Introduction to Samavaya
Samavaya is a key concept in the Vaisheshika school of Indian philosophy. It refers to a type of relation called “inherence.” In simple words, Samavaya means the permanent connection between two things that cannot exist separately. It is a special bond that is necessary and natural.
Definition of Samavaya
Samavaya is defined as an eternal and inseparable relationship between two entities, where one cannot exist without the other. This relationship is not created or destroyed. It is always present wherever the connected things exist.
Examples of Samavaya
- Quality and Substance: The color of a rose and the rose itself. The color cannot exist separately from the rose. They are connected by Samavaya.
- Whole and Parts: A wheel and its spokes. The spokes cannot exist without being part of the wheel.
- Action and Doer: The act of running and the person running. The action exists only in the doer.
Importance in Vaisheshika
Vaisheshika accepts six categories (Padarthas): substance, quality, action, generality, particularity, and inherence. Among these, Samavaya is important for explaining how qualities, actions, and universals connect with substances. Without Samavaya, we cannot explain how the world is made of connected parts.
Conclusion
Samavaya is the invisible glue that binds things together in Indian philosophy. It shows how objects and their properties are connected in a permanent and logical way. Understanding Samavaya helps us understand the deeper structure of reality as seen by the Vaisheshika thinkers.