Chapter-1, Sutra 32

Patanjali Yogasutra 1.32

तत्प्रतिषेधार्थमेकतत्त्वाभ्यासः ॥ १.३२॥

"To remedy this (distractions), the practice of focus on one subject should be made."

Patanjali's Yogasutra 1.32 emphasizes the importance of focusing on a single principle or object to overcome distractions and obstacles in the path of yoga. This sutra suggests that by concentrating on one truth or principle, the mind can be steadied and purified, leading to a more profound state of meditation and Self-Realization.

Patanjali is addressing the common challenges faced by practitioners of yoga, such as mental distractions and disturbances. These obstacles can hinder progress and make it difficult to achieve a state of inner peace and concentration. By recommending the practice of focusing on a single principle, Patanjali provides a practical solution to these challenges. This focused practice helps in channeling the mind's energy towards a specific goal, reducing the impact of distractions.

In this next Sutra, we delve into the concept of "ekatattva" or "one principle." This principle can vary depending on the individual's inclination and spiritual path. It could be a mantra, a deity, a philosophical concept, or even the breath. The key is to choose something that resonates deeply with the practitioner and can serve as a stable anchor for the mind. By repeatedly bringing the mind back to this chosen focus, the practitioner cultivates a habit of one pointedness, which gradually strengthens the mind's ability to remain undisturbed by external or internal distractions.

The consistent focus on one principle not only aids in overcoming immediate distractions but also fosters a deeper connection with the chosen object of concentration. Over time, this practice can lead to a state of absorption or "samadhi," where the practitioner experiences a profound sense of unity with the object of focus. This state of samadhi is considered a significant milestone on the path to Self-Realization and spiritual enlightenment. Thus, Patanjali's advice in this sutra is both practical and profound, offering a clear method to navigate the challenges of the yogic journey.

Comparison with Similar Verses from Vedic Texts

Rigveda 10.90.1

सहस्रशीर्षा पुरुषः सहस्राक्षः सहस्रपात्। स भूमिं विश्वतो वृत्वात्यतिष्ठद्दशाङुलम्॥

"The Purusha (Cosmic Being) has a thousand heads, a thousand eyes, and a thousand feet. He pervades the earth on all sides and extends beyond it by ten fingers' breadth."

Mundaka Upanishad 2.2.2

द्वा सुपर्णा सयुजा सखाया समानं वृक्षं परिषस्वजाते। तयोरन्यः पिप्पलं स्वाद्वत्त्यनश्नन्नन्यो अभिचाकशीति॥

"Two birds, inseparable companions, perch on the same tree. One eats the sweet fruit, the other looks on without eating."

Bhagavad Gita 6.19

यथा दीपो निवातस्थो नेङ्गते सोपमा स्मृता। योगिनो यतचित्तस्य युञ्जतो योगमात्मनः॥

"As a lamp in a windless place does not flicker, so is the comparison for a yogi whose mind is controlled and who practices union with the Self."

These verses from the Vedic texts emphasize the importance of focus, unity, and the interconnectedness of all beings, resonating with the essence of Patanjali's advice on concentrating on a single principle to overcome distractions and achieve spiritual growth.