Patanjali Yogasutra 1.48 & 1.49
ऋतम्भरा तत्र प्रज्ञा ॥ १.४८॥
"The Knowledge in that State (of samadhi) is filled with Truth."
श्रुतानुमानप्रज्ञाभ्यामन्यविषया विशेषार्थत्वात् ॥ १.४९॥
"The Knowledge that is gained from testimony and inference is about common objects. That from the Samadhi just mentioned is of a much higher order, being able to penetrate where inference and testimony cannot go."
Yogasutra 1.48
In this Sutra, Patanjali introduces the concept of `ṛtambharā prajñā`, which translates to "truth-bearing wisdom." This state of knowledge is achieved through deep meditation and is characterized by an intuitive understanding that transcends ordinary perception and reasoning. It is a form of wisdom that is directly aligned with the Ultimate Truth or `ṛta`, a Vedic concept referring to the cosmic order and Truth.
The significance of `ṛtambharā prajñā` lies in its Purity and infallibility. Unlike knowledge derived from sensory perception or intellectual analysis, which can be flawed or limited, this wisdom is considered absolute and unerring. It is a direct cognition of Reality, free from the distortions of the mind and senses. This Sutra emphasizes the transformative power of deep meditative states in accessing Higher Truths that are otherwise inaccessible.
Furthermore, `ṛtambharā prajñā` is not just an intellectual understanding but an experiential Realization. It involves a profound inner knowing that brings clarity and insight into the nature of existence. This state of wisdom is essential for spiritual growth and enlightenment, as it provides a foundation for living in harmony with the cosmic order.
Yogasutra 1.49
This Sutra contrasts the knowledge gained through `ṛtambharā prajñā` with that obtained from `śruta` (testimony) and `anumāna` (inference). While testimony and inference are valuable sources of knowledge in everyday life, they are limited to the realm of common objects and phenomena. They rely on external sources and logical reasoning, which can only provide a partial and sometimes erroneous understanding of reality.
In contrast, the Knowledge gained through deep meditation and samadhi, as described in the previous Sutra, is of a much higher order. It penetrates beyond the superficial layers of perception and thought, reaching the core essence of Truth. This form of Knowledge is direct and immediate, not mediated by the senses or intellect. It allows the practitioner to perceive the true nature of things, free from the distortions and limitations of ordinary cognition.
The distinction made in this Sutra highlights the importance of direct experiential knowledge in the practice of yoga. While intellectual understanding and learning from others are important, they are not sufficient for achieving true wisdom and enlightenment. The Ultimate Goal of yoga is to transcend these limitations and attain a state of direct, intuitive knowledge that reveals the deeper truths of existence.
Comparison with Vedic Texts
Taittiriya Upanishad 2.1.1
सत्यं ज्ञानमनन्तं ब्रह्म।
"Brahman is Truth, Knowledge, and Infinity."
This verse from the Taittiriya Upanishad emphasizes the Nature of Brahman as the Ultimate Reality, characterized by Truth, Knowledge, and Infinity. It resonates with the concept of `ṛtambharā prajñā` in highlighting the importance of Truth and Knowledge in understanding the Ultimate Reality.
Katha Upanishad 1.2.20
नैषा तर्केण मतिरापनेया प्रोक्तान्येनैव सुज्ञानाय प्रेष्ठ।
"This Wisdom cannot be attained through reasoning; it is best explained by one who Knows."
This verse from the Katha Upanishad underscores the limitations of reasoning and the importance of direct experiential Knowledge, similar to the distinction made in Yogasutra 1.49. It suggests that true wisdom transcends intellectual analysis and is best imparted by those who have directly experienced it.
Mundaka Upanishad 1.1.5
तद्विज्ञानार्थं स गुरुमेवाभिगच्छेत्।
"To know That, one must approach a teacher."
This verse from the Mundaka Upanishad highlights the importance of seeking guidance from a knowledgeable teacher to attain True Wisdom. It aligns with the idea in Yogasutra 1.49 that higher knowledge is best gained through direct experience and guidance rather than through inference and testimony alone.
These comparisons illustrate the consistent theme across various Vedic texts that True Knowledge and Wisdom are attained through direct experience and inner realization, rather than through intellectual reasoning or external sources alone.
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