Yoga Sutra 1.11: Anubhuta Vishaya Asampramoshah Smritih
Introduction
Yoga Sutra 1.11 introduces the concept of Smriti, or memory, as one of the five mental modifications (vrittis) that influence the mind. This verse, “Anubhuta Vishaya Asampramoshah Smritih”, explains that memory is the retention of past experiences without distortion. Understanding this sutra helps practitioners cultivate a clear and unbiased recollection of past events, leading to greater self-awareness and emotional balance.
The Meaning of Yoga Sutra 1.11
The Sanskrit phrase “Anubhuta Vishaya Asampramoshah Smritih” can be broken down as follows:
- Anubhuta (अनुभूत) – “Experienced or perceived”
- Vishaya (विषय) – “Objects or subjects of experience”
- Asampramoshah (असंप्रमोषः) – “Non-forgetting or retention”
- Smritih (स्मृतिः) – “Memory or recollection”
A widely accepted translation is: “Memory is the retention of experienced objects without distortion.”
This sutra highlights how memory plays a role in shaping our perception, emotions, and reactions. When memory is clear and unclouded by personal biases or emotions, it becomes a tool for wisdom rather than suffering.
Examples to Understand the Meaning of This Sutra
To better grasp Yoga Sutra 1.11, consider these relatable examples:
Example 1: Learning from Past Mistakes
A child touches a hot stove and burns their hand. Later, they remember the pain and avoid touching the stove again. This is an example of Smriti as a beneficial recollection, helping to prevent harm.
Example 2: Distorted Memories in Arguments
During a disagreement, one person remembers past events in a way that supports their emotions, while the other person recalls them differently. Their memories are influenced by personal bias rather than objective facts. This is an example of Smriti being distorted by emotions.
Example 3: Nostalgia and Selective Memory
A person reminisces about their childhood as a perfect, joyful time while forgetting any struggles they faced. This shows how memory can be selective, emphasizing certain aspects while ignoring others.
Why This Sutra Matters
Yoga Sutra 1.11 is important because it teaches that memory is not always reliable. While memory helps us learn and grow, it can also be influenced by emotions, attachments, and biases. Yoga encourages practitioners to observe memories objectively, reducing the influence of emotional distortions.
Key Takeaways:
- Memory (Smriti) is the retention of past experiences without distortion.
- Memories can be beneficial or harmful, depending on how they are recalled.
- Yoga helps cultivate clear and unbiased recollection, reducing unnecessary emotional suffering.
How to Apply Sutra 1.11 in Daily Life
To develop clear memory and emotional balance, practitioners can adopt the following habits:
1. Observe Memories Without Attachment
- Notice how emotions influence your recollection of past events.
- Question whether your memory is objective or shaped by personal perspective.
- Let go of past grievances that create unnecessary suffering.
2. Use Reflection to Strengthen Positive Learning
- Keep a journal to record insights from past experiences.
- Recognize patterns in your behavior and make conscious changes.
- Focus on what you learned from challenges rather than dwelling on negativity.
3. Practice Mindfulness to Stay Present
- Avoid excessive attachment to past events that no longer serve you.
- Cultivate present-moment awareness through meditation.
- Recognize that each new moment offers an opportunity for growth beyond past experiences.
By practicing these principles, we can use memory as a tool for wisdom and clarity rather than a source of pain or illusion.
Conclusion
Yoga Sutra 1.11 explains that memory (Smriti) is the retention of past experiences without distortion. By observing memories objectively, we can reduce emotional suffering, make better decisions, and cultivate greater self-awareness.
Embracing “Anubhuta Vishaya Asampramoshah Smritih” as a guiding principle allows us to develop clarity, learn from the past, and move forward with wisdom and balance.
