Chapter-3, Sutra 01

Patanjali Yogasutra 3.1

(Dharana)

देशबन्धश्चित्तस्य धारणा || 3.1 ||

"Concentration (Dharana) is the binding of the mind to a particular space or region."

In this Sutra, Patanjali introduces the first step of the internal limbs of yoga, known as "Dharana." The term "Dharana" refers to concentration or focus, and Patanjali defines it as the act of fixing the mind to a specific point or area (deshabandha). The

key here is that the mind is trained to rest on a single object or location, allowing a steady and uninterrupted flow of attention. This practice of focusing on one point is crucial because it serves as the foundational step for deeper meditative states.

Dharana differs from the ordinary concentration we experience in day-to-day life. Instead of fluctuating attention, it demands a sustained focus, requiring the yogi to resist distractions. By narrowing down the mind's scattered tendencies, the yogi gains control over the vrittis

(fluctuations of Consciousness), eventually preparing the mind for the next stages of meditation (Dhyana) 

and absorption (Samadhi). In essence, Dharana is the training ground for deeper spiritual states and the cultivation of a one-pointed mind.

The practice of Dharana is not just about controlling the mind, but about creating a seamless connection between the object of concentration and the mind. 

When successfully practiced, the mind becomes entirely absorbed in the chosen object, leading to the gradual dissolution of the observer-observed distinction. This absorption paves the way for higher yogic practices like Dhyana and Samadhi, which are part of the eight limbs of yoga as outlined by Patanjali.

Comparative Context from Vedic Texts

Mundaka Upanishad 2.2.9

यदा पश्यः पश्यते रुक्मवर्णं कर्तारमीशं पुरुषं ब्रह्मयोनिम्। तदा विद्वान् पुण्यपापे विधूय निरञ्जनः परमं साम्यमुपैति॥

"When one sees the golden-hued creator, the Purusha, the Source of Brahman, then the Wise One, having shaken off both merit and demerit, becomes stainless and reaches the Supreme State of Equality."

This verse from the Mundaka Upanishad resonates with the idea of Dharana as it speaks to the state where the practitioner becomes fully focused and absorbed in the Supreme Reality (the Purusha 

or Brahman). Just as Dharana 

involves concentrating the mind on a single point, this Upanishadic verse describes the aspirant who, through concentration, perceives the divine and transcends worldly distinctions, attaining purity and unity with the supreme.

Bhagavad Gita 6.13

समं कायशिरोग्रीवं धारयन्नचलं स्थिरः। सम्प्रेक्ष्य नासिकाग्रं स्वं दिशश्चानवलोकयन्॥

"Let him firmly hold his body, head, and neck erect and still, gazing at the tip of his nose without looking in any other direction."

In this verse from the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna instructs Arjuna on the practice of Dharana through the physical aspect of yoga. Here, the focus is on the discipline of fixing attention on the breath and body posture while directing concentration toward the tip of the nose. This practice of unwavering focus is a form of Dharana and represents a preparatory step toward meditation, as echoed in Patanjali's definition of concentrating on a specific region or object.

Laghu Yoga Vashishta 6.1

चित्तं निःशेषतां याति धारयित्वैकत: सदा। ततश्चिन्त्ये विचार: स्यात् तेन सत्यं प्रकाशते॥

"When the mind is completely fixed on one point always, only then can reflection on the object arise, and through that reflection, the Truth is revealed."

In the Yoga Vashishta, the emphasis on Dharana is profound. Here, the verse highlights that when the mind is continually bound to one point, only then does deep contemplation arise, leading to the revelation of Truth. This aligns with Patanjali's teaching on Dharana, where continuous focus paves the way for deeper states of meditation, and ultimately, the Realization of Higher Truths.

In comparison, all these Vedic and yogic teachings emphasize the necessity of sustained, focused attention as the key to spiritual advancement. Whether in the form of Dharana as described by Patanjali, or as the reflective concentration found in the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Yoga Vashishta, the principle remains consistent: concentration of the mind on a singular point is the foundation for attaining deeper insights and Spiritual Realization.