Chapter-4, Sutra 18

Patanjali Yogasutra 4.18

(Eternal Witness)

सदा ज्ञाताश्चित्तवृत्तयस्तत्प्रभोः पुरुषस्यापरिणामित्वात्।

"The modifications of the mind (chitta-vrittis) are always known to the Pure Consciousness (Purusha) because the Purusha is unchanging and immutable."

The Immutable Observer (Purusha):

This Sutra emphasizes the relationship between the Purusha 

(Pure Consciousness) and the mind's fluctuations (chitta-vrittis). 

The Purusha, being unchanging and eternal, is the ultimate observer of all mental modifications. The constant awareness of these fluctuations suggests that the 

Purusha remains unaffected by the mind's turbulence, serving as the steady Witness. This unchanging nature of Purusha sets it apart from the ever-transforming mind and material existence, highlighting its transcendental essence.

Distinction Between Seer and Seen:

Patanjali underscores a key distinction here: the chitta (mind) and its fluctuations belong to the domain of prakriti (Nature), whereas the 

Purusha transcends Prakriti. The mind may undergo endless transformations based on experiences, emotions, and karmic impressions, but the Purusha observes these without engaging. This Sutra implicitly encourages practitioners to dissociate their sense of Self from the mind, fostering detachment and deeper Self-Awareness, which are essential for Realization (kaivalya).

Path to Realization:

Understanding this Sutra is vital for yogic practice. When one recognizes the immutable observer within, they begin to perceive the mind’s activities as transient phenomena, reducing attachment to mental disturbances. 

This Realization facilitates a state of equanimity, enabling one to remain centered even amidst turmoil. Such insight is crucial for progressing toward the Ultimate Goal of yoga: Realization or kaivalya, where the Purusha realizes its True, independent Nature.

Comparative Context from Other Vedic Texts

Bhagavad Gita (13.23):

उपद्रष्टानुमन्ता च भर्ता भोक्ता महेश्वरः।

परमात्मेति चाप्युक्तो देहेऽस्मिन्पुरुषः परः॥

"The Supreme Soul within this body is also called the Witness, the Permitter, the Supporter, the Enjoyer, the Great Lord, and the Supreme Self."

This verse aligns with the Yogasutra by describing the Purusha as the Eternal Witness and supporter, untouched by the bodily and mental transformations.

Katha Upanishad (2.2.14):

एको वशी सर्वभूतान्तरात्मा

एकं रूपं बहुधा यः करोति।

तमात्मस्थं येऽनुपश्यन्ति धीरा:

तेषां सुखं शाश्वतं नेतरेषाम्॥

"The One Controller, the Inner Self of all beings, who manifests in various forms—those who see that Eternal Self within themselves find Eternal Peace, not others."

This verse complements the Yogasutra by emphasizing the singular, unchanging nature of the Inner Self, echoing the Purusha's role as the constant witness.

Yoga Vashishta (6.1.15):

चित्तमेव हि संसारो यावत् तत्त्वं न ज्ञायते।

तत्त्वज्ञानाच्च यो विद्वान् संसारो न स विद्यते॥

"The mind alone is the cause of worldly bondage, as long as the Truth is not Realized. Once the Truth is known, the wise are no longer bound by the world."

This verse parallels the Sutra's teachings by focusing on the mind's transformations as the root of bondage, urging Realization of the unchanging observer (Purusha) to attain Realization.

By examining these verses, it becomes evident that the concept of an Eternal, Unchanging Witness is a cornerstone of yogic and Vedantic philosophy. This perspective not only deepens our understanding of Patanjali's Sutra but also situates it within the broader spiritual framework of the Vedic tradition.