Yoga Sutra 2.9

Sva-rasa-vahi vidushah api tatha rudho abhiniveshah

Summary

Yoga Sutra 2.9 states: “Sva-rasa-vahi vidushah api tatha rudho abhiniveshah.” This sutra describes abhiniveshah (clinging to life or fear of death) as an intrinsic fear that persists even in the wise.

Analysis

Sva-rasa-vahi

Translation: Flowing through its own nature.

Meaning: Sva-rasa-vahi indicates that this fear is inherent and deeply rooted in the individual’s nature. It’s a primal instinct that flows naturally and persistently within.

Vidushah

Translation: Even in the wise.

Meaning: Vidushah signifies that this fear is present even in those who are wise and knowledgeable. It highlights that the fear of death is a universal experience, not confined to the ignorant.

Api

Translation: Also.

Meaning: Api emphasizes that this affliction is common to all beings, regardless of their level of wisdom or enlightenment.

Tatha

Translation: In the same manner.

Meaning: Tatha reinforces the idea that this fear persists uniformly among all individuals, whether they are enlightened or not.

Rudho

Translation: Established.

Meaning: Rudho indicates that this fear is firmly established and deeply ingrained in the psyche. It is a persistent and pervasive affliction.

Abhiniveshah

Translation: Clinging to life or fear of death.

Meaning: Abhiniveshah is the strong instinctual fear of death and the instinctive clinging to life. It represents the deepest and most powerful of the kleshas, driving individuals to hold on to their existence at all costs.

Significance of the Sutra

Yoga Sutra 2.9 is significant as it highlights the deeply ingrained nature of abhiniveshah (clinging to life or fear of death). By recognizing that this fear persists even in the wise, the sutra underscores the universality of this affliction. Understanding its pervasive nature is crucial for practitioners seeking to overcome the instinctual clinging to life and achieve a state of inner freedom and peace.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation

In traditional yoga teachings, this sutra is seen as an acknowledgment of the deeply rooted fear of death that affects all beings, regardless of their spiritual progress. Practitioners are encouraged to cultivate detachment (vairagya) and develop an understanding of the true nature of the self, which is beyond birth and death. This understanding is viewed as essential for progressing on the path to spiritual liberation.

Modern Interpretation

In modern contexts, practitioners often interpret this sutra as a call to examine their relationship with the fear of death and the instinctual clinging to life. Abhiniveshah might be seen as existential anxiety or the deep-seated fear of loss and change. Addressing this fear is viewed as essential for achieving mental health, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.

Yoga Sutra 2.9 provides a profound insight into the nature of the fear of death and its impact on human experience. Whether approached through traditional or modern lenses, its teachings offer valuable guidance for overcoming the instinctual clinging to life and achieving a state of inner freedom and harmony.