According to the Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy, the material body undergoes six transformations, known as ṣaḍbhāvavikāra. This highlights the transient and temporary nature of the physical body, in contrast to the eternal and unchanging soul (atman).
The six changes are:
- Birth (jāyate): The appearance of the body, emerging from the womb.
- Existence (asti): The period of survival and remaining after birth.
- Growth (vardhate): The process of developing and maturing, such as a child growing into an adult.
- Reproduction (vipariṇamate): The ability to create by-products, such as having children, or for plants to produce fruit.
- Decay (apakṣīyate): The gradual dwindling or decline of the body’s strength and vitality, leading to old age.
- Death (vinaśyati): The eventual destruction or annihilation of the physical form.
