Purusha and Prakruti (spirit and matter) are the two fundamental aspects that constitute reality according to the Sankhya philosophy of India. Prakruti, Mahat, Ahamkara, Manas, five organs of perception, five of action, five Tanmatras (subtle essences) and five Mahabhutas (gross elements) are the twenty four principles commonly known as Tattvas in the Sankhya evolutionary scheme. The twenty fifth principle is called Purusha, which is the ruling spirit. Purusha is embodied in the psychophysical complex right from the beginning of evolution.

Purusha is pure consciousness that is eternal and unchanging. It is the seer or the soul. Prakruti which is also called Avyakta or unmanifested is the first cause of the universe consisting of physical and psychical factors. The purpose of evolution of Prakruti (Nature) is to afford enjoyment to Purusha. Due to Avidya (absence of true knowledge) and Aviveka (non-discrimination) Purusha wrongly identifies itself with all the manifestations of Prakruti. This delusion leads to its bondage.

Knowing that our own body is Prakruti’s most basic level of manifestation and the Jivatma (individual soul) is only a particle of the Paramatma (universal spirit), one can strive for emancipation of the self from this bondage. The eight-fold path of yoga teaches us how to perform this.

When the journey back to the source is fulfilled the phenomenal nature (Prakruti) withdraws itself back to its noumenal root or the unmanifested Mula Prakruti. The Purusha is then left alone to enjoy Kaivalya which is the ultimate goal of yoga – union with God.