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Saturday, June 29, 2024

Chapter-1, Sutra 28

Patanjali Yogasutra 1.28
(Meditation in Om)

तज्जपस्तदर्थभावनम् ॥ १.२८॥

"The repetition of this (Om) and meditating on its meaning (is the way)."

Patanjali's Yogasutra 1.28 emphasizes the importance of the mantra "Om" in the practice of yoga. The sutra suggests that the repetition (japa) of "Om" and meditating on its meaning can lead to spiritual growth and Self-Realization. This practice is not just about the mechanical repetition of the sound but involves a deep contemplation of its significance.

The mantra "Om" is considered the primordial sound and the essence of the universe. It represents the union of the individual Self with the Universal Consciousness. By chanting "Om" and meditating on its meaning, practitioners can transcend their ordinary Consciousness and connect with a Higher State of Being. This process helps in calming the mind, reducing distractions, and fostering a sense of Inner Peace and clarity.

Moreover, the practice of japa and meditation on "Om" is seen as a way to purify the mind and remove obstacles that hinder spiritual progress. It is believed that the vibrations created by chanting "Om" resonate with the cosmic vibrations, aligning the practitioner's energy with the universal energy. This alignment facilitates a deeper understanding of the Self and the Nature of Reality, ultimately leading to Realization of the Divine.

Comparison with Similar Verses from Vedic Texts

From the Mandukya Upanishad:

ॐ इत्येतदक्षरमिदं सर्वं तस्योपव्याख्यानं भूतं भवद्भविष्यदिति सर्वमोंकार एव।

"Om, the word, is all this. A clear explanation of it is: all that is past, present, and future is verily Om. And whatever else there is, beyond the threefold division of time, that also is Om."

From the Bhagavad Gita (8.13):

ओमित्येकाक्षरं ब्रह्म व्याहरन्मामनुस्मरन् |
य: प्रयाति त्यजन्देहं स याति परमां गतिम् || 13||

"Uttering the one-syllabled Om, the Brahman, and remembering Me, he who departs, leaving the body, attains the Supreme Goal."

From the Taittiriya Upanishad:

ओमिति ब्रह्म। ओमिति सर्वम्।

"Om is Brahman. Om is all this."

These verses from various Vedic texts highlight the significance of "Om" as a fundamental and sacred sound that encapsulates the Essence of the Universe and the Divine. They reinforce the idea presented in Patanjali's Yogasutra 1.28 that the repetition and meditation on "Om" can lead to profound spiritual insights and Ultimate Realization.


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