Chapter-2, Sutra 45

Patanjali Yogasutra 2.45

(Importance of Devotion)

समाधिसिद्धिरीश्वरप्रणिधानात्

"Perfection in Samadhi is attained through Devotion to Ishvara."

In this Sutra, Patanjali emphasizes the importance of Ishvara Pranidhana (devotion to a higher power, Ishvara) in achieving Samadhi, the state of deep, meditative absorption. The term "Samadhi Siddhi" refers to the accomplishment or perfection in the state of Samadhi, which is the ultimate goal in the practice of Yoga. Samadhi is the eighth and final limb of the Ashtanga Yoga system of Patanjali, where the practitioner experiences Oneness with the object of meditation, leading to the dissolution of the ego and the Realization of the True Self. 

According to this Sutra, surrendering to Ishvara, who is considered a Special Purusha (Pure Consciousness, untouched by the afflictions of the material world), facilitates this process, as it helps transcend the distractions of the mind and the limitations of the individual self.

The concept of Ishvara Pranidhana reflects the idea that while disciplined effort is necessary in the practice of yoga, surrender to a higher power is equally important. This surrender does not imply passivity but rather a conscious and active Devotion, where the practitioner aligns their will with the Divine will. This alignment brings Grace, which accelerates the attainment of Samadhi. Patanjali suggests that when one fully surrenders to Ishvara, the obstacles on the path of yoga are minimized, and the practitioner is guided towards the Ultimate Goal of spiritual liberation.

Moreover, this Sutra highlights the dual approach of effort and surrender in the yogic path. While the earlier limbs of yoga (Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, and Dhyana) involve self-discipline and personal effort, Ishvara Pranidhana represents the surrendering aspect, where the practitioner recognizes their limitations and seeks the support of a higher power. This balance between effort and surrender is essential in achieving Samadhi, as it fosters both humility and determination on the spiritual journey.

Swami Vivekanand said:

"By sacrificing all to Isvara comes Samadhi."

Contextual Comparison with Vedic Texts

Bhagavad Gita 9.22

   

अनन्याश्चिन्तयन्तो मां ये जनाः पर्युपासते |

तेषां नित्याभियुक्तानां योगक्षेमं वहाम्यहम् ||

"To those who are constantly devoted and who worship Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me."

In this verse, Krishna assures that those who surrender to Him with unwavering Devotion will have their needs taken care of by the Divine. The concept of surrender in the Bhagavad Gita aligns closely with Patanjali's notion of Ishvara Pranidhana, where surrendering to a higher power ensures divine assistance on the spiritual path.

Shvetashvatara Upanishad 6.23

यस्य देवे परा भक्तिः यथा देवे तथा गुरौ |

तस्यैते कथिता ह्यर्थाः प्रकाशन्ते महात्मनः ||

"To one who has Supreme Devotion to God and as much Devotion to his Guru, the meaning of the scriptures becomes clear."

This verse from the Shvetashvatara Upanishad emphasizes the importance of Devotion (bhakti) to both the Divine and the Guru. Similar to Patanjali’s Sutra, it suggests that true understanding and Realization arise from deep Devotion and surrender, thus highlighting the transformative power of Ishvara Pranidhana.

Yoga Vashishta 6.1.23

प्रपत्तिर्वा भवेत्सिद्धिर्नेतरत्र तपोबलात् |

तस्मात्सर्वप्रयत्नेन सदा शरणमाश्रयेत् ||

"Success is attained by surrender alone, not by the power of austerities. Therefore, one should always take refuge with the utmost effort."

This verse from the Yoga Vashishta underscores that surrender, rather than mere austerities, leads to spiritual success. The verse resonates with Patanjali's teaching that perfection in Samadhi can be achieved through the practice of Ishvara Pranidhana, reinforcing the idea that surrendering to a higher power is key to attaining the Highest States of Consciousness.

These verses collectively highlight the centrality of Devotion and surrender in the pursuit of Spiritual Goals across various Vedic and yogic texts, demonstrating a common thread of thought in the Indian spiritual tradition.