.png)
Yoga has essentially become a globally celebrated practice these days. It is mostly regarded as physical postures and breathing exercises. Although these aspects are undoubtedly crucial, they constitute just a fraction of it.
Most people follow the path of yoga to reap various health and mental benefits. Some pursue it to acquire psychic powers. However, what are its true intentions?
At its core, yoga aims to liberate the human spirit from the shackles of illusion and clutches of suffering. Ancient texts like the Gheranda Samhita offer invaluable insights into this time-tested practice.
Essence of Yoga
Gheranda Samhita is written as a discourse between King Chanda Kapali and Gheranda Muni. As the king seeks instructions in yoga, the sage responds by teaching him Hatha Yoga. Before sharing specific techniques, Sage Gheranda presents a foundational verse that encapsulates the core philosophy of yoga practice.
nāstimāyāsamaḥ pāśo nāsti yogātparam balam/ nāsti jñānātparo bandhurnāhamkārātparoripuḥ
1/4/1
Let’s understand the true essence of yoga through this verse of Gheranda Samhita.
This verse presents the reason behind pursuing yoga. It introduces concepts of Maya, Yoga, Jnana, and Ahankara. We will now understand each of these in detail and the underlying message.
Maya: The Illusion of Reality
We perceive the world around us through the filter of our senses. The material world experienced by us is an illusion of reality; Maya. It is a veil that obstructs reality and binds individuals to this world. This is one of the fundamental concepts in yoga. One must go beyond Maya to understand the true nature of reality.
Ego: The Greatest Enemy
The text mentions Ego or Ahankara, as the greatest enemy. Our illusions of reality are fueled by our ego, which binds us to a cycle of desire and dissatisfaction. Everything we encounter in our life is measured by our sense of self. With ego or sense of self, one is separated from the experience. As the experience and experiencer are different, the material world exists. Once the ego vanishes, Maya disappears. Text emphasizes the significance of slaying one’s ego.
Jnana: The wisdom
Jnana is nothing but the inner wisdom that helps in lifting the veil of maya and understanding one's true self. This knowledge frees the individual from suffering and shows the path to eternal bliss. It is easier said than done. It is almost impossible for an ordinary man to overcome one’s self and distinguish the layers of maya created by the sensory perceptions and perceive reality as it is.
Yoga: The Path to Liberation
The above-mentioned verse emphasizes the practice of yoga. Yoga is presented as the antidote to this illusion. It's not merely a set of exercises but a comprehensive approach that incorporates all the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. It is a harmonious and conscious state of living. The basic hatha yogic practices, which are beneficial for health, are stepping stones to a deeper understanding of oneself. The ultimate goal of yoga is Jnana. This is the realization of our true nature, beyond the confines of the ego. When we transcend the illusion, we experience a true sense of freedom and peace.
Hatha, a branch of yoga focused on physical postures and purification techniques, is a significant tool for this change. By working with the body and breath, practitioners can develop greater self-awareness and mental clarity.
In conclusion, the verse explains that the real purpose of life is to go beyond the material life. The physical practice is a means to an end, not the end itself. The true essence of yoga lies in its potential to liberate us from the limitations of our perceived reality.
Comments