Leela and the tattvas

The 32 Tattvas and Their Relation to Leela's States

The 32 tattvas are fundamental principles that range from the gross physical elements to the most subtle spiritual realities. They are often grouped into categories:

  1. Five Gross Elements (Mahabhutas):

    • Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether
    • Correspond to the physical aspects of existence.
    • Relation to Leela: Represented in the lower planes (Squares 1–9), aligning with basic survival and physical experiences.

  2. Five Subtle Elements (Tanmatras):

    • Smell, Taste, Sight, Touch, Sound
    • Underpin sensory experiences.
    • Relation to Leela: Reflected in Squares 10–18, associated with desires and sensory pleasures.

  3. Ten Senses (Indriyas):

    • Five Knowledge Senses (Jnanendriyas): Hearing, Touch, Sight, Taste, Smell
    • Five Action Senses (Karmendriyas): Speech, Grasping, Walking, Procreation, Excretion
    • Relation to Leela: Found in Squares 19–27, involving actions and reactions in the world.

  4. Mind and Its Functions:

    • Manas (Mind), Ahamkara (Ego), Buddhi (Intellect)
    • Govern thoughts, identity, and understanding.
    • Relation to Leela: Present in Squares 28–36, where personal relationships and emotions are processed.

  5. The Individual Soul and Nature:

    • Purusha (Consciousness), Prakriti (Nature)
    • The interplay of the soul and material nature.
    • Relation to Leela: Explored in Squares 37–45, dealing with self-expression and creativity.

  6. Higher Principles:

    • Maya (Illusion), Kalā (Creativity), Vidyā (Knowledge), Rāga (Attachment), Kāla (Time), Niyati (Destiny)
    • Control cosmic functions and spiritual evolution.
    • Relation to Leela: Integrated into Squares 46–54, focusing on insight and inner wisdom.

  7. Pure Consciousness:

    • Shiva (Pure Consciousness), Shakti (Divine Energy)
    • Represent ultimate reality.
    • Relation to Leela: Embodied in Squares 55–72, where one attains enlightenment and cosmic union.

Mapping the States to the Tattvas

  • Physical and Sensory Experiences (Squares 1–18):

    • Governed by the Mahabhutas and Tanmatras.
    • Players navigate basic desires and sensory attachments.

  • Actions and Ego (Squares 19–27):

    • Influenced by the Indriyas and Ahamkara.
    • Challenges related to ambition and personal power arise.

  • Emotions and Relationships (Squares 28–36):

    • Shaped by Manas, Buddhi, and emotional tattvas.
    • Emphasizes compassion and harmony.

  • Expression and Creativity (Squares 37–45):

    • Linked to Purusha and Prakriti.
    • Encourages authentic self-expression.

  • Inner Knowledge and Wisdom (Squares 46–54):

    • Aligned with higher principles like Vidyā and Kāla.
    • Players develop intuition and clarity.

  • Spiritual Awakening (Squares 55–63):

    • Connected to Maya, Shiva, and Shakti.
    • The journey toward enlightenment intensifies.

  • Cosmic Union (Squares 64–72):

    • Represents the culmination of all tattvas.
    • The soul attains liberation and unity with the divine.

Conclusion

The 72 states of consciousness in Leela serve as a microcosm of the 32 tattvas, illustrating the soul's progression from physical existence to ultimate reality. Each square on the game board is a step through the tattvas, embodying lessons and experiences that guide the player toward self-realization.

By navigating the game, players symbolically traverse the complex landscape of human consciousness, encountering challenges and insights that reflect the intricate interplay of the tattvas. This journey mirrors the spiritual path in Indian philosophy, emphasizing the unity of the individual soul with the universal consciousness.

References:

  • Johari, Harish. Leela: The Game of Self-Knowledge. Destiny Books, 1980.
  • Singh, Jaideva. Pratyabhijnahrdayam: The Secret of Self-Recognition. Motilal Banarsidass, 1963.