Yoga Sutra 1.51

tasyāpi nirodhe sarva-nirodhān nirbījaḥ samādhiḥ

Summary

Yoga Sutra 1.51, “tasyāpi nirodhe sarva-nirodhān nirbījaḥ samādhiḥ,” translates to “Upon the cessation of even these impressions, seedless samadhi is attained.” This Sutra describes the ultimate state of meditation where all mental impressions are dissolved, leading to a state of pure consciousness.

Analysis of the Sutra

tasyāpi (Even These):

“Tasyāpi” refers to the impressions or samskaras that are produced by the highest wisdom or intuitive insight. It indicates that even these subtle impressions must be transcended.

nirodhe (Cessation):

“Nirodhe” means cessation or suppression. In this context, it signifies the complete cessation of all mental modifications and impressions.

sarva-nirodhān (All Cessation):

“Sarva-nirodhān” emphasizes the total cessation of all mental activities and impressions, not just the grosser ones but even the subtlest.

nirbījaḥ (Seedless):

“Nirbījaḥ” means seedless. It refers to a state of meditation where there are no seeds of future thoughts or impressions, indicating a state of pure consciousness.

samādhiḥ (Samadhi):

“Samādhiḥ” is the state of deep, meditative absorption. In this context, it refers to the highest form of samadhi, where the mind is completely free from all impressions and disturbances.

Significance of the Sutra

Ultimate State of Meditation:

This Sutra describes the ultimate goal of meditation in the Yoga Sutras, which is the attainment of nirbīja samadhi. This state is characterized by the complete cessation of all mental modifications, leading to pure consciousness.

Liberation from All Impressions:

The Sutra highlights the importance of transcending even the subtlest impressions to achieve true liberation. It suggests that true freedom and enlightenment come from the complete dissolution of all mental activities.

Path to Pure Consciousness:

By describing the state of nirbīja samadhi, the Sutra provides a roadmap for practitioners to achieve the highest state of meditation. It emphasizes the need for continuous practice and the gradual cessation of all mental impressions.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation:

Traditional commentators often focus on the purity and transcendence described in this Sutra. They interpret it as the final goal of yoga practice, where the practitioner achieves a state of pure consciousness free from all mental disturbances.

Modern Interpretation:

Modern interpretations may emphasize the psychological aspects of this Sutra, viewing it as a state of complete mental clarity and freedom from all subconscious influences. It is seen as the ultimate goal of mindfulness and meditation practices.

Yoga Sutra 1.51 underscores the ultimate goal of yoga practice, which is the attainment of nirbīja samadhi. It emphasizes the importance of transcending all mental impressions to achieve a state of pure consciousness and true liberation.