This morning’s lesson: Sutras 3.50 to 3.52 of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
[Tip: keep in mind the context of the specific sutras being studied. Chapters 1 to 3 are about the science of mind control, preparing to meditate, and meditation, respectively.]
Sutras 3.50 – 3.52 are toward the end of chapter 3, which began with a description of the three progressively-subtle states of sub-consciousness experienced by adept meditators, and what’s revealed to them – and then listed some 30 mystical powers attained by advanced yogis (invisibility is my favorite) – and now toward the end of the chapter….[here’s the loose translation we discussed today:]
3.50 – Any or all of these [previously listed] mystical capabilities may manifest as side effects of meditating.
3.51 – Letting go of these super-human powers in the pursuit of consciousness leads to KAIVALYA (aka enlightenment) or liberation from the otherwise endless cycle of birth and death (i.e., eternal life – just not in our present form!)
3.52 – The biggest temptations to let go of in the pursuit of consciousness are “appeals from spirits” that exist in the dimensions BETWEEN our sub-conscious mind and consciousness!
Yikes!!
This is “classical”, “Sankya” or “Raja” yoga – a belief system and discipline that’s survived thousands of years and millions of determined devotees’, spiritual leaders’, and scientists’ rigorous debunking!
It’s crazy powerful and fascinating! It’s influenced virtually every modern religion – it’s the source of the Serenity Prayer!
While the practice lasts a lifetime, you WILL smile more often than you frown!! Patanjali and I promise! The only advice he gives in chapter 1: “never give up; always let go”.
May we all know KAIVALYA in this lifetime (sounds like the Viking’s “Valhalla”)!
Allan
