Yoga Sutra 1.28

Tat Japah Tadartha Bhavanam

Summary

Yoga Sutra 1.28, “Tat Japah Tadartha Bhavanam,” translates to “Its repetition and contemplation of its meaning.” This Sutra emphasizes the importance of continuously chanting the sacred syllable Om and meditating on its significance.

Analysis of the Sutra

Tat (Its):

“Tat” refers to the sacred syllable Om, which is considered the verbal expression of Ishvara, the Supreme Being.

Japah (Repetition):

“Japah” means the repetition of a mantra. In this context, it signifies the continuous chanting of Om, which helps to focus the mind and deepen one’s spiritual practice.

Tadartha (Its Meaning):

“Tadartha” refers to the meaning or significance of Om. Contemplating its meaning involves understanding Om as the sound symbolizing the ultimate reality or universal consciousness.

Bhavanam (Contemplation):

“Bhavanam” means contemplation or meditation. This involves deeply meditating on the essence of Om, allowing its significance to permeate one’s consciousness.

Significance of the Sutra

Deepening Spiritual Practice:

This Sutra highlights the dual practice of chanting Om and meditating on its meaning. This combination helps practitioners to deepen their spiritual practice, fostering a greater connection with the divine.

Mindfulness and Focus:

Repetition of Om serves as a tool for mindfulness, helping to quiet the mind and bring focus. Contemplating its meaning further enhances this focus, leading to a more profound meditative state.

Path to Samadhi:

By continuously chanting and meditating on Om, practitioners can move closer to achieving Samadhi, the state of ultimate union with the divine. This Sutra thus provides a practical method for advancing on the path of yoga.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation:

Traditional commentators emphasize the sacredness of Om and the importance of its repetition and contemplation. Chanting Om is seen as a devotional practice that purifies the mind and brings the practitioner closer to Ishvara.

Modern Interpretation:

Modern interpretations often focus on the meditative and vibrational aspects of chanting Om. Contemporary practitioners may view this practice as a means to achieve inner peace and mindfulness, integrating it into daily life as a tool for mental clarity and spiritual growth.

Yoga Sutra 1.28 underscores the significance of the sacred syllable Om, advocating for its continuous repetition and deep contemplation as a means to deepen spiritual practice and achieve a state of union with the divine.