Yoga Sutra 2.20

Drashta drishi matrah shuddhah api pratyaya anupashyah

Summary

Yoga Sutra 2.20 states: “Drashta drishi matrah shuddhah api pratyaya anupashyah.” This sutra explains that the seer (drashta) is pure consciousness (shuddhah) and only an observer, yet it sees through the mind’s modifications (pratyaya).

Analysis

Drashta

Translation: The seer.

Meaning: Drashta refers to the true self or pure consciousness, which is the eternal, unchanging observer of all experiences. It represents the witness aspect of an individual.

Drishi

Translation: Seeing.

Meaning: Drishi denotes the act of seeing or observing. It signifies the process of perception through which the seer becomes aware of the external world.

Matrah

Translation: Only.

Meaning: Matrah emphasizes the seer’s role as solely an observer, without involvement or attachment to the objects of perception.

Shuddhah

Translation: Pure.

Meaning: Shuddhah signifies purity and clarity. It describes the true nature of the seer, which is untainted by the fluctuations and modifications of the mind.

Api

Translation: Yet.

Meaning: Api introduces a contrast, indicating that despite the seer’s purity, it still observes through the mind’s modifications.

Pratyaya

Translation: Modifications or contents of the mind.

Meaning: Pratyaya refers to the thoughts, perceptions, and mental activities that arise in the mind. These modifications influence how the seer perceives the world.

Anupashyah

Translation: Observes or sees through.

Meaning: Anupashyah signifies the act of observing or witnessing. It indicates that the seer perceives the external world through the lens of the mind’s modifications.

Significance of the Sutra

Yoga Sutra 2.20 is significant as it highlights the distinction between the seer (pure consciousness) and the mind’s modifications. By understanding that the seer is pure and only an observer, practitioners can develop discernment and detachment from the fluctuations of the mind. This sutra emphasizes the importance of recognizing the true nature of the self and the role of the mind in shaping perceptions and experiences.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation

In traditional yoga teachings, this sutra underscores the need for practitioners to cultivate self-awareness and recognize the distinction between the seer and the mind’s modifications. The emphasis is on understanding that the true self (drashta) is pure consciousness and only an observer, not influenced by the mind’s activities. Practitioners are encouraged to detach from the fluctuations of the mind and realize their true nature as pure consciousness.

Modern Interpretation

In modern contexts, practitioners often interpret this sutra as a call to develop mindfulness and self-awareness in recognizing the true self beyond the mind’s activities. The focus is on understanding that thoughts, perceptions, and emotions are temporary and do not define the true self. By cultivating mindfulness, individuals can achieve a state of inner peace and clarity, free from the influence of the mind’s modifications.

Yoga Sutra 2.20 provides a profound insight into the nature of the self and its relationship with the mind’s modifications. Whether approached through traditional or modern lenses, its teachings offer valuable guidance for understanding the true self as pure consciousness and achieving a state of inner freedom and harmony.