The Concept of Tattvas

Description: This quiz is designed to assess your understanding of the concept of Tattvas in Indian philosophy.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: indian philosophy indian metaphysics tattvas
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What is the literal meaning of the term 'Tattva'?

  1. Truth

  2. Reality

  3. Principle

  4. Element


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The term 'Tattva' is derived from the Sanskrit root 'tattvam', which means 'principle' or 'element'.

According to Samkhya philosophy, how many Tattvas are there?

  1. 24

  2. 25

  3. 26

  4. 27


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

In Samkhya philosophy, there are 25 Tattvas, which are classified into two categories: the Prakriti (nature) and the Purusha (consciousness).

What is the primary function of the Prakriti in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. To create the universe

  2. To sustain the universe

  3. To dissolve the universe

  4. To experience the universe


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Prakriti is the creative principle in Samkhya philosophy, and its primary function is to create the universe through the process of evolution.

What are the three Gunas of the Prakriti?

  1. Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas

  2. Dharma, Artha, and Kama

  3. Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva

  4. Purusha, Prakriti, and Mahat


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Prakriti is composed of three Gunas: Sattva (goodness), Rajas (passion), and Tamas (darkness). These Gunas are responsible for the creation and manifestation of the universe.

Which Tattva is considered the highest principle in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. Purusha

  2. Prakriti

  3. Mahat

  4. Buddhi


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Purusha is the highest principle in Samkhya philosophy, and it represents pure consciousness. It is the unchanging and eternal witness of the Prakriti and its evolutes.

What is the relationship between the Purusha and the Prakriti?

  1. They are separate and independent entities

  2. They are two aspects of the same reality

  3. They are in a state of constant conflict

  4. They are completely unrelated


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

In Samkhya philosophy, the Purusha and the Prakriti are considered to be two aspects of the same reality. They are interdependent and mutually complementary.

What is the goal of Samkhya philosophy?

  1. To achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth

  2. To attain union with the divine

  3. To gain knowledge of the ultimate reality

  4. To experience the pleasures of the world


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The goal of Samkhya philosophy is to achieve liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and rebirth. This is achieved through the realization of the true nature of the Purusha and the Prakriti.

Which school of Indian philosophy is closely associated with the concept of Tattvas?

  1. Samkhya

  2. Yoga

  3. Vedanta

  4. Nyaya


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The concept of Tattvas is primarily associated with the Samkhya school of Indian philosophy, which is known for its dualistic metaphysics.

What is the term used to describe the process of evolution of the Prakriti in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. Prakriti-vikara

  2. Prakriti-parinama

  3. Prakriti-sattva

  4. Prakriti-rajas


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The process of evolution of the Prakriti in Samkhya philosophy is referred to as Prakriti-vikara, which means 'transformation of nature'.

Which Tattva is considered the first evolute of the Prakriti in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. Mahat

  2. Buddhi

  3. Ahamkara

  4. Manas


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The first evolute of the Prakriti in Samkhya philosophy is Mahat, also known as the cosmic intellect or universal consciousness.

What is the role of Buddhi in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. It discriminates between right and wrong

  2. It determines the course of action

  3. It experiences pleasure and pain

  4. It creates the universe


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Buddhi, also known as the intellect, is responsible for discrimination between right and wrong, and it helps in decision-making.

Which Tattva is responsible for the sense of 'I' or ego in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. Mahat

  2. Buddhi

  3. Ahamkara

  4. Manas


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Ahamkara, also known as the ego, is responsible for the sense of 'I' or individuality and is considered a product of the Prakriti.

What is the role of Manas in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. It controls the senses

  2. It coordinates the activities of the senses

  3. It receives sensory inputs

  4. It stores memories


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Manas, also known as the mind, coordinates the activities of the senses and helps in the perception of objects.

Which Tattva is considered the subtlest of the five elements in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. Earth

  2. Water

  3. Fire

  4. Air


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Air is considered the subtlest of the five elements in Samkhya philosophy due to its pervasive and intangible nature.

What is the term used to describe the state of equilibrium of the three Gunas in Samkhya philosophy?

  1. Sattva-guna

  2. Rajas-guna

  3. Tamas-guna

  4. Samya-avastha


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Samya-avastha refers to the state of equilibrium of the three Gunas, where they are in perfect balance and harmony.

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