Patanjali Yogasutra 3.26 & 3.27
भुवनज्ञानं सूर्ये संयमात् (3.26)
"By practicing samyama (concentrated meditation) on the sun, the knowledge of the solar system and all realms of existence is obtained."
चन्द्रे ताराव्यूहज्ञानम् (3.27)
"By practicing samyama on the moon, the knowledge of the arrangement and structure of the stars is acquired."
In these two Sutras, Patanjali introduces the profound powers of samyama—a combination of concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana), and absorption (samadhi). When one directs this focused concentration toward the sun (Surya), there is a revelation of the cosmic knowledge associated with it. The sun is not merely a celestial object but represents the center of the physical and metaphysical universe. By meditating on the sun, the yogi gains an intuitive understanding of the solar system, its functioning, and its relationship to all realms of existence, from the gross to the subtle.
The next Sutra continues with a similar idea but focuses on the moon (Chandra). Here, the samyama on the moon leads to the comprehension of the cosmic structure, especially the layout and intricacies of the stars. The moon represents the mind, intuition, and reflection in yogic philosophy. Through deep meditation on the moon, the yogi can intuitively grasp the arrangement of celestial bodies and the forces governing the universe's intricate design. This knowledge can also be interpreted as symbolic—representing the unfolding of the yogi’s understanding of the mind, emotions, and mental clarity.
These Sutras emphasize the interconnectedness between the cosmic world and the individual Consciousness. The sun, moon, and stars are not just external objects but are deeply tied to inner faculties. The power to perceive beyond the ordinary and acquire such vast knowledge through meditation signifies the profound capabilities of a purified and focused mind.
The practice of samyama as described here aligns with the broader theme in Yoga of transcending ordinary perception. It highlights that through self-discipline and intense focus, the yogi can access layers of reality that are not available to ordinary human experience. The knowledge gained through such practices is not intellectual but intuitive and experiential, offering insights into the workings of the universe and one’s place within it.
Contextual Comparison with Vedic Texts
Mundaka Upanishad 2.2.9
सूर्याचन्द्रमसौ धाता यथापूर्वमकल्पयत्।
दिवं च पृथिवीं चान्तरिक्षमथो स्वः॥
"The Creator established the sun and the moon, as well as the heavens, earth, and the interspace, as they were in the beginning."
In this verse, the Mundaka Upanishad speaks about the cosmic creation by the Supreme Being, where the sun and moon hold significant positions. The verse aligns with the idea of the sun and moon as crucial elements of cosmic understanding, similar to how Patanjali refers to them as gateways to deeper knowledge through meditation.
Rigveda 1.50.10
उद्यो जातश्चित्रभानुरर्चिषा विश्वमभासि भुवनानि पश्यन्।
"Rising up, the bright-shining Sun illuminates the entire world with its rays, witnessing all beings."
The Rigveda hymn to the Sun shares the same reverence for the sun as a cosmic witness and source of life and light. It reinforces the idea that meditating on the sun can lead to an expansive understanding of the universe, akin to what Patanjali describes.
Yoga Vashishta 6.2.31
चन्द्रेन्द्रियं तु सत्त्वज्ञं रजसाऽहमिति स्थितम्।
"The moon is connected to the mind (manas) and is regarded as serene and illuminating in nature, while the sense of ego arises through the dominance of rajas (activity or passion)."
In the Yoga Vashishta, the moon is associated with mental clarity and inner reflection, aligning with Patanjali's notion of gaining knowledge of cosmic order through samyama on the moon. This emphasizes the moon’s symbolic importance in gaining insight into both the cosmos and the mind.
Taittiriya Upanishad 2.8.1
भूर्भुवः सुवरित्युर्वरिण्यम् सूर्यायः संश्रवन् द्वन्द्वं सत्यं च।
"The sun is invoked as the source of all existence, illuminating all realms - earth, atmosphere, and heavens."
Here, the Taittiriya Upanishad further emphasizes the sun as the sustainer of all existence, echoing the Yogasutra's depiction of the sun as a source of knowledge of the worlds. Through the practice of samyama, the yogi attains deeper insights into these realms.
These Vedic texts reinforce the symbolic and metaphysical significance of the sun and moon in revealing cosmic knowledge and understanding, parallel to the powers described by Patanjali.
No comments:
Post a Comment