ShariraSthana1/63].Tanmatras are considered as [[Prakriti|prakriti]] tattva and  para (supreme). [Cha.Sa. ShariraSthana 1/35]  Sushruta explained the surge in universe, counted 24 principles (tattva). He has mentioned the creation of tanmatras from [[Tamas|tamasa]] and [[Rajas|rajasa]] ahankara. [Su.Sa. ShariraSthana 1]</div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Twenty four principles (chaturvinshati tatvatmak [[Purusha|purusha]]) are listed in [[Charak Samhita New Edition|Charak Samhita]]. Instead of 25 principles mentioned by [[Sharira Sankhya Sharira|Samkhya]], here only 24 principles are counted. The [[Purusha|purusha]] and [[Prakriti|prakriti]] considered as one principle that is [[Avyakta|avyakta]].<ref>Chakrapani, Ayurved Dipika Vyakhya on CharakaSamhitaSharirSthan, Chapter 1 verse 60 ChaukhambaSurbharati Publication, 1992, P.293.</ref> These principles are classified into two categories – 8 [[Prakriti|prakriti]] (creators) and 16 vikara (creations) [Cha.Sa. ShariraSthana1/63]. Tanmatras are considered as [[Prakriti|prakriti]] tattva and  para (supreme). [Cha.Sa. ShariraSthana 1/35]  Sushruta explained the surge in universe, counted 24 principles (tattva). He has mentioned the creation of tanmatras from [[Tamas|tamasa]] and [[Rajas|rajasa]] ahankara. [Su.Sa. ShariraSthana 1]</div>

== Theories of origination of mahabhutas from tanmatras ==

== Theories of origination of mahabhutas from tanmatras ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>There are various opinions about origination of gross elements ([[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhutas]]) from subtle elements (tanmatras)

<div style='text-align:justify;'>There are various opinions about origination of gross elements ([[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhutas]]) from subtle elements (tanmatras)

<ol><li>Each [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhuta]] originates from its own tanmatra. As commented by Shri Gaudapad on Sankhyakarika, [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha]] originated from shabdatanmatra, [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]] from sparshatanmatra, [[Agni mahabhuta|agni]] from rupatanmatra, [[Jala mahabhuta|jala]] from rasa [[Tanmatra|tanmatra]] and [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvi]] from gandhatanmatra respectively.<ref>Gaudpadabhashya on ShriIshvarkrishnavirachitaSankhyakarika,Verse3 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953. P4.</ref>

<ol><li>Each [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhuta]] originates from its own tanmatra. As commented by Shri Gaudapad on Sankhyakarika, [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha]] originated from shabda tanmatra, [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]] from sparsha tanmatra, [[Agni mahabhuta|agni]] from rupa tanmatra, [[Jala mahabhuta|jala]] from rasa [[Tanmatra|tanmatra]] and [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvi]] from gandha tanmatra respectively.<ref>Gaudpadabhashya on ShriIshvarkrishnavirachitaSankhyakarika,Verse3 Chaukhamba Sanskrit SerieseOffice,Varanasi, 1953. P4.</ref>

<li>Quintiplication (panchikarana): <br/>In Vedant philosophy, it is believed that for formation of each gross element all tanmatras take part in specific proportion. The dominance of concerned tanmatra gives rise to the concerned [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhoota]]. That is in each sthulabhuta 50% or ½ portion will show dominance of its own tanmatra and rest four tanmatras will occupy 1/8th  portion (12.50%) each. This is known as panchikarana.<ref>ShrimatsadanandYogeendra, Vedantsar, Verse 28, Chaukhambha Publishers, Varanasi.1998,P.36.</ref></li>

<li>Quintiplication (panchikarana): <br/>In Vedant philosophy, it is believed that for formation of each gross element all tanmatras take part in specific proportion. The dominance of concerned tanmatra gives rise to the concerned [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhoota]]. That is in each sthulabhuta 50% or ½ portion will show dominance of its own tanmatra and rest four tanmatras will occupy 1/8th  portion (12.50%) each. This is known as panchikarana.<ref>ShrimatsadanandYogeendra, Vedantsar, Verse 28, Chaukhambha Publishers, Varanasi.1998,P.36.</ref></li>

For example, [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha mahabhoota]] is formed by combination of - 50% of shabdatanmatra, 12.5% of sparshatanmatra, 12.5% of rupatanmatra, 12.5% of rasa tanmatra and 12.5% of gandhatanmatra.

For example, [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha mahabhoota]] is formed by combination of - 50% of shabda tanmatra, 12.5% of sparsha tanmatra, 12.5% of rupa tanmatra, 12.5% of rasa tanmatra and 12.5% of gandha tanmatra.

