183. Samādhi and the four flaming seeds.
In exploring the wisdom of the Samādhi Pāda of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali, we come to a nuanced understanding of the four types of samādhi that guide us deeper into meditative absorption. These represent a progression of mental clarity and subtlety, laying the groundwork for the next chapter, the Sādhana Pāda—the chapter on practice.
Patañjali outlines these four types of samādhi, each providing a unique way to still the fluctuations of the mind (citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ):
Savitarka Samādhi (सवितर्क समाधिः)
Nirvitarka Samādhi (निर्वितर्क समाधिः)
Savicāra Samādhi (सविचार समाधिः)
Nirvicāra Samādhi (निर्विचार समाधिः)
These states can be understood using the metaphor of a flame. In Savitarka Samādhi, the mind is absorbed in the gross aspects of the flame, encompassing its name, sound, and meaning. All conceptual frameworks are present, including the sensory experience and mental associations tied to the flame.
In Nirvitarka Samādhi, the focus deepens, and the conceptual labels—like "flame," its descriptive qualities, and associated memories—fade away. What remains is pure concentration on the object itself without distraction or mental commentary.
As we move to Savicāra Samādhi, the meditative focus shifts to the subtler aspects beyond the physical flame. This could involve contemplating the principles underlying the flame, such as its heat, light, or its role as a symbol of transformation.
Finally, Nirvicāra Samādhi brings meditation to the energetic and most subtle levels of the flame, where all thoughts dissolve into peaceful understanding. Here, the meditator experiences the flame as pure essence, without any conceptual overlays, leading to profound clarity and insight.
These types of samādhi are categorized as "with seed" (sabīja samādhi), meaning they still involve an object of meditation. The "seed" refers to the presence of mental impressions or focal points that anchor the meditator's concentration.
Through these stages, the practitioner gradually refines their focus and purifies the mind. The journey through these states of samādhi illuminates the subtle interplay between perception, thought, and essence, offering a path toward deeper awareness and spiritual growth. By learning to quiet the mind and transcend the layers of conceptualization, the Yoga Sūtras guide us toward the ultimate goal of yoga: union with the self and the dissolution of mental disturbances.
