Ancient and Modern Understanding of the Functions of Kōśas

Abstract

Kōśas are a concept that since upaniṣadic times are described as constituting the human functional structure. Their applicable meaning, however required further elucidation. The study investigates the functional meaning of kōśas based on scriptural references and experiential assessment, taking into consideration also the concept of tattvas, prāṇa, and ahaṁkāra. Special attention is given to ānandamaya kōśa, the function of which is one of the most complex ones. The paper reviews ancient as well as recent scriptural description of kōśas and explains them through a general perceptual model. As a result, the paper presents a revised functional model of the kōśas that are under the governing force of ahaṁkāra, together with indicating a way to manonāśa and jñāna that changes the role of ahaṁkāra in one’s life.

Keywords

• kōśa
• prāṇa
• tattva
• ahaṁkāra
• ātma-vichāra