Chapter-3, Sutra 06

Patanjali Yogasutra 3.6

तस्य भूमिषु विनियोगः || ३.६ ||

"The application of samyama should be done gradually in stages."

In this Sutra, Patanjali points out that the process of spiritual growth, especially through the practice of higher yogic powers (or Siddhis), happens progressively across different stages or levels (भूमिषु). The term "भूमिषु" refers to stages or planes of existence or Consciousness. "विनियोगः" refers to the application or use of these higher faculties. This implies that the unfolding of spiritual knowledge and the development of extraordinary capacities are not instantaneous but require disciplined effort and systematic application over time. It emphasizes patience and perseverance, suggesting that one needs to master each stage before moving on to the next.

The gradual development in yogic practice signifies the importance of preparing oneself internally at every level before advancing further. There is no skipping of steps in spiritual progress, as each level is foundational for the next. A solid grounding in the earlier stages ensures stability when encountering more advanced stages. This is true in the context of mastering both ethical foundations (yama, niyama) and higher meditative practices 

(dhyana, samadhi).

The essence of this Sutra can be applied to the broader spiritual journey: patience, gradual mastery, and disciplined application are key to unlocking the deeper truths of existence. It can be related to the practice of dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi 

(absorption), where each stage must be thoroughly experienced before proceeding to the next. The yogic path is not a sudden awakening but a journey marked by slow, steady transformation and integration of the mind, body, and spirit.

Context from Other Vedic Texts

Mundaka Upanishad 3.2.10

न तत्र सूर्यः भाति न चन्द्रतारकं नेमा विद्युतो भान्ति कुतोऽयमग्निः | 

तमेव भान्तमनुभाति सर्वं तस्य भासा सर्वमिदं विभाति ||

"The sun does not shine there, nor the moon, nor the stars; neither do these lightnings shine, much less this fire. When He shines, everything shines after Him; by His Light all this is illuminated."

This verse emphasizes the gradual Realization of the Ultimate Truth, where external lights (sun, moon, stars) are only reflections of the Inner Light of the Self. Just as the spiritual progress in Patanjali's Sutra is gradual, so too is the understanding of the True Source of illumination. It is only through progressive Inner Realization that one comes to know the light of the Self, which illuminates all.

Bhagavad Gita 6.25

शनैः शनैरुपरमेद् बुद्ध्या धृतिगृहीतया | आत्मसंस्थं मनः कृत्वा न किञ्चिदपि चिन्तयेत् || 6.25 ||

"Gradually, step by step, with patience and steady conviction, the mind is brought under control, and fixed in the Self, one should think of nothing else."

Here, Krishna advises a gradual and patient approach to spiritual practice, much like Patanjali's instruction in Yogasutra 3.6. The idea of gradual progress and the necessity of mental discipline aligns with the concept of step-by-step advancement in the stages of yogic practice. Both passages stress the importance of perseverance in mastering each level of Consciousness.

Yoga Vashishta 5.51

मनः प्रशममायाति सत्त्वमात्मानमाचरेत् | शनैरुद्धरतेनात्मा विमलतां च गच्छति || 5.51 ||

"The mind attains peace, and the soul practices the Realization of itself. Gradually, the soul is uplifted and attains purity."

In this verse from the Yoga Vashishta, the emphasis is again on gradual self-purification and the Realization of the Self. Just like in Yogasutra 3.6, the progression of spiritual growth is gradual and requires consistent application. The practice of Realizing the Self involves incremental steps, leading to eventual Peace and Purity, mirroring the idea of gradual stages of application in Patanjali's system.

In conclusion, across the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Yoga Vashishta, the theme of gradual progress, whether in attaining knowledge of the Self or mastering yogic practices, is a common thread. This comparison highlights the universal recognition of spiritual evolution as a process that unfolds over time, requiring discipline, patience, and perseverance.