Nirgun and Sargun: From Abstraction to Expression

The term Nirgun is made up of two components: Nir, meaning “without,” and Guna, meaning “attribute.” Together, Nirgun implies “without any attribute or form.” Similarly, Sargun is derived from Sa, meaning “with,” and Guna. Thus, Sargun signifies “with attributes or form.”

For our minds, existence is perceivable only in some form, whether physical (mass) or non-physical (energy). The mind cannot comprehend existence without any form. A formless existence remains an abstract concept to the intellect, and this abstraction can only be understood when expressed in a form.

For example, consider electricity—an abstract fact that arises from the movement of charged particles. The movement of charged particles can only occur in some medium/form. As a result, electricity is perceivable in a medium with moving charged particles, at this state the medium embodies all the attributes of electricity, and by connecting appliances to the medium, the presence and effects of electricity become tangible and accessible.

Nirgun refers to the abstract truth, which cannot be fully grasped or preserved on its own. It can only be experienced and perceived through a form, Sargun.

It is a common belief that Nirgun and Sargun are separate paths, but in reality, they coexist, much like a live electric wire. Just as electricity flows through the wire, giving it purpose, the wire holds no significance without the electricity. Similarly, Nirgun and Sargun are inseparable aspects of the ultimate truth.

The Nirgun is required as a reminder or pointer to the ultimate truth that is beyond Sargun but at the same time, Sargun is a medium needed to help us experience it. Connection with the medium where it has found its expression is required to experience and access the truth.

Sant Kabir Das has also beautifully stated it as follows:

सरगुन की सेवा करो, निरगुन का करो ज्ञान ।

निरगुन सरगुन के परे, तहीं हमारा ध्यान॥

It says by serving Sargun one can experience the abstract knowledge of creation. In the next post, we will delve deeper into these lines of Sant Kabir.

Conclusion

Nirgun refers to the abstract essence of the ultimate truth, which cannot be fully understood or retained on its own. It can only be experienced and perceived through a form, Sargun. Nirgun and Sargun are inseparable aspects of the same ultimate truth.