Question

Arrange the following Panch-bhutas (Elements) in sequence of origin, from subtlest to densest, as per Indian Philosophy.
A. Water,
B. Wind,
C. Earth,
D. Space (Ether),
E. Fir
E.
Choose the correct answer:

• A. D - A - C - B - E
• B. D - B - E - A - C
• C. A - B - C - E - D
• D. C - B - D - E - A

Hint:

Remember the mnemonic: Akasha, Vayu, Agni, Apas, Prithvi for arranging Panch-bhutas in ascending order of density.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept
In Indian philosophy, particularly in the Sankhya school of thought, the universe is composed of five elements known as Panch-bhutas: Space (Ether), Wind, Fire, Water, and Earth.

Step 2: Meaning
These elements exist in a hierarchy from subtlest to densest: Space (Akasha) is the most subtle, Earth (Prithvi) the most dense.

Step 3: Analysis
[leftmargin=20pt, itemsep=3pt, topsep=4pt]
• D) Space (Ether Akasha) — the most subtle element, pervades all space.
• B) Wind (Vayu) — denser than Space but less dense than Fire.
• E) Fire (Agni) — denser than Wind, less dense than Water.
• A) Water (Apa) — denser than Fire, less dense than Earth.
• C) Earth (Prithvi) — the most dense of all elements. This sequence matches option B: D - B - E - A - C.

Step 4: Conclusion
The correct order from subtlest to densest is Space, Wind, Fire, Water, and Earth. Final Answer: (B)