Raja Yoga Sutra by Patanjali With commentary by Sri Swami Sivananda Random Selection
Raja Yoga Sutra Selection # 14 From Discourse I: "Samadhi Pada- On Contemplations" I.9. SHABDA-JNAANAANUPAATII-VASTU-SHUNYO VIKALPAH 'Verbal delusion is caused by the identification with words that have no basis in reality.' Commentary(continued): Overreaction to words and jumping to conclusions are weakness of the mind. The 'vrittis', thought waves, must be restrained not only during meditation but at all times. One must be particularly wary of praise, for this too is verbal delusion, and the ego is ever ready to pounce on any opportunity to see itself as better or different from others. Not everyone is going to feel the same way as one who bestows a compliment. Inevitably the pendulum swings in the other direction, and criticism will be heard sooner or later. But happiness should not rest on praise or abuse, for in all conditions, the only reality of the Self which is beyond qualities and beyond change. The Catholics and Protestants quarrel in Ireland; Jews and Arabs fight in the Middle East. In all parts of the world there are those who see themselves as different from others, rather than as one. Unable to control their though waves, they are swayed by words that instigate action, which invariably leads to reaction. A strong mind will not be affected in this way. The weaker a person is, the less restraint he has over verbal delusion. Examine yourself the next time you are angry or miserable. Reason it out, and note the modifications of the mind. Gaining freedom from verbal delusion is essential for progress in meditation as well as for strengthening the mind.
Subscribe To Raja Yoga Sutras