Chapter-2, Sutra 10

Patanjali Yogasutra 2.10 

ते प्रतिप्रसवहेयाः सूक्ष्माः ॥ २.१० ॥

"The subtle afflictions (kleśas) are to be abandoned by resolving them back into their origin."

Patanjali's Yogasutra 2.10 addresses the concept of subtle afflictions or kleśas, which are deep-seated mental impuriti ines that hinder spiritual progress. These afflictions are subtle because they are not immediately apparent and often lie dormant within the subconscious mind. Patanjali suggests that these subtle afflictions can be eradicated by tracing them back to their origin and resolving them at their root. This process is known as "pratiprasava," which means "reabsorption" or "dissolution."

The idea of pratiprasava involves a deep introspective practice where one identifies the underlying causes of these afflictions. By understanding their origin, one can effectively neutralize their impact. This Sutra emphasizes the importance of Self-Awareness in the practice of yoga. It suggests that merely addressing the surface-level symptoms of mental disturbances is not enough; one must delve deeper to address the root causes.

In the broader context of yoga philosophy, this Sutra highlights the transformative power of yoga in purifying the mind and achieving spiritual Realization. By resolving the subtle afflictions, a practitioner can attain a state of mental clarity and inner peace, which is essential for progressing on the path of yoga. This Sutra underscores the importance of inner work and spiritual cleansing of the subtle body in the journey towards Self-Realization.

To provide context, here are a few similar verses from other Vedic texts:

Bhagavad Gita 6.5

उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्।

आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुरात्मैव रिपुरात्मनः॥

   

"One must elevate, not degrade, oneself by one's own mind. The mind alone is the friend of the Self, and the mind alone is the enemy of the Self."

This verse from the Bhagavad Gita highlights the importance of mastering the mind. Like Patanjali's emphasis on resolving subtle impressions, Krishna advises Arjuna to take control of the mind to achieve self-elevation.

Mundaka Upanishad 3.2.8

भिद्यते हृदयग्रन्थिश्छिद्यन्ते सर्वसंशयाः।

क्षीयन्ते चास्य कर्माणि तस्मिन् दृष्टे परावरे॥

"When He is seen, the knot of the heart is pierced, all doubts are dispelled, and all his karma is destroyed."

This verse from the Mundaka Upanishad speaks of the Ultimate Realization that dissolves all karmic impressions and doubts. It aligns with Patanjali's concept of resolving subtle impressions to achieve mental clarity and liberation.

Yoga Vashishta 6.1.33

मन एव मनुष्याणां कारणं बन्धमोक्षयोः। बन्धाय विषयासक्तं मुक्त्यै निर्विषयं स्मृतम्॥

"The mind alone is the cause of bondage and liberation for human beings. Attached to sense objects, it leads to bondage; free from sense objects, it leads to liberation."

This verse from the Yoga Vashishta highlights the role of the mind in bondage and Realization, resonating with the idea of resolving mental afflictions to achieve spiritual freedom.

These verses collectively emphasize the importance of inner purification and Self-Awareness in the journey towards spiritual evolution, aligning with the teachings of Patanjali's Yogasutra 2.10.