Ritual

Samkhya's view that it is possible for one element to change into
another also tallies with modern physics. Kaplan further
comments:
The transmutability of the elements has been shown in many ways. For
example, it is possible, by bombarding certain elements with extremely
rapidly-moving electrical particles, to change them into others, and to
even produce elements which do not occur in nature because they are
unstable (radioactive). We go even further. It is possible to produce
matter, such as electrons, from radiation (light). Thus the ultimate
constituent of the universe of the physicist is energy of radiation - that is,
light. Thus the Samkhya theory is in absolute agreement with the latest
results of physics. It is interesting here to make the following comment.
The atomic theory is the product of the Western mind. In his naive way
the Western scientist generalizes the experience that one can subdivide
matter until one meets an ultimate particle into an atomic theory
assuming many elements. The Hindu philosopher goes much further and
reduces everything to one element. 24
Sound
The importance of sound and its basic vibrations has been
investigated and explained with considerable detail in Indian
thought. The Nyaya-Vaiseshika's hypothetical analysis of sound in
its physical aspect and the mode of its propagation centres round
the following: sound is conceived to be the specific quality of
space. The physical basis of sound is traced to a mechanical impact
which generates vibrations in the molecules of the object struck,
which in turn impinge against surrounding molecules of air to
produce sound. Sound expands in space as waves propagate in an
ocean, and it is said to increase in successive concentric spherical
layers of filaments which emanate from one another. Further, it is
maintained that sound can be distinguished into decreasing orders
of subtlety: Sphota or transcendental sound; Nada or supersonic
sound which can be but is not necessarily heard; and Dhvani or
audible sound. The articulate sound we all experience is Dhvani.
The basis for this concept of sound is a central doctrine described
in tantras as Sphotavada, the foundation of tantric mantras which
form an important aspect of ritual. By repetition of sound
syllables, vibratory rhythms are created in the body to awaken the
psychic fields. Everything from the subtlest idea to gross forms
of matter is a product of the coagulation of simple or complex
combinations of vibrations. Every object has its norm of sound as
an accompaniment of its energy. Vibration, therefore, is one of the
numerous results of sound and not, as it is commonly held, its cause.
VII Conjunction of the sun and
the moon with zodiacal divisions.
Rajasthan, c. 19th century.
Gouache on paper.
VIII Cosmological charts from an
illuminated manuscript. Gujarat,
c. 16th century. Gouache on paper.
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