In fact, the Karika declares the material universe to be the result of the contact of the Soul with Nature, and consists in chains with which Nature binds herself, for the purpose (unconscious) of delivering the Soul.

When by a process of knowledge the Soul looks through these, and perceives the ultimate principle beyond, the material universe ceases, and both Soul and Nature are emancipated.[73] One of the definitions of the Karika will call to mind the fourfold division of the universe by the great thinker of the ninth century, Erigena.

In his work, [Greek: peri phuseos merismou] he asserts that there is, (1.) A Nature which creates and is not created.

(2.) A Nature which is created and creates.

(3.) A Nature which is created and does not create.
(4.) A Nature which neither creates nor is created.