The Essence of Water: Tanmatra and Its Significance in Vedic Philosophy

In the vast realm of Vedic philosophy, the concept of tanmatras stands as a fundamental principle, embodying the subtle yet powerful essence of creation's building blocks. The term tanmatras refers to the innermost principles or the potential active ingredients that form the basis of perception and experience. This article delves into the significance of water tanmatra, one of the five tanmatras that manifest in various forms and play a crucial role in our understanding of reality.

Understanding Tanmatras

At the heart of Vedic philosophy lies the concept of tanmatras, which are fine, subtle elements that underlie the perception of various sensory experiences. These tanmatras, being the essence of the mahabhutas (gross elements), consist of the five basic elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. Each tanmatra is associated with a particular quality or attribute that is perceived through one of the senses.

Water Tanmatra: A Brief Overview

Water tanmatra, or jala tanmatra, is one of the five tanmatras intimately connected with the water mahabhuta. This tanmatra represents the essence of water, which is perceived primarily through the sense of rasha (taste). When discussing tanmatras, they are not to be confused with the gross elements themselves, but rather as the potential and latent essence that forms the basis of sensory experiences.

Water Tanmatra in Vedic Literature

The learned Vaisnava Acharaya Srila Kedar Nath Bhaktivinode Thakur elaborates on the composition of material nature in his seminal work Jaiva Dharma. He explains that material nature is made up of twenty-four elements, which include the five gross mahabhutas, five concomitant sense objects (smell, taste, form, touch, and sound), and ten sensory organs (five sensory and five motor organs). Additionally, he mentions five mental components (mind, heart, contaminated consciousness, intelligence, and false ego), bringing the total to twenty-four.

Water is identified as one of the sense objects specifically corresponding to the water mahabhuta, but it is not one of the tanmatras. This distinction underscores the intricate relationship between the gross and subtle elements in Vedic philosophy.

The Function of Tanmatras

Tanmatras serve as the foundation for sensory experiences, enabling the manifestation of the subtle essence of reality. For instance, the water tanmatra enables us to experience and perceive the sensation of taste, which is closely associated with water-based substances. In the realm of perception, tanmatras are instrumental in transforming the abstract into the concrete, allowing us to interact with the world around us.

For example, when we encounter flowers such as Kamala, Kairava, Raktakalhara, and Indevara, the water tanmatra plays a significant role. These flowers are described as root tanmatras, and their essence is experienced through a range of specific sub-feelings that lie between love and hate. Through the practice of yoga, one can gain precise control over these emotions, offering a profound understanding of the nature of consciousness.

Conclusion

The concept of water tanmatra is a rich and profound aspect of Vedic philosophy, offering deep insights into the nature of reality and perception. By understanding the role of tanmatras, particularly water tanmatra, we gain a more nuanced appreciation of the intricate workings of the mind and the universe. This knowledge not only enhances our comprehension of spiritual practices but also contributes to a more holistic view of life.