Sutra 1.33
मैत्रीकरुणामुदितोपेक्षणां सुखदुःखपुण्यापुण्यविषयाणां भावनातश्चित्तप्रसादनम्॥३३॥
maitrIkaruNaamuditopekShaNaam sukhaduHkhapuNyaapuNyaviShayaaNaaM bhaavanaatachittaprasaadanam
Taimni
“The mind becomes clarified by cultivating attitudes of friendliness, compassion, gladness and indifference respectively towards happiness, misery, virtue and
vice.”
In this Sutra Patanjali defines the correct attitude in the various situations that may arise in relationship with others. Uncontrolled reactions can lead to unpleasant and violent emotions. On the other hand, becoming cold-hearted and indifferent to all situations cannot lead to a calm and happy mind. The four principles enumerated in this sutra are derived from the laws of psychology and practical experience in dealing with the problem of adjusting ourselves to our environment. Whereas the sutra seems clear for the first three situations, some doubt may arise as to the adoption of “indifference” toward the wicked. This may seem contrary to the ideal of active help and compassion even toward the wicked as seems to be indicated in some scriptures. What we need to understand is that this sutra does not apply to those who are already self-realized nor to the common man on the street. This is applicable to the yoga aspirant on the path to spirituality. Such a person is not yet qualified to work toward reforming others and is thus best advised to remain un-engaged. The result of following the rule given in this Sutra is to bring about clarification of the mind and to remove one of the causes of mental disturbance for the aspiring yogi.
Recent Comments