Patanjali Yogasutra 1.29
ततः प्रत्यक्चेतनाधिगमोऽप्यन्तरायाभावश्च ॥ १.२९॥
"From that (practice of japa and contemplation on Om), there is the attainment of introspection and the removal of obstacles."
The Sutra suggests that through the practice of repeating and contemplating in Om, one gains deeper self-awareness and the ability to introspect. This introspection is not merely a superficial self-examination but a profound Realization of one's Inner Consciousness. It allows the practitioner to connect with their True Self, beyond the distractions and fluctuations of the mind.
The Sutra also highlights the removal of obstacles as a significant benefit of this practice. In the context of yoga, obstacles (antarayas) refer to various mental and physical hindrances that impede spiritual progress. These can include doubt, laziness, illness, and distractions. By focusing the mind through japa and contemplation, these obstacles are gradually diminished, leading to a more focused and serene state of being. This process is essential for achieving higher states of meditation and ultimately, Self-Realization.
Swami Vivekanand says:
"The first manifestation of this repetition and thinking of Om will be that the introspective power will be manifested more and more, and all the mental and physical obstacles will begin to vanish."
In essence, Patanjali Yogasutra 1.29 encapsulates the dual benefits of spiritual practice: the deepening of self-awareness and the elimination of barriers to spiritual growth. It underscores the importance of consistent practice and Devotion in the journey towards enlightenment. By integrating these practices into daily life, one can cultivate a more profound connection with the Inner Self and navigate the challenges of life with greater ease and clarity.
Comparison with Similar Verses from Vedic Texts
Mundaka Upanishad 2.2.4:
सत्येन लभ्यस्तपसा ह्येष आत्मा सम्यग्ज्ञानेन ब्रह्मचर्येण नित्यम्।
"This Self can be attained through truth, austerity, right Knowledge, and constant practice of chastity."
This verse from the Mundaka Upanishad emphasizes the importance of truth, austerity, and disciplined practice in attaining Self-Realization, similar to the emphasis on japa and contemplation in Patanjali Yogasutra 1.29.
Bhagavad Gita 6.35:
असंशयं महाबाहो मनो दुर्निग्रहं चलम्। अभ्यासेन तु कौन्तेय वैराग्येण च गृह्यते॥
"Undoubtedly, O mighty-armed, the mind is difficult to control and restless, but it can be controlled through practice and detachment."
This verse from the Bhagavad Gita highlights the importance of consistent practice (abhyasa) and detachment (vairagya) in controlling the mind, resonating with the themes of overcoming obstacles through disciplined practice in the Yogasutra.
Yoga Vashishta 6.1.32:
चित्तस्य हि प्रसादेन हन्ति कर्माशयं शुभम्।
"By the Grace of the mind, one destroys the storehouse of karma."
This verse from the Yoga Vashishta speaks to the transformative power of a serene and focused mind, akin to the introspection and removal of obstacles mentioned in Patanjali Yogasutra 1.29.
These verses collectively underscore the universal theme in Vedic literature of achieving Self-Realization and overcoming obstacles through disciplined practice, introspection, and mental focus.
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