<li>Addition of properties (kramotpatti<ref>Dr. V.J. Thakar, AyurvediyaMaulik Siddhant, Gujrat Ayurved University, Jamnagar,1985, P.136.</ref>/ bhutantaraanupravesha<ref>Chakrapani, Ayurved Dipika Vyakhya on CharakaSamhitaSharirSthan 1 verse28 ChaukhambaSurbharati Publication, 1992, P.289.</ref>/ ekottarparivriddhi<ref>Dalhan ,NibandhSangrahacommentary on SushrutSamhita,Sharir Sthana,Chapter1,Verse 4,Chaukhamba Orientallia, Varanasi 1997,p  339.</ref>)<br/>When the gross elements originate from its own tanmatra, the previous element’s tanmatra also plays role in its creation. That means first [[Akasha mahabhuta|akash]] originates from shabdatanmatra. Thereafter, [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayumahabhoota]] originates from sparshatanmatra along with shabdatanmatra. So [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]] shows two qualities [[Shabda|shabda]] and [[Sparsha|sparsha]], and so on/ The properties of each [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhuta]] in sequential formation are shown in table below. </li></ol></div>

<li>Addition of properties (kramotpatti<ref>Dr. V.J. Thakar, AyurvediyaMaulik Siddhant, Gujrat Ayurved University, Jamnagar,1985, P.136.</ref>/ bhutantaraanupravesha<ref>Chakrapani, Ayurved Dipika Vyakhya on CharakaSamhitaSharirSthan 1 verse28 ChaukhambaSurbharati Publication, 1992, P.289.</ref>/ ekottarparivriddhi<ref>Dalhan ,NibandhSangrahacommentary on SushrutSamhita,Sharir Sthana,Chapter1,Verse 4,Chaukhamba Orientallia, Varanasi 1997,p  339.</ref>)<br/>When the gross elements originate from its own tanmatra, the previous element’s tanmatra also plays role in its creation. That means first [[Akasha mahabhuta|akash]] originates from shabdatanmatra. Thereafter, [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu mahabhoota]] originates from sparsha tanmatra along with shabda tanmatra. So [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]] shows two qualities [[Shabda|shabda]] and [[Sparsha|sparsha]], and so on/ The properties of each [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhuta]] in sequential formation are shown in table below. </li></ol></div>

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

|+ Table: Sequential formation of mahabhuta, their properties with tanmatra:

|+ Table: Sequential formation of mahabhuta, their properties with tanmatra:

| style="text-align:center;" | 5

| style="text-align:center;" | 5

| [[Shabda|Shabda]] + [[Sparsha|Sparsha]] + [[Rupa|Rupa]] + [[Rasa|Rasa]] + [[Gandha|Gandha]]

| [[Shabda|Shabda]] + [[Sparsha|Sparsha]] + [[Rupa|Rupa]] + [[Rasa|Rasa]] + [[Gandha|Gandha]]

| [[Prithvi mahabhuta|Pruthvi]]

| [[Prithvi mahabhuta|Prithvi]]

| [[Shabda|Shabda]], [[Sparsha|Sparsha]], [[Rupa|Rupa]], [[Rasa|Rasa]], [[Gandha|Gandha]]

| [[Shabda|Shabda]], [[Sparsha|Sparsha]], [[Rupa|Rupa]], [[Rasa|Rasa]], [[Gandha|Gandha]]

|-

|-

|}

|}

=== Vaisheshika theory of creation of mahabhuta ===

=== Vaisheshika theory of creation of [[mahabhuta]] ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Vaisheshika considers paramanu as the subtle element responsible for production of gross elements. As [[Akasha mahabhuta|akash]] is omnipresent, does not exist in the form of paramanu, so in the initial stage the paramanus of 4 elements ([[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]], [[Agni mahabhuta|agni]], [[Jala mahabhuta|jala]], [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvi]]) are in the balanced state. At surge, they start moving, they combine in specific way, two atoms of same category combine to form a binary molecule (dvyanuka), combination of three dvayanukaforming tryanuka, furthermore combine into grosser molecules of chaturunuka, and so on. The other view is that atoms form diads and triads directly to form molecules of different substances. Atoms possess an incessant vibratory motion. The activity of the atoms and their combinations are not arbitrary but according to laws that are expressed as the adrushta.<ref>Subhash Kak, Indian Physics Outline of Early history, P.14. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.physics/0310001[Accessed on 15 Sept 2022.]</ref></div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Vaisheshika considers paramanu as the subtle element responsible for production of gross elements. As [[Akasha mahabhuta|akash]] is omnipresent, does not exist in the form of paramanu, so in the initial stage the paramanus of 4 elements ([[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]], [[Agni mahabhuta|agni]], [[Jala mahabhuta|jala]], [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvi]]) are in the balanced state. At surge, they start moving, they combine in specific way, two atoms of same category combine to form a binary molecule (dvyanuka), combination of three dvayanuka forming tryanuka, furthermore combine into grosser molecules of chaturunuka, and so on. The other view is that atoms form diads and triads directly to form molecules of different substances. Atoms possess an incessant vibratory motion. The activity of the atoms and their combinations are not arbitrary but according to laws that are expressed as the adrushta.<ref>Subhash Kak, Indian Physics Outline of Early history, P.14. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.physics/0310001[Accessed on 15 Sept 2022.]</ref></div>

