Patanjali Yogasutra 2.12
क्लेशमूलः कर्माशयो दृष्टादृष्टजन्मवेदनीयः
"The repository of karmas (actions) rooted in afflictions is experienced in visible and invisible births."
In this Sutra, Patanjali introduces the concept of karma and its deep-seated connection to the kleshas (afflictions). The term "क्लेशमूलः" (kleśa-mūlaḥ) indicates that these karmic residues are fundamentally rooted in afflictions such as ignorance, egoism, attachment, aversion, and fear of death. These afflictions distort our perception and actions, creating a cycle of karma that binds the soul. The "कर्माशयो" (karmāśaya) refers to the repository or storehouse of these karmas, implying that actions accumulate and carry forward, influencing future experiences and existences.
Patanjali further elucidates that these karmic residues manifest in both seen (दृष्ट) and unseen (अदृष्ट) births. दृष्टादृष्टजन्मवेदनीयः (dṛṣṭādṛṣṭa-janma-vedanīyaḥ) conveys that the effects of karma are experienced not only in the current life but also in future lives. This aligns with the broader Hindu belief in samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The accumulated karmas shape the circumstances of one's future births, thereby perpetuating the cycle of existence. This Sutra highlights the importance of addressing and overcoming kleshas to mitigate the creation of new karmas and ultimately achieve liberation (moksha).
The practical implication of this Sutra in yoga practice is profound. It underscores the necessity of Self-Awareness and diligent effort to transcend the kleshas. Through practices such as meditation, ethical conduct, and self-discipline, one can diminish the influence of afflictions and reduce the karmic load. This process not only fosters personal growth and spiritual progress but also paves the way for liberation from the cycles of karma and rebirth.
Comparison with Similar Verses from Vedic Texts
Bhagavad Gita 4.17
कर्मणो ह्यपि बोद्धव्यं बोद्धव्यं च विकर्मण: |
अकर्मणश्च बोद्धव्यं गहना कर्मणो गति: || 17||
"You must understand the nature of all three karmas - recommended, wrong, and inaction. The truth about karma is profound and difficult to understand.."
This verse from the Bhagavad Gita underscores the complexity and profound nature of karma, similar to Patanjali's assertion that karmas, rooted in afflictions, influence future existences. The Gita emphasizes that understanding the intricate nature of karma is challenging, reinforcing the need for wisdom and discernment in navigating life's actions and their consequences.
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 4.4.5
यथाकारी यथाचारी तथाभवति । साधुकारी साधुर् भवति, पापकारी पापो भवति ।
"As one acts and behaves, so does he become; the doer of good becomes good, and the doer of evil becomes evil."
This Upanishadic verse highlights the principle that one's actions and behavior determine one's future state, resonating with Patanjali's concept of karma and its influence on future births. It emphasizes the moral and ethical dimensions of actions and their long-term consequences on the individual's spiritual journey.
Yoga Vashishta 3.1.9
व्यवसायात्मिका बुद्धिरेकेह कुरुनन्दन
"O descendant of the Kuru, resolute intellect is one-pointed."
This verse from the Yoga Vashishta stresses the importance of a focused and resolute intellect, which is essential for overcoming the kleshas and reducing karmic residues. It aligns with Patanjali's teaching on the necessity of cultivating mental clarity and discipline to transcend the afflictions that drive the cycle of karma.
These verses collectively illuminate the intricate and multifaceted nature of karma, the influence of afflictions, and the importance of ethical conduct and mental discipline in the pursuit of spiritual Realization.
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