Essay name: Yoga-sutra with Bhashya Vivarana (study)
Author:
Susmi Sabu
Affiliation: University of Kerala / Department of Sanskrit
This essay studies the enduring and relevance of Yoga in India, highlighting its evolution from a comprehensive philosophy to primarily a physical practice. It further underscores the importance of studying Yoga texts to understand its historical trajectory. Special attention is given to the Patanjala Yogasutra Bhashya Vivarana, a significant work attributed to Adi Shankaracharya.
Chapter 4 - Textual Examination of the Text
40 (of 124)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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Practices to attain cittapras膩dana (clarity of mind): There are a number of options of practices that are mentioned in Y.S. to attain stability or clarity of mind. Vivara峁嘺k膩ra also clarifies that, the mention of various methods is because of individual difference.154 In some places, cittapras膩dana is termed as parikarman (steadiness of mind) by Vivara峁嘺k膩ra. The 155 practices which bring about clarity of mind are praised in VBh. as
艣ukla dharma. Vivara峁嘺k膩ra gives explanation to this- as pure
(vi艣uddha dharma) i.e., the dharma which does not harm any living
being. There are a number of practices with the intention to make
mind clear. They are maitri, karuna, mudita and upek峁.
Maitri is the feeling of friendliness. Vivara峁嘺k膩ra
Karu峁嘺 is
further explains, it as rejoicing in happiness on seeing people who
are happy without having any feeling of envy.
compassion towards those who are in pain. Mudita is a kindred
joy towards those who are engaged in meritorious deeds and
upek峁 is indifference towards those who are engaged in evil
deeds. By practising meditation on one principle like friendliness,
compassion, etc., mind becomes clear and there will be no obstacle
to attain sam膩dhi."
156 186
