Yoga Sutra 2.35:

Ahimsa Pratishthayam Tat Vaira Tyagah

Summary

Yoga Sutra 2.35 states: “Ahimsa pratishthayam tat vaira tyagah.” This sutra explains that when a yogi is firmly established in non-violence (ahimsa), hostility (vaira) ceases in their presence.

Analysis

Ahimsa

• Translation: Non-violence.
• Meaning: Ahimsa is the principle of non-violence and non-harming towards all living beings. It encompasses thoughts, words, and actions, encouraging a peaceful and compassionate attitude.

Pratishthayam

• Translation: Firmly established.
• Meaning: Pratishthayam means being firmly grounded or established in a particular practice or principle. In this context, it refers to being deeply rooted in the practice of ahimsa.

Tat

• Translation: That.
• Meaning: Tat refers to the result or consequence of being firmly established in ahimsa.

Vaira

• Translation: Hostility.
• Meaning: Vaira signifies enmity, hostility, or harmful intent. It represents negative feelings and actions directed towards others.

Tyagah

• Translation: Cessation or abandonment.
• Meaning: Tyagah means the cessation, abandonment, or giving up of something. In this sutra, it refers to the cessation of hostility.

Significance of the Sutra

Yoga Sutra 2.35 highlights the transformative power of ahimsa (non-violence). When a person is truly and firmly established in the practice of non-violence, it creates an environment where hostility and enmity naturally dissolve. The presence of such an individual promotes peace and harmony, influencing others to adopt similar attitudes.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation

In traditional yoga teachings, this sutra is seen as a profound statement on the power of living a life of non-violence. It emphasizes that true ahimsa goes beyond merely refraining from physical harm; it involves cultivating an inner state of peace and compassion that radiates outward and positively impacts the environment and people around the practitioner.

Modern Interpretation

In modern contexts, this sutra is often interpreted as a call to embrace non-violence in all aspects of life. Practitioners are encouraged to foster peaceful relationships, resolve conflicts amicably, and approach life with a compassionate and empathetic mindset. By doing so, they contribute to a more harmonious and less hostile world.

Yoga Sutra 2.35 provides valuable insight into the impact of non-violence. Whether approached through traditional or modern lenses, its teachings underscore the importance of cultivating ahimsa to create a peaceful and harmonious environment, both internally and externally.