Patanjali Yogasutra 4.22
चितेरप्रतिसंक्रमायास्तदाकारापत्तौ स्वबुद्धिसंवेदनम्।
"When the mind (citta) does not undergo any transformation or modification, the Knowledge of the Self (Purusha) is Realized through the reflection of the Self in the purified intellect (buddhi)."
This Sutra delves into the relationship between the mind (citta), the intellect (buddhi), and the Self (Purusha). It emphasizes that the True Nature of Purusha is reflected in a mind that is free from distractions and modifications. When the intellect becomes a pure and steady mirror, it accurately reflects the Self's Consciousness, enabling Self-Realization. This state signifies a shift from identifying with the transient mind to recognizing the immutable nature of Purusha.
The term "अप्रतिसंक्रमाय" (apratisaṅkramāya) indicates the immovability or unchanging Nature of Purusha. The mind, on the other hand, is dynamic and prone to modifications (vrittis). However, when the mind is steadied and assumes the form of Purusha (तदाकारापत्तिः), it becomes capable of reflecting the light of Self-Awareness. This process symbolizes the culmination of spiritual practice, where the individual transcends identification with mental processes and Realizes the Ever-Pure, Ever-Free Consciousness.
This Sutra also highlights the importance of viveka (discernment) and samadhi (absorption). Without these, the mind remains restless, unable to grasp the subtleties of Purusha. By cultivating practices that lead to mental stillness, the yogi aligns their mind with the Essence of the Self, experiencing the ultimate unity of existence. In essence, this Sutra encapsulates the goal of yoga—Realization (kaivalya) through Self-Knowledge.
Contextual Comparison with Similar Verses
Katha Upanishad 2.2.1
पराञ्चि खानि व्यतृणत् स्वयम्भूः तस्मात् पराङ् पश्यति नान्तरात्मन्।
कश्चिद्धीरः प्रत्यगात्मानमैक्षदावृत्तचक्षुरमृतत्वमिच्छन्।।
"The Self-Existent (Brahman) created the senses outward-facing; hence, they perceive the external world and not the Inner Self. Rare is the wise one who turns the gaze inward, seeking the immortal Self."
This verse complements the Yogasutra by emphasizing the importance of turning inward to Realize the Self. While the senses distract with external objects, True Self-Awareness comes from directing the mind inward, similar to stabilizing the citta for self-reflection in the Yogasutra.
Bhagavad Gita 6.5
उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्।
आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुरात्मैव रिपुरात्मनः।।
"One should elevate oneself through the mind and not degrade oneself. The mind alone is the friend of the Self, and the mind alone can also act as its enemy."
This verse resonates with the idea of purifying the mind (citta) to reflect the Self. It underscores the role of the mind as both an obstacle and an aid, depending on its alignment, echoing Patanjali's teachings on the necessity of controlling mental modifications.
Yoga Vashishta 6.2.14
चित्तस्य शुद्धिमात्रेण मुक्तिर्नान्योपि साधनम्।
शुद्धे चित्ते स्वतः शान्तिस्त्रैलोक्येऽपि न पूज्यते।।
"Realization comes only through the purification of the mind; no other means is necessary. When the mind is pure, peace naturally follows, even in the midst of worldly existence."
This verse aligns directly with the Yogasutra's assertion that a purified intellect leads to Self-Awareness. It emphasizes mental purification as the sole path to liberation, reflecting the foundational concept of yoga as mental discipline and transcendence.
By comparing these verses, it is evident that across various Vedic and Yogic texts, the central idea remains consistent: Self-Realization require mastery over the mind, enabling it to reflect the True Essence of the Self.
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