Patanjali Yogasutra 3.12
ततः पुनः शान्तोदितौ तुल्यप्रत्ययौ चित्तस्यैकाग्रतापरिणामः || 3.12 ||
"Then, again, when the mind holds both the past and future modifications in equilibrium, and the impressions of calmness and activity are equal, the transformation of the mind toward one-pointedness (ekāgratā) occurs."
In this Sutra, Patanjali introduces the concept of "ekāgratā pariṇāma"—the transformation of the mind toward one-pointedness. The term "shānta-udita" refers to two states of mental activity: "shānta" (calm) and "udita" (active or arising). When the mind can hold both these states - past and future, stillness and arising - simultaneously in balance, it leads to a transformation where the mind becomes intensely focused. This transformation, "ekāgratā," is essential for attaining higher states of meditation and concentration. The state of balance between tranquility and activity creates a deeper, sustained focus, moving the mind from distraction to pure attention.
The implication here is that when mental fluctuations cease, and both calm and arising thoughts are treated equally, a refined concentration is achieved. This state is not the cessation of all thoughts, but rather the balancing of various mental modifications so that the mind is no longer pulled by disturbances. This heightened awareness or "one-pointedness" is critical for progressing deeper into meditative states, as it allows the practitioner to focus solely on the object of meditation without being distracted by the mind's natural tendencies to wander.
This verse serves as a guide for yogic practitioners to cultivate a deeper level of mental discipline. By balancing the mind between periods of calm and activity, they can move from a scattered mind to a concentrated one. This state of transformation aids in developing the capacity to maintain focus over long periods, which is necessary for the pursuit of self-realization or enlightenment.
Swami Vivekanand said:
"How are we to know that the mind has become concentrated? Because time will vanish. The more time vanishes the more concentrated we are. In common life we see that when were are interested in a book we do not note the time at all, and when we leave the book we are often surprised to find how many hours have passed. All time will have the tendency to come and stand in the one present. So the definition is given, when the past and present come and stand in one, the more concentrated the mind."
Comparative Verses from Other Vedic Texts:
Bhagavad Gita 6.19
यथा दीपो निवातस्थो नेङ्गते सोपमा स्मृता। योगिनो यतचित्तस्य युञ्जतो योगमात्मनः॥
"As a lamp in a windless place does not flicker, so is the disciplined mind of a yogi practicing meditation on the Self."
This verse from the Bhagavad Gita likens the mind of a disciplined yogi to a steady flame in a windless place. It parallels Patanjali’s idea of ekāgratā, where the mind remains unwavering. The calmness and focused state described in both verses underscore the idea of stillness amidst potential disturbances, leading to a state of single-pointed concentration.
Yoga Vashishta 3.119.6
मनो ही द्विविधं प्रोक्तं शुद्धं चाशुद्धमेव च। अशुद्धं कामसंकल्पं शुद्धं कामविवर्जितम्॥
"The mind is said to be of two types: impure and pure. The impure mind is full of desires and thoughts, while the pure mind is free from desires."
The Yoga Vashishta also emphasizes the transformation of the mind. The distinction between the pure and impure mind in this verse reflects the need to balance mental tendencies (like shānta and
udita in Patanjali’s verse). When the mind is purified and free from distractions, it aligns with Patanjali’s idea of ekāgratā, where focus and purity lead to transcendence of mental modifications.
In all these texts, the importance of achieving balance, focus, and purity of mind is a common theme. The comparison highlights that different Vedic traditions underscore the necessity of mental transformation, ultimately leading to spiritual liberation.