== Contemporary theories ==

== Contemporary theories ==

=== Tanmatra and elementary particles ===

=== Tanmatra and elementary particles ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Modern science supports the proposition that five tanmatraare the progenitors of their visible counterparts by describingbasic formative particles (electron, proton and neutron- whichcould be the tanmatras) combining in different proportionsand forming atoms, elements and compounds.<ref>Sanjeev Rastogi, Building bridges between Ayurveda and Modern Science, Indian journal of Ayurveda Research, Jan-March2010, Vol.I, Issue I, p.43.</ref></div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Modern science supports the proposition that five tanmatra are the progenitors of their visible counterparts by describing basic formative particles (electron, proton and neutron- which could be the tanmatras) combining in different proportions and forming atoms, elements and compounds.<ref>Sanjeev Rastogi, Building bridges between Ayurveda and Modern Science, Indian journal of Ayurveda Research, Jan-March2010, Vol.I, Issue I, p.43.</ref></div>

=== Significance ===

=== Significance ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The study of tanmatra is important in order to understand our origin, as they are the connectors between subtle ([[Avyakta|avyakta]]) and gross (vyakta). Also, in order to describe the link between the sense organs and the elements, the Sankhyaschool developed the concept of tanmatra. The properties of elements are specified with particular qualities which share something in common.<ref>R.K Mishra, Before the Beginning and after the Death, New Delhi,2000, P.299.</ref><br/>Tanmatra is an important concept to understand and build base for Ayurved biology.<ref>Exploring Quantum Logic in Ayurveda with special reference to Srotovijnanaof Ayurveda, R.H.Singh Ayu Vol30 No.4 2009</ref></div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The study of tanmatra is important in order to understand our origin, as they are the connectors between subtle ([[Avyakta|avyakta]]) and gross (vyakta). Also, in order to describe the link between the sense organs and the elements, the Sankhya school developed the concept of tanmatra. The properties of elements are specified with particular qualities which share something in common.<ref>R.K Mishra, Before the Beginning and after the Death, New Delhi,2000, P.299.</ref><br/>Tanmatra is an important concept to understand and build base for Ayurved biology.<ref>Exploring Quantum Logic in Ayurveda with special reference to Srotovijnanaof Ayurveda, R.H.Singh Ayu Vol30 No.4 2009</ref></div>

== Application of tanmatra in health and prevention of diseases ==

== Application of tanmatra in health and prevention of diseases ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Tanmatras are subtle forms of fundamental elements (sukshmamahabhuta). The meditation on tanmatra helps a yogi to control the senses and desire. On the same parlance the meditation on tanmatras help to prevent intellectual errors (pragnaparadha) and improper union of senses with objects (asatmyaindriyarthasamyoga). Knowledge of subtler form can help to achieve positive health in terms of physical, mental and spiritual aspects. </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Tanmatras are subtle forms of fundamental elements (sukshma [[mahabhuta]]). The meditation on tanmatra helps a yogi to control the senses and desire. On the same parlance the meditation on tanmatras help to prevent intellectual errors ([[prajnaparadha]]) and improper union of senses with objects (asatmya indriyartha samyoga). Knowledge of subtler form can help to achieve positive health in terms of physical, mental and spiritual aspects. </div>

== Application of tanmatra in clinical practices ==

== Application of tanmatra in clinical practices ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The tanmatra is the basic platform for panchabhautikasiddhant, which is widely used in [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]] clinical practices. Some of the applications  are as below:  

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The tanmatra is the basic platform for panchabhautika siddhanta, which is widely used in [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]] clinical practices. Some of the applications  are as below:  

<ol><li>Formation of foetus: Five elements and soul/conscious ([[Atma|atma]]) conjugates to form foetus.[Cha.Sa.ShariraSthana4/6]</li>

<ol><li>Formation of foetus: Five elements and soul/conscious ([[Atma|atma]]) conjugates to form foetus.[Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana]] 4/6]</li>

