Kundalini Yoga Glossary
Buddhi
The part of the mind that discriminates and classifies, active when circumstances are balanced.
Meaning
What Buddhi Means
Buddhi is the component of the mind that discriminates and classifies the impressions received by the lower mind, Manas. Together with Manas and Ahangkar, the ego sense, it forms one of three minds at work in daily life.
In Practice
How It’s Used
Buddhi is active when life circumstances are ruled by Sattva: balanced, a time to learn and grow. This differs from Manas, ruled by Tamas, contractive and oriented inward for protection, and Ahangkar, ruled by Rajas, expansive and outward, a time to take risks.
Recognizing which of the three is at play in a given moment, Manas, Ahangkar, or Buddhi, helps a practitioner understand why a situation calls for protection, risk, or growth, rather than treating every circumstance the same way.
