Patanjali's Yogasutra | Dr. Kausthub Desikachar | II.17 | 10 Feb 2018

Introduction and Greetings

The video begins with greetings and introductions in a casual conversation.

Greetings and Introductions

• Participants exchange greetings and mention names.

• Casual conversation about jackets and other topics.

Discussion on Yoga Philosophy

The discussion moves towards yoga philosophy, specifically the concept of karma and predetermined outcomes.

Karma and Predetermined Outcomes

• Mention of the philosophy that some karmic outcomes are predetermined.

• Metaphor of planting a seed in a garden to explain predetermined outcomes.

• Inability to change predetermined destiny but having control over expression or manifestation.

Understanding Suffering and Anticipating It

The focus shifts to understanding suffering, anticipating it, and being prepared for it.

Anticipating Suffering

• Explanation of the concept of "Hyrum do come on our Gotham" meaning anticipating suffering.

• Importance of being prepared for unavoidable suffering rather than trying to avoid it completely.

Yoga Philosophy on Predetermined Karma

The discussion continues on the topic of predetermined karma in yoga philosophy.

Predetermined Karma in Yoga Philosophy

• Comparison between predetermined karma in life with planting seeds for specific trees.

• Inability to change the type of tree once the seed has been planted.

• Acknowledgment that one can choose how to express or manifest their predetermined traits or talents.

Inability to Change Predetermined Destiny

The inability to change one's predetermined destiny is discussed further, emphasizing acceptance rather than resistance.

Acceptance of Predetermined Destiny

• Acknowledgment that predetermined destiny cannot be changed.

• Possibility of changing the expression or manifestation of predetermined traits or talents.

Relationship as the Source of Suffering

The discussion shifts to the concept of relationship being the source of suffering.

Relationship as the Cause of Suffering

• Explanation that intense relationships are the primary cause of suffering.

• Various manifestations of relationships, including personal, professional, and environmental.

Relationship as Yoga and Solution to Suffering

The focus is on understanding relationship as both the problem and solution to suffering.

Relationship as Yoga and Solution

• Acknowledgment that relationship is yoga and also the solution to suffering.

• Importance of understanding what relationship means in order to address the problem and find a solution.

Purusha and Prakruti in Yoga Philosophy

The discussion delves into the concepts of Purusha (consciousness) and Prakruti (matter) in yoga philosophy.

Purusha (Consciousness) and Prakruti (Matter)

• Explanation that suffering arises from intense relationship between consciousness (Purusha) and matter (Prakruti).

• Need for further explanation on why this relationship becomes a source of difficulty.

Combination of Materiality and Consciousness

The combination of materiality and consciousness in human existence is explored, contrasting with modern scientific perspectives.

Materiality and Consciousness in Human Existence

• Distinction between modern scientific view focusing on biological matter only, while ancient philosophies recognize consciousness as well.

• Understanding humans as a combination of materiality (biological matter) and consciousness (metaphysical dimension).

Purusha's Need for a Medium

The discussion centers around the concept of Purusha needing a medium to fulfill its Dharma.

Purusha's Need for a Medium

• Explanation that Purusha (consciousness) requires a material medium to fulfill its purpose or destiny.

• Metaphor of using a vehicle for transportation to reach a destination.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the relationship between our predispositions and potentials, as well as the concept of Dharma.

Predispositions and Potentials

• Our individual potentials determine our destiny or Dharma.

• The speaker uses the example of not being able to paint like a talented artist to illustrate that we each have unique potentials.

• The artist may not have the potential to be a teacher like the speaker's Dharma is to teach.

New Section

The speaker explains how consciousness needs a material structure to fulfill its destiny and introduces the concept of Purusha and Prakruti.

Consