Patanjali Yogasutra 2.33
वितर्कबाधने प्रतिपक्षभावनम्
"When disturbed by negative thoughts, opposite (positive) ones should be cultivated."
In this Sutra, Patanjali presents a practical method to counteract negative mental tendencies, referred to as "vitarka."
Vitarka represents unwholesome or negative thoughts that disturb the mind's tranquility. The concept of "Pratipaksha Bhavana" is introduced here, which translates to the cultivation of opposite thoughts. When negative thoughts arise, instead of allowing them to dominate, one should consciously generate positive or constructive thoughts that counterbalance the negativity.
This approach is a psychological tool that not only halts the momentum of negative thinking but also redirects the mind towards positivity. For instance, if one experiences anger, cultivating thoughts of compassion and forgiveness can neutralize the emotional turmoil. Patanjali's guidance here is rooted in the understanding that the mind's nature is such that it cannot hold two opposing thoughts simultaneously with the same intensity; hence, focusing on the positive will diminish the negative.
Furthermore, this Sutra emphasizes the active role of the practitioner in shaping their mental state. It encourages mindfulness and the conscious choice of thoughts. Instead of being passive recipients of mental fluctuations, practitioners are urged to take charge of their minds, exercising self-discipline and awareness to maintain mental clarity and emotional equilibrium. This practice aligns with the broader goal of yoga, which is to still the fluctuations of the mind (Chitta Vritti Nirodha),
ultimately leading to a state of inner peace and Self-Realization.
Contextual Comparison with Vedic Texts
The concept of counteracting negative thoughts with positive ones finds resonance in several other Vedic texts:
Mundaka Upanishad 3.2.4
स मोदते मोदनीयं हि लब्ध्वा विवृतं सद्म नचिकेतसं मन्ये ।
अपि त्विदं वीतमन्युराद्रिः प्रथमं देवैरमृतत्वमाप ।।
"The one who Realizes this Supreme Knowledge becomes joyful, having attained that which is worthy of joy. I believe that Nachiketa's fire has been kindled, and that you have obtained this secret Knowledge. Even as one is free from anger, so does this knowledge lead to immortality."
This verse highlights the transformation of the mind upon Realizing Higher Knowledge.
Similar to Pratipaksha Bhavana, where negative thoughts are counteracted, here, anger (a negative emotion) is dissolved through the attainment of spiritual wisdom, leading to joy and immortality.
Bhagavad Gita 6.5
उद्धरेदात्मनाऽऽत्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्।
आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुरात्मैव रिपुरात्मनः।।
"One should uplift oneself by one's own mind and not degrade oneself. The mind is the friend of the conditioned soul, and his enemy as well."
This verse from the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes self-responsibility in shaping one’s destiny through the mind. Just like Pratipaksha Bhavana, where one consciously replaces negative thoughts with positive ones, here, the Gita encourages individuals to uplift themselves through disciplined mental effort.
Yoga Vashishta 6.1.31
यो मनः परिगृह्णाति इन्द्रियाणि च सर्वशः।
तस्य ज्ञानस्य नास्त्यन्तो न चास्य विपरीतता।।
"He who controls his mind and senses in every way will find no end to his Wisdom, nor will he suffer from perverse thoughts."
The Yoga Vashishta emphasizes the importance of control over the mind and senses, akin to the practice of Pratipaksha Bhavana in managing one’s thoughts. This control is depicted as a pathway to unending wisdom, free from the influence of negative or perverse thoughts.
These verses from various Vedic texts illustrate the widespread recognition of the mind's power and the importance of consciously managing one’s thoughts. The common thread across these scriptures is the emphasis on mental discipline as a means to spiritual growth and inner peace.
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