Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
by Makarand Gopal Newalkar | 2017 | 82,851 words | ISBN-13: 9780893890926
Yoga-sutras 4.2 [Evolution], English translation with modern and ancient interpretation. The Patanjali Yogasutras describe an ancient Indian tradition spanning over 5000 years old dealing with Yoga:—Meditating the mind on the Atma leading to the realization of self. This study interprets the Yogasutras in light of both ancient and modern commentaries (e.g., Vyasa and Osho) while supporting both Sankhya and Vedanta philosophies.
Sūtra 4.2 [Evolution]
Sanskrit text, Unicode transliteration and English translation of sūtra 4.2 [evolution]:
जात्यन्तरपरिणामः प्रकृत्यापूरात् ॥ ४.२ ॥
jātyantarapariṇāmaḥ prakṛtyāpūrāt || 4.2 ||
(2) The transformation from one species to another is by overflow of natural tendencies or potentialities.
Ancient and Modern interpretation:
Bhāsvatī says[1], prakṛti means innate force specific to each species which gives distinct characteristics in body and organs.
Prakṛti is of two kinds—
1) It expresses the latent impressions (karmāśaya) of past actions.
2) Its novel and has not been experienced nor has its distinctive nature been ever manifest. E.g. Supernormal powers. So, the eyes are able to see objects beyond physical powers when they get such powers.
Osho interprets the transformation from one class, species or kind, into another, is by overflow of natural tendencies of potentialities.
He says[2] ,
“When you are overflowing with energy, you want to share”.
The Overflowing energy opens up the cakras and flows through sahasrāra.
When a man does not find happiness in mundane life, he starts walking on spiritual path and evolves as superman. The first chapter of Bhagavadgītā, known as arjunaviṣādayoga explains how the extreme dejection of Arjuna directs him on the path of Yoga and to higher states of consciousness.
When one knows for sure that there is absolutely no solace in mundane life, a totally dejected man may turn to God and pray for his grace, so that he may come out of delusion, generally known as life. For a mystic or a devotee of the Lord, the process of evolution is due to His grace! It is God’s grace that brings about what Darwin calls random mutation of species which evolve into better forms of life. A mystic seeks God’s grace so that his consciousness may be transformed from the mundane to supernatural, which elevates him to the level of a god-man.
Footnotes and references:
[1]:
Bhāsvatī, op.cit., p.603
[2]:
Osho, op.cit., p.13