The Final Stages of Samadhi
Sutras 49 through 51 of Book One of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali Sutra 49. The knowledge based on inference or testimony is different from direct knowledge obtained in the higher states of consciousness (I-48) because it is confined to a particular object (or aspect). That is, such … Continue reading
The Mystical Outlook of Original Christianity
A Commentary on the Odes of Solomon. The Odes are the earliest known Christian mystical hymns and poetry (discover more). Behold! the Lord is our mirror. Open (your) eyes and see them in Him. And learn the manner of your face, and declare praises to … Continue reading
Dawning of the Spiritual Light
Sutras 47 and 48 of Book One of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali 47. On attaining the utmost purity of the Nirvichara stage (of Samadhi) there is the dawning of the spiritual light [adhyatma prasadah]. In contrast to the samadhi spoken of in the prior … Continue reading
Distinction Without Difference: The Nature of the Atman
Q: What is the difference between atman and jiva? Also do you believe that we are all one soul, or many living entities? The atman and the jiva are the same thing, though since atman is derived from the root at, which means “I breathe,” … Continue reading
Is Meditation Dumbo’s Magic Feather?
Q: Will meditation alone improve ones moral sensibility? Will one naturally move toward the good as one meditates? If meditation alone would improve one’s moral sense or automatically move us toward the good, Patanjali would not have outlined the ten principles of yama and niyama … Continue reading
When the Mind and the Self Are One
Q: What is “chitta”? What is the meaning of “when the mind and Self are one”? A Brief Sanskrit Glossary defines chitta in this way: “The subtle energy that is the substance of the mind, and therefore the mind itself; mind in all its aspects; … Continue reading