Yoga Sutra 2.13

Sati mule tad vipakah jaty ayur bhogah

Summary

Yoga Sutra 2.13 states: “Sati mule tad vipakah jaty ayur bhogah.” This sutra explains that as long as the root exists, it will bear fruits in the form of birth, lifespan, and experiences.

Analysis

Sati

Translation: As long as.

Meaning: Sati implies the condition or state that continues to exist, indicating continuity or persistence.

Mule

Translation: Root.

Meaning: Mule refers to the root cause or the source from which everything else originates. In this context, it signifies the root of afflictions (kleshas) and karmic actions.

Tad

Translation: That.

Meaning: Tad refers to the specific outcomes or consequences that arise from the root cause.

Vipakah

Translation: Ripening or fruition.

Meaning: Vipakah denotes the process of bearing fruit or reaching maturity. It signifies the manifestation of the results of past actions and karma.

Jaty

Translation: Birth.

Meaning: Jaty refers to the process of birth or rebirth, indicating the cycle of life that continues due to accumulated karma.

Ayur

Translation: Lifespan.

Meaning: Ayur denotes the duration of life or the span of time one lives. It signifies the impact of karma on the length and quality of one’s life.

Bhogah

Translation: Experiences.

Meaning: Bhogah refers to the various experiences, both pleasurable and painful, that one undergoes in life. These experiences are the results of accumulated karma.

Significance of the Sutra

Yoga Sutra 2.13 is significant as it emphasizes the continuity of the cycle of birth, life, and experiences as long as the root cause (kleshas and karma) exists. This sutra highlights the importance of addressing and eliminating the root afflictions to break free from the cycle of karma and attain liberation. By understanding the connection between the root cause and its outcomes, practitioners can work towards purifying their minds and actions to achieve spiritual growth.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation

In traditional yoga teachings, this sutra is seen as a guide for understanding the cyclical nature of life and karma. Practitioners are encouraged to recognize the root causes of their afflictions and work towards overcoming them through dedicated practice, self-discipline, and mindfulness. The emphasis is on breaking the cycle of birth, life, and experiences by addressing the underlying afflictions and karma.

Modern Interpretation

In modern contexts, practitioners often interpret this sutra as a framework for understanding the impact of past actions on present and future experiences. The concept of the root cause can be seen as the underlying psychological and emotional factors that influence one’s life journey. By addressing these factors, individuals can create positive change and achieve a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

Yoga Sutra 2.13 provides a profound insight into the cyclical nature of karma and its influence on human experience. Whether approached through traditional or modern lenses, its teachings offer valuable guidance for understanding and transcending the cycle of karma to achieve a state of inner freedom and harmony.