Chapter-3, Introduction

Introduction to Patanjali Yogasutra Chapter-3: 

Vibhooti Pada

The third chapter of the Patanjali Yogasutra is known as the Vibhooti Pada (विभूतिपाद), which translates to the "Chapter on Powers" or "Accomplishments." 

This chapter delves into the mystical and supernatural powers (siddhis) that can arise

as a result of intense yogic practices. The word Vibhooti refers to greatness, power, or manifestation, and in the context of this chapter, it highlights the extraordinary capabilities that unfold when the mind is mastered.

However, Patanjali's teachings stress that these powers are merely by-products of spiritual progress and can become distractions if pursued for their own sake. The ultimate goal remains Kaivalya, or Realization, which is discussed in the fourth and final chapter of the Yogasutra.

Key Themes of Vibhooti Pada

The Vibhooti Pada introduces three key practices known as Samyama (संयम) that are essential for attaining mastery over the mind and cultivating these powers. These practices are:

Dharana (Concentration): The practice of focusing the mind on a single object.

Dhyana (Meditation): The uninterrupted flow of concentration on the object.

Samadhi (Absorption): The merging of the meditator and the object of meditation, resulting in a deep state of unity.

When these three—Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi—are practiced together, they are referred to as Samyama. Mastery of Samyama brings about profound insight and control over the mind, body, and the external world.

Sutras from Vibhooti Pada

Here are a few key Sutras from this chapter that illustrate its theme:

Sutra 3.1 - Dharana

"देशबन्धश्चित्तस्य धारणा || 3.1 ||"

"Dharana is the fixing of the mind on a single object."

This Sutra introduces the first step of Samyama, where the mind is concentrated on a specific point or object, marking the beginning of the process of internal focus.

Sutra 3.2 - Dhyana

"तत्र प्रत्ययैकतानता ध्यानम् || 3.2 ||"

"Dhyana is the continuous flow of cognition towards that object."

This Sutra explains Dhyana as the practice of sustained focus on the object of meditation, where the mind maintains an unbroken stream of concentration without distraction.

Sutra 3.3 - Samadhi

"तदेवार्थमात्रनिर्भासं स्वरूपशून्यमिव समाधिः || 3.3 ||"

"Samadhi is the state where only the object shines forth in the mind, and the Self-Awareness of the meditator is lost."

In this Sutra, Patanjali describes 

Samadhi as the culmination of concentration, where the meditator and the object of meditation become one, and all duality between the two dissolves.

Sutra 3.16 - Knowledge of Past and Future

"परिणामत्रयसंयमाततीतानागतज्ञानम् || 3.16 ||"

"By performing Samyama on the three transformations (time, nature, and qualities), knowledge of the past and future is obtained."

This Sutra demonstrates the kind of supernatural Knowledge that can arise from mastering 

Samyama. Through deep concentration on the changes occurring in time, one gains insight into the past and future.

Sutra 3.17 - Understanding the Meaning of Sounds

"शब्दार्थप्रत्ययानामितरेतराध्यासात् सङ्करः तत्प्रविभागसंयमात् सर्वभूतरुतज्ञानम् || 3.17 ||"

"By performing Samyama on the relationship between words, their meaning, and the idea behind them, knowledge of all forms of communication from all beings is gained."

This illustrates how Samyama can reveal extraordinary insights into communication and language, allowing the yogi to understand the sounds and expressions of all beings.

Conclusion

The Vibhooti Pada focuses on the siddhis, or supernatural powers, that can manifest through the mastery of Samyama. These powers, though impressive, are seen as potential obstacles to the Ultimate Goal of Spiritual Realization. Patanjali consistently reminds the practitioner to remain detached from these powers, as they can lead to ego and attachment. The true objective remains Kaivalya, or absolute freedom, which lies beyond the realm of these temporary accomplishments.

This chapter not only provides a roadmap for the inner mastery of Consciousness but also serves as a cautionary guide, urging practitioners to stay focused on their Ultimate Spiritual Goals, rather than getting lost in the allure of power.