In the Hindu philosophy of Samkhya, the three gunas (also spelled guNas) are the fundamental qualities that make up the nature of the universe. The three gunas are sattva (purity, balance, and harmony), rajas (activity, passion, and desire), and tamas (inertia, ignorance, and darkness).
Sattva is associated with qualities of balance, harmony, and purity. It is believed to be associated with the light of consciousness and is considered to be a balancing force.
Rajas is associated with qualities of activity, passion, and desire. It is believed to be associated with energy, movement, and change, and is considered to be a driving force behind all action and activity.
Tamas is associated with qualities of inertia, ignorance, and darkness. It is believed to be associated with dullness, heaviness, and ignorance, and is considered to be a destructive force.
According to Samkhya philosophy, the three gunas are present in all things and are in a constant state of interaction and balance. The relative dominance of each guna is believed to determine the nature and characteristics of an individual or thing.