ISPIRIT ASIA

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.51 concludes the first chapter of the Yoga Sutras with a profound teaching on the highest form of Samādhi—Nirbīja Samādhi, or seedless absorption. The verse, “Tasya Api Nirodhaḥ Sarva Nirodhāt Nirbījaḥ Samādhiḥ,” describes the final state where …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.50 offers a powerful insight into how truth-bearing wisdom transforms the mind. The verse, “Tajjah Saṁskāro’nya Saṁskāra Prati Bandhī,” explains that the subtle impressions (saṁskāras) created by direct intuitive knowledge (Ṛtambharā Prajñā) have the power to override …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.49 distinguishes the nature of Ṛtambharā Prajñā—truth-bearing wisdom—from all other types of knowledge. This verse, “Śruta Anumāna Prajñābhyām Anyaviṣayā Viśeṣārthatvāt,” reveals that true yogic insight is not gained through learning or inference but arises directly from pure, …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.48 reveals a pivotal outcome of deep, thought-free meditation. This verse, “Ṛtambharā Tatra Prajñā,” describes the emergence of truth-bearing wisdom—a type of intuitive knowledge that arises when the mind is entirely still and clear. It marks a …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.47 marks a significant shift in the journey of meditation. This verse, “Nirvicāra Vaiśāradye Adhyātma Prasādaḥ,” reveals that when the practitioner gains proficiency in Nirvicāra Samādhi—a state of non-reflective, thought-free awareness—there arises a profound inner clarity and …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.46 introduces the concept of Sabīja Samādhi, or seeded meditation, in which the mind is deeply absorbed, but an object of meditation still remains. This verse, “Tā Eva Sabījaḥ Samādhiḥ,” teaches that even in deep concentration, subtle …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.45 describes the deepest levels of meditation, where awareness transcends even the subtlest objects. This verse, “Sūkṣma-Viṣayatvaṁ Ca Aliṅga-Paryavasānam,” explains that as meditation progresses, the focus moves from tangible forms to the most refined, formless essence of …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.44 expands on the concept of deep meditative absorption by introducing Savichara and Nirvichara Samapatti, which are subtler states of contemplation. This verse, “Etayaiva Savichara Nirvichara Cha Sukshma-Vishaya Vyakhyatah,” explains how meditation progresses from reasoning and reflection …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.43 describes Nirvitarka Samapatti, a deeper stage of meditation beyond reasoning and conceptualization. This verse, “Smṛti Pariśuddhau Svarūpa Śūnyevārtha Mātra Nirbhāsā Nirvitarka,” explains that when memory is purified, and the mind becomes empty of personal identity, only …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.42 introduces Savitarka Samapatti, the first stage of deep meditative absorption. This verse, “Tatra Shabda Artha Jnana Vikalpaih Samkirna Savitarka Samapattih,” explains how, in this state, the mind still mixes words, meanings, and conceptual thoughts while focusing …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.41 describes a state of pure meditation where the mind becomes crystal-clear and reflects reality without distortion. This verse, “Kṣīṇa-vṛtter abhijātasyeva maṇer grahītṛ-grahaṇa-grāhyeṣu tat-stha-tad-añjanatā samāpattiḥ,” explains that when mental disturbances are removed, the mind mirrors objects, knowledge, …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.40 presents the ultimate level of concentration, where the yogi’s mind can focus on anything, from the smallest atom to the vast universe. This verse, “Paramanu Paramamahattva Anto’sya Vashikarah,” explains how mastery over the mind allows absolute …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.39 offers a flexible approach to meditation by allowing practitioners to focus on any object of their choice for mental stability. This verse, “Yathābhimata Dhyanād Vā,” teaches that meditating on a personally meaningful object or concept can …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.38 introduces a unique method of steadying the mind by contemplating experiences from dreams and deep sleep. This verse, “Svapna Nidra Jnana Alambanam Va,” teaches that reflecting on the insights gained from sleep states can enhance mental …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.37 introduces a method to cultivate mental steadiness by focusing on those who have transcended attachments. This verse, “Vitaragavishayam Va Chittam,” teaches that contemplating enlightened beings—who are free from worldly cravings—helps practitioners stabilize their minds. Understanding this …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.36 introduces a powerful meditative technique for emotional balance and inner light. This verse, “Vishoka Va Jyotishmati,” teaches that by focusing on a luminous inner presence, one can transcend sorrow and attain a deep sense of peace. …

Introduction Yoga Sutra 1.35 introduces sensory awareness as a method to stabilize the mind and deepen concentration. This verse, “Vishayavati Va Pravritti Utpanna Manasah Sthiti-Nibandhani,” explains how focusing on subtle sensory experiences can bring clarity, mental steadiness, and deeper meditation. …