KAPILA (KAPILADA) The great Yogis like Kapila etc. sing the Praises of God like (Guru Nanak) (Swayye Mahle Pahle Ke, p. 1389) Kapila, the celebrated sage, was the founder of Sankhya philosophy. He is sometimes identified withVishnu. He lived in the nether-regions (Patala) and is sakf to have destroyed sixty thousand sons of king Sagara. See : Ganga and Bhagiratha
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
Kapila is a revered sage in Hindu mythology, known as the founder of the Samkhya philosophy, one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy. His teachings emphasize the dualistic nature of existence, distinguishing between Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter). Kapila’s contributions have profoundly influenced Indian philosophical traditions, including Yoga and Vedanta.
Key Aspects of Kapila:
Birth and Lineage:
- Kapila is traditionally regarded as the son of Sage Kardama and Devahuti, who were blessed by Lord Vishnu. His birth is considered divine, and he is sometimes described as an incarnation of Vishnu himself.
Samkhya Philosophy:
- Kapila’s Samkhya philosophy is a dualistic system that explains the universe as a combination of two eternal realities:
- Purusha: The unchanging, eternal consciousness.
- Prakriti: The dynamic, ever-changing material world.
- The philosophy outlines the interplay of the three gunas (qualities)—Sattva (purity), Rajas (activity), and Tamas (inertia)—which shape the material world.
Role in Scriptures:
- Kapila is mentioned in texts like the Bhagavata Purana, where he teaches his mother, Devahuti, about self-realization and liberation (moksha).
- His teachings emphasize the importance of knowledge and self-awareness in transcending suffering and achieving liberation.
Symbolism and Legacy:
- Kapila represents wisdom, detachment, and the pursuit of truth. His philosophy provides a framework for understanding the nature of existence and the path to spiritual liberation.
- His influence extends beyond Hinduism, impacting Buddhist and Jain thought as well.
Kapila’s teachings continue to inspire seekers of knowledge and spirituality.
