Patanjali Yogasutra 2.35
(Ahimsa)
अहिंसाप्रतिष्ठायां तत्सन्निधौ वैरत्यागः
"When one is firmly established in non-violence (ahimsa), all hostility ceases in their presence."
In this Sutra, Patanjali emphasizes the profound impact of ahimsa, or non-violence, in the practice of yoga. Ahimsa is not merely the absence of physical violence but encompasses thoughts, words, and deeds. When a yogi is deeply rooted in ahimsa, it influences their entire being and surroundings. The Sutra states that in the presence of such a person, all enmity or hostility naturally dissolves. This implies that the energy of a person who embodies ahimsa is so powerful and serene that it transforms the environment, leading to peace and harmony. This principle highlights the transformative power of inner peace and the radiance of non-violence.
The concept of ahimsa in this Sutra can be understood as an advanced state of spiritual maturity. When an individual truly lives in non-violence, they have transcended the dualities of love and hate, and their presence alone can disarm hostility. This Sutra suggests that ahimsa is not just a personal practice but has a communal effect. It serves as a reminder that the inner transformation of an individual has the potential to influence the collective Consciousness, fostering an atmosphere of peace and goodwill.
This Sutra also reflects the universal principle that violence begets violence, and peace begets peace. By establishing oneself in ahimsa, one becomes a source of positive influence, where even the potential for conflict is neutralized. This establishes the yogi as a beacon of peace in a world often characterized by turmoil and discord. The Ultimate Goal is to reach a State where one's mere presence can inspire others to abandon feelings of hostility and embrace a more harmonious way of living.
Swami Vivekanand said:
"If a man gets the idea of non-injuring others, before him even animals which are by their nature ferocious will become peaceful. The tiger and the lamb will play together before that Yogi and will not hurt each other. When you have come to that state, then alone you will understand that you have become firmly established in non-injuring."
Comparison with Similar Verses from Vedic Texts
Manusmriti 6.75
अहिंसयैव भूतानां कार्यं श्रेयसि सर्वदा।
"By non-violence towards all living beings, one should always strive for the highest good."
This verse from the Manusmriti, a key Dharma Shastra, resonates with the principle of ahimsa as expounded in the Yogasutras. It reinforces the idea that non-violence is a path to achieving the highest spiritual good, not just for oneself but for all beings. The emphasis here is on ahimsa as a perpetual practice, suggesting its role in the continual upliftment of the soul and society.
Mahabharata 115.1
अहिंसा परमो धर्मः।
"Non-violence is the highest duty."
This concise yet profound statement from the Mahabharata places ahimsa at the pinnacle of all duties. It aligns closely with Patanjali's teaching, underscoring that the practice of non-violence is not only a personal discipline but the highest moral and spiritual obligation. It suggests that ahimsa is the foundation upon which all other virtues and practices should be built.
Yoga Vashishta 3.22.9
अहिंसा परमं पुष्पं धर्मवृक्षस्य गीयते।
"Non-violence is praised as the supreme flower of the tree of dharma."
In the Yoga Vashishta, ahimsa is metaphorically described as the most beautiful and supreme aspect of dharma, the ethical and moral code. This verse illustrates the importance of ahimsa in the broader context of dharma, suggesting that it is the most refined and exalted expression of righteous living. This imagery also indicates that while dharma has many facets, non-violence is its crowning glory, much like how a flower is the most cherished part of a tree.
These verses from other Vedic texts, alongside Patanjali’s Sutra, collectively emphasize the centrality of ahimsa in spiritual practice and ethical living. They reflect a consistent theme across the Vedic literature that non-violence is not merely a passive state but an active, transformative force that upholds and enhances the moral and spiritual fabric of society.
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