MPYE-016: Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo (Strict Word-Limit Version)
Q1. Discuss in detail the concept of Supermind in Sri Aurobindo’s philosophy.
The Supermind is a central metaphysical concept in Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Philosophy. It
represents the highest plane of consciousness that mediates between the Absolute
(Sachchidananda) and the manifest world.
Nature of Supermind:
1. Truth-Consciousness: It knows by identity, not by division.
2. Creative Power: It transforms the unmanifest into the manifest.
3. Unity-in-Multiplicity: It harmonizes opposites.
For Sri Aurobindo, ordinary mind is fragmented and dualistic. Supermind, by contrast, sees truth
integrally and expresses it dynamically. It is the source of all creation and evolution.
Spiritual Significance: The goal of evolution is the ascent from ignorance to Supermind. Its
realization would lead to a divine life on Earth—marked by truth, peace, and unity.
Supermind is both ontological and practical. It underpins the spiritual transformation of the
individual and society.
(Word count: 170)
Q2. Explain Aurobindo’s views on the Evolution of Consciousness.
Sri Aurobindo’s evolutionary theory integrates biology, psychology, and spirituality. He sees
evolution not as random but as a divine unfolding.
Stages:
1. Matter to Life: Emergence of vital force.
2. Life to Mind: Emergence of reflective consciousness.
3. Mind to Supermind: Future evolution to divine consciousness.
This evolution is guided by an inner urge—involution precedes evolution. The divine is hidden
in matter and gradually reveals itself through stages.
Human Role: Humans are transitional beings. Through yoga and inner discipline, they can
accelerate evolution toward the supramental state.
Aurobindo redefines evolution as the manifestation of spirit in nature, culminating in spiritual
transformation.
(Word count: 143)
Q3a. Explain briefly the idea of Integral Yoga.
Integral Yoga is Sri Aurobindo’s method for complete transformation of the human being.
It integrates all paths—karma (action), jnana (knowledge), and bhakti (devotion). Unlike
traditional moksha, its aim is not escape from life but divine life on Earth.
It involves psychic, mental, vital, and physical purification, leading to descent of Supermind.
(Word count: 55)
Q3b. Explain briefly the concept of Psychic Being.
The psychic being is the evolving soul within—the divine element in each person. It is distinct
from mind, life, and body.
When awakened, it guides the person toward truth and transformation.
It is the key to spiritual realization in Aurobindo’s yoga.
(Word count: 47)
Q4a. Write a short note on the concept of Consciousness in Sri Aurobindo.
For Aurobindo, consciousness is not a byproduct of matter—it is the fundamental reality.
Consciousness exists at all levels: physical, vital, mental, and supramental. Evolution is a
progressive manifestation of higher consciousness.
(Word count: 43)
Q4b. Explain the relation between Matter and Spirit.
Aurobindo sees no dualism between matter and spirit. Matter is spirit involved and concealed;
spirit is matter evolved.
They are two poles of one reality—Sachchidananda. Transformation involves spiritualizing
matter.
(Word count: 39)
Q4e. Explain briefly the concept of Triple Transformation.
Triple transformation involves:
1. Psychic Transformation – awakening the soul.
2. Spiritual Transformation – ascent to higher consciousness.
3. Supramental Transformation – descent of Supermind into life.
This leads to total divine embodiment.
(Word count: 40)
Q4f. What is Divine Life according to Sri Aurobindo?
Divine Life is the goal of evolution—a life governed by Supermind.
It transcends ego, ignorance, and suffering. It harmonizes matter and spirit, manifesting unity,
joy, and truth in worldly existence.
(Word count: 36)
Q5a. Arya
Arya was the journal where Aurobindo serialized his major works like The Life Divine and
Synthesis of Yoga. It was key in expressing his philosophical vision.
(Word count: 29)
Q5b. Overmind
Overmind is the plane above mind but below Supermind. It permits cosmic creation but still
involves division and multiplicity.
It precedes the integral unity of Supermind.
(Word count: 30)
Q5c. The Mother
The Mother (Mirra Alfassa) was Aurobindo’s collaborator. She embodied his teachings and
helped guide the community at Auroville and the Ashram.
She played a central role in the practice of Integral Yoga.
(Word count: 35)
Q5d. Psychic Transformation
This is the first step in Integral Yoga. The psychic being comes forward, guiding the mind, life,
and body.
It lays the foundation for deeper transformation.
(Word count: 29)
Q5h. Divine Manifestation
Divine manifestation is the process through which the Supreme expresses itself in the universe.
It occurs through stages—from matter to Supermind—and culminates in divine life.
(Word count: 28)
End of MPYE-016 Assignment