<li>[[Prakriti|Prakriti]] nirmana:Panchabhautiki prakriti is formed. [Su. Sa. ShariraSthana4]</li>

<li>[[Prakriti|Prakriti]] nirmana:Panchabhautiki prakriti is formed. [Su. Sa. Sharira Sthana 4]</li>

<li>[[Sharira|Body]] elements and [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhutas]]:

<li>[[Sharira|Body]] elements and [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhutas]]:

<ol type="I">

<ol type="I">

   <li>[[Shabda|Shabda(sound)]], sense of hearing, porous structures in the body are showing dominance of [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha mahabhuta]].  Touch, skin, pulsations, lightness, and all movements are due to [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayumahabhuta]]. Vison, eyes, colour, temperature, digestion ,bravery are due to [[Agni mahabhuta|tejamahabhuta]]. Taste, tongue, coldness, unctuousness, semen and all liquid components of [[Sharira|body]] show dominance of [[Jala mahabhuta|Jalamahabhuta]]. Sense of smell, nose, and all solid structures are due to [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvimahabhuta]] dominance. [Su. Sa.ShariraSthana 1/19]</li>

   <li>[[Shabda|Shabda(sound)]], sense of hearing, porous structures in the body are showing dominance of [[Akasha mahabhuta|akasha mahabhuta]].  Touch, skin, pulsations, lightness, and all movements are due to [[vayu mahabhuta]]. Vison, eyes, colour, temperature, digestion ,bravery are due to [[Agni mahabhuta|teja mahabhuta]]. Taste, tongue, coldness, unctuousness, semen and all liquid components of [[Sharira|body]] show dominance of [[Jala mahabhuta]]. Sense of smell, nose, and all solid structures are due to [[prithvi mahabhuta]] dominance. [Su. Sa.Sharira Sthana 1/19]</li>

<li>[[Dosha|Dosha]] with specific dominance of [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta]]:

<li>[[Dosha|Dosha]] with specific dominance of [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta]]:

* [[Vata dosha|Vata dosha]]: [[Vayu mahabhuta|Vayu]] + [[Akasha mahabhuta|Akash]]

* [[Vata dosha|Vata dosha]]: [[Vayu mahabhuta|Vayu]] + [[Akasha mahabhuta|Akash]]

<li>[[Ahara|Ahara]], the foodis also panchabhautika. [Su. Sa. Sutra Sthana 46/ 526]</li>

<li>[[Ahara|Ahara]], the foodis also panchabhautika. [Su. Sa. Sutra Sthana 46/ 526]</li>

<li>All [[Dravya|dravya]] are panchabhautika [A.Hr. Sutra Sthana9/5-10]</li>

<li>All [[Dravya|dravya]] are panchabhautika [A.Hr. Sutra Sthana9/5-10]</li>

<li>Shodhanadravya(drugs used for elimination of [[Dosha|dosha]]) have predominance of specific [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhuta]].  The drugs useful for [[Vamana|vamana]](therapeuticemesis) have dominance of [[Agni mahabhuta|agni]] and [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayumahabhuta]]. [[Virechana|Virechana]]( therapeuticpurgation) [[Dravya|dravya]] have dominance of [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvi]] and [[Jala mahabhuta|jalamahabhuta]]. [Cha. Sa. KalpaSthana1/5]</li></ol>

<li>Shodhanadravya(drugs used for elimination of [[Dosha|dosha]]) have predominance of specific [[Pancha mahabhuta|mahabhuta]].  The drugs useful for [[Vamana|vamana]](therapeutic emesis) have dominance of [[Agni mahabhuta|agni]] and [[vayu mahabhuta]]. [[Virechana|Virechana]]( therapeutic purgation) [[Dravya|dravya]] have dominance of [[Prithvi mahabhuta|prithvi]] and [[jala mahabhuta]]. [Cha. Sa. KalpaSthana1/5]</li></ol>

</li></ol>

</li></ol>

Thus, as the [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta]] are key elements of [[Purusha|purusha]] and [[Prakriti|prakriti]], their subtle forms, tanmatra play important role in designing the fundamental constitution.</div>

Thus, as the [[Pancha mahabhuta|panchamahabhuta]] are key elements of [[Purusha|purusha]] and [[Prakriti|prakriti]], their subtle forms, tanmatra play important role in designing the fundamental constitution.</div>

== Future scope of research ==

== Future scope of research ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The relationship of tanmatra with elements in modern physics needs to be investigated for better understanding.</div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The relationship of tanmatra with elements in modern physics needs to be investigated for better understanding.</div>

== References ==

== References ==