Tanmatras

In Samkhya philosophy, one of the six schools of classical Indian philosophy, Tanmatras (Sanskrit: तन्मात्र, tanmātra) represent the five subtle elements or potentials of sense perception. They are considered the subtle, undifferentiated forms of the five gross elements (Mahabhutas) which constitute the physical world. The Tanmatras are produced from Ahamkara (ego or I-maker) in the evolutionary process (Prakriti-Vikriti).

The five Tanmatras are:

• Shabda Tanmatra: Potential of sound, from which Akasha (ether or space) arises.
• Sparsha Tanmatra: Potential of touch, from which Vayu (air) arises.
• Rupa Tanmatra: Potential of sight or form, from which Tejas (fire) arises.
• Rasa Tanmatra: Potential of taste, from which Apas (water) arises.
• Gandha Tanmatra: Potential of smell, from which Prithvi (earth) arises.

The Tanmatras are themselves considered subtle matter (Sukshma Bhuta), and are not directly perceivable by the senses. They act as the link between the cosmic intellect (Buddhi) and the gross elements, providing the sensory qualities that characterize the physical world. The process of evolution in Samkhya involves the differentiation and combination of these subtle potentials to form the observable reality. They are considered "unspecific" (Aviseṣa) evolutes because they do not possess the differentiated characteristics found in the gross elements.

The concept of Tanmatras is crucial for understanding the Samkhya system's account of how consciousness interacts with and manifests in the material realm. They represent a stage in the manifestation of Prakriti (primordial matter) where the potential for sensory experience is generated before solidifying into the gross elements. They highlight the subtle and interconnected nature of reality, where everything ultimately originates from Prakriti’s initial disturbance and subsequent evolution.