"Rajas" means "passion" in Sanskrit.
The other two gunas are sattva ("goodness") and
tamas ("darkness"), which are said to be inherent in all things.
Different proportions of these characteristics, according to
this paradigm, account for variances in the features of tangible objects as
well as the spectrum of individual human capabilities and tendencies.
Unlike sattva and tamas, which have only positive and
negative connotations, rajas and its consequences may be favorable or negative
depending on the circumstances.
Rajas is unfavorable when it leads to slavery to the emotions,
which may cause one to lose sight of deliberate and aware thinking.
Alternatively, the energy gained from passion might be
channeled into productive activities.
Although much of the Samkhya metaphysics associated with the
gunas has been disproved, the concept of the gunas and their attributes has
remained a ubiquitous assumption in Indian society.
You may also want to read more about Hinduism here.
Be sure to check out my writings on religion here.
