Yoga Sutra 1.35

Viṣayavatī Vā Pravṛttirutpannā Manasaḥ Sthitinibandhinī

Summary

Yoga Sutra 1.35, “Viṣayavatī Vā Pravṛttirutpannā Manasaḥ Sthitinibandhinī,” translates to “Or that calm is retained by focusing on subtle sense perceptions.” This Sutra emphasizes the use of sensory focus to achieve mental stability and tranquility.

Analysis of the Sutra

Viṣayavatī (Subtle Sense Perceptions):

“Viṣayavatī” refers to the subtle sense perceptions. This involves focusing on the sensory experiences such as smell, taste, sight, touch, and sound. By concentrating on these subtle perceptions, one can anchor the mind and prevent it from wandering.

Pravṛtti (Activity):

“Pravṛtti” means activity or engagement. In this context, it refers to the mental activity of focusing on sensory perceptions. This deliberate focus helps in stabilizing the mind by providing it with a single point of concentration.

Manasaḥ (Of the Mind):

“Manasaḥ” refers to the mind. The Sutra suggests that by engaging the mind in the activity of focusing on subtle sense perceptions, one can achieve a state of mental calmness and stability.

Sthitinibandhinī (Stability):

“Sthitinibandhinī” means causing stability. The practice of focusing on subtle sense perceptions helps in binding the mind to a state of steadiness and tranquility, preventing it from being disturbed by external distractions.

Significance of the Sutra

Mental Stability and Focus:

This Sutra highlights the importance of sensory focus in achieving mental stability. By concentrating on subtle sense perceptions, practitioners can calm their minds and enhance their ability to focus.

Foundation for Meditation:

Yoga Sutra 1.35 provides a practical method for preparing the mind for deeper meditation. By stabilizing the mind through sensory focus, practitioners can achieve a more profound meditative state.

Path to Inner Peace:

The Sutra offers a pathway to inner peace by teaching practitioners how to use their sensory experiences to anchor their minds. This practice can help in managing stress and maintaining emotional balance.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation:

Traditional commentators emphasize the use of sensory focus as a means to purify the mind and prepare it for higher states of consciousness. They suggest that focusing on subtle sense perceptions can help in removing mental impurities and achieving a tranquil state.

Modern Interpretation:

Modern interpretations often relate this Sutra to mindfulness practices. They highlight the relevance of sensory focus in contemporary life for enhancing awareness, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being.

Yoga Sutra 1.35 provides a practical guide to achieving mental stability and tranquility through sensory focus. By emphasizing the importance of subtle sense perceptions, it offers a pathway to inner peace and mental clarity.