Samavaya
Samavaya is a foundational concept in the Vaisheshika school of Indian philosophy, which is one of the classical systems of Hindu metaphysics. Samavaya refers to the inseparable relation or inherence between two entities that are so connected that they cannot exist independently of each other once united.
For instance, the relationship between a substance and its qualities (e.g., a red rose and its redness), or a whole and its parts (e.g., a wheel and its spokes), is considered samavaya. These entities do not merely coexist but are ontologically dependent in such a way that they cannot be separated without one ceasing to exist.
Samavaya is considered one of the six categories of relationships by the Vaisheshikas and is unique because it does not apply to objects joined by external contact. Instead, it captures a deeper metaphysical bond—more intrinsic than physical contact.
The concept is essential in explaining complex metaphysical relationships, such as those between atoms and molecules, word and meaning, or soul and body. It allows for a robust framework to understand unity in diversity and substance-attribute relations in Indian thought.