In this thought to be pre-eminent, completely like the seed (becoming) the tree,
Or this is likewise the Chief, so Prime Matter is designated.
Commentary
Prime Matter is what produces the world like the seed producing the tree. Prime Matter is a potent biological power, which is one aspect of the cosmic potency of illusive relativity. Gaudapada in his commentary on verse 3 of the Samkhya Karika says, "Prime Matter is Root Nature because it is the origin of the seven transformations and what is transformed." The Vishnu Purana says the same thing, "Prime Matter is the cause of manifestation." The Svetasvatara Upanishad (VI. 10) describes what is produced from Prime Matter according to its own nature.
In this verse the sage describes Prime Matter in terms of cosmic potency, specifically referring to the seed becoming a tree. Prime Matter is also the first cause emanating from illusive relativity.