127. Omm coming. The proper effect.
Let's dive right into today's content, continuing our exploration of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. We'll focus on Sutras 1:23 to 1:28, where the powerful concept of surrender to Ishwara and the transformative practice of mantra repetition comes into focus. These verses build upon the earlier teachings of abhyasa (practice) and vairagya (non-attachment), offering an alternative route to mastering the mind through devotion and the sacred repetition of a mantra, specifically OM.
Today, we start with Sutra 1:28, which emphasizes the profound impact of Mantra Japa, the repeated chanting of a sacred sound, most often OM. The Sanskrit verse is "Tajjapas tadarthabhavanam" (तज्जपस् तदर्थभावनम्), meaning "Repetition of that (OM) and meditation on its meaning." Patanjali describes this repetition as not just vocal but something to be done with deep intention and mindfulness, a tool to focus the mind and transcend ordinary thought patterns. It is through Japa, or this consistent and dedicated repetition, that we connect more intimately with Ishwara, allowing us to step closer to the ultimate goal of yoga: union and enlightenment.
Swami Satchidananda offers a simple yet profound definition of mantra, calling it "that which stabilizes the mind and produces the proper effect." This definition reminds us that Japa is not just a mechanical exercise. It is a practice meant to center the mind, stabilize its fluctuations, and shift it into a calm, meditative state. The goal of this repetition isn't just to keep the mind busy, but to produce a transformation in our mental landscape, clearing distractions and focusing on the sacred. This focus and determination are key to the transformative power of mantra repetition.
The practice of repeating OM, as outlined by Patanjali, is one of the oldest and most potent forms of Japa. OM represents Ishwara, the unchanging, supreme consciousness, untouched by the limitations of the kleshas (mental afflictions) and karma. Through the regular and mindful chanting of OM, we begin to quiet the noise of the world and our mental chatter, removing obstacles that stand in the way of achieving deep levels of concentration. This state of inner calm and focus prepares us for the highest goal of yoga: the state of Samadhi, or union with the divine.
At its core, Japa serves to slow down the mind and cultivate patience, clarity, and acceptance of the present moment. A beautiful saying from Taoism asks, "Do you have the patience to let the mud settle and the water become clear? Do you have the patience to allow the right action to arise by itself?" This idea mirrors the aim of Mantra Japa—to allow the mind to settle naturally, without force, so that clarity and insight can arise on their own. It's a practice that teaches us to trust the process, surrender our need for control, and wait for stillness and wisdom to emerge in our own time. This patience and acceptance are the gifts of mantra repetition.
This practice of mantra repetition is deeply human. Humming, chanting, or using soothing vocal sounds has been a way to comfort the mind and focus attention since the dawn of time. It's not unlike how we instinctively hum to calm ourselves or a child. Try it for yourself—let the vibrations of your voice soothe your body and mind, allowing you to settle into a deeper state of peace and presence. Through the simple act of mantra Japa, we create space for clarity, peace, and the possibility of something more significant to emerge within us.
