Patanjali Yogasutra 3.28
ध्रुवे तद्गतिज्ञानम्।
"By concentrating on the pole star (Dhruva), one gains knowledge of its movements or the motion of the stars."
In this Sutra, Patanjali refers to a specific form of concentration (dharana) on a celestial body, particularly the pole star, Dhruva. The term "Dhruva" signifies the pole star, which is known for its fixed position in the sky. The idea of "tadgatijnanam" refers to gaining precise knowledge of its motion. Although the pole star appears stationary from Earth, in reality, its motion, along with the motion of other celestial bodies, can be understood through deep meditative focus.
This Sutra is an illustration of the broader concept in yogic practice: focusing the mind intensely on an object leads to greater understanding and mastery of that object. In this case, it emphasizes gaining cosmic knowledge through dharana on the seemingly immovable Dhruva. By observing the fixed star and its relative stillness, yogis can gain insight into celestial movements and cosmic order, representing the eternal and the unchanging amidst the flux of the universe.
On a symbolic level, this practice can also be interpreted as seeking stability in the midst of change. Dhruva, as the fixed point, represents steadfastness in a constantly shifting universe. Yogis who master this concentration can perceive the subtle relationships between objects in the cosmos and the deeper universal principles. The focus on something stable can mirror the spiritual seeker’s search for the unchanging truth amidst the distractions and fluctuations of daily life.
Contextual Comparison from Vedic Texts:
Mundaka Upanishad 2.2.10
सूर्याचन्द्रमसौ धाता यथापूर्वमकल्पयत्।
"The Creator (Dhata) placed the sun and the moon in their orbits as they were before."
This verse from the Mundaka Upanishad describes the placement of the celestial bodies by the Creator,
hinting at the idea of cosmic order and stability, much like Patanjali’s focus on the fixed pole star. Both texts explore the idea of cosmic regularity and the deeper truths that can be revealed by contemplating the natural world.
Rig Veda 10.85.19
ध्रुवं दधार पृथिवीं स देवो ध्रुवं द्यां दधार देव एष एति सूर्यः।
"The god (Dhruva) upholds the earth; the god upholds the heavens. The sun rises steadily by his will."
This verse from the Rig Veda references Dhruva, not as the pole star, but in its literal meaning of ‘steadfastness’. Here, Dhruva is the upholder of the cosmic balance, supporting the earth and heavens. It aligns with the idea of stability, mirroring the fixed nature of Dhruva in Patanjali’s Sutra, and symbolizes the yogic pursuit of unwavering focus amidst change.
Yoga Vashishta 6.1.34
चित्तं ध्रुवमिवाचलम्।
"The mind becomes immovable, like Dhruva"
This verse from the Yoga Vashishta draws a direct parallel between the mind in deep meditation and the pole star. Just as the pole star remains fixed while the universe revolves around it, the mind in deep meditation becomes immovable and still. This comparison further emphasizes the importance of cultivating steadfast focus and stability in the yogic journey, echoing the message of Patanjali's sutra.
These comparisons highlight the shared emphasis on the themes of cosmic order, stability, and insight that arise through focused contemplation, a recurrent theme in various Vedic and yogic texts.
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