Yoga Sutra 1.20 is a crucial verse in Patanjali's foundational text on yoga. It outlines the essential qualities necessary to attain the higher state of samadhi: complete absorption in the divine or universal consciousness.
Translation
> Faith, energy, memory, samadhi, and wisdom precede the other (higher samadhi).
Breakdown of the Qualities or Keys of Wisdom
1. Shraddha: Faith or belief in the yoga path and the possibility of attaining higher states of consciousness.
2. Virya: Energy, vigour, or perseverance. This involves the consistent effort and commitment required to practice yoga.
3. Smriti: Memory or recollection. The ability to remember past experiences of samadhi and to draw upon those memories for inspiration.
4. Samadhi: A state of deep concentration or absorption. While this is mentioned as a prerequisite for higher samadhi, it also refers to the initial stages of meditation.
5. Prajna: Wisdom or intuitive insight. This is the ability to discern the true nature of reality and understand the universe's underlying principles.
The Path to Higher Samadhi
According to Patanjali, these five qualities are essential for progressing towards the higher state of samadhi.
Faith provides the foundation.
Energy fuels the practice.
Memory supports the journey.
Meditation deepens the understanding.
Wisdom guides the path.
By cultivating these qualities, we can gradually deepen our meditation practice and move closer to yoga's ultimate goal.
This sutra offers valuable insights into the path to spiritual enlightenment. The five qualities outlined provide a framework for understanding the essential elements of yoga practice. By cultivating faith, energy, memory, samadhi, and wisdom, we can journey towards higher states of consciousness and ultimately achieve a complete union with the divine.
Join me from September 2nd to 7th to explore this in class. Book now, as classes are already filling up.
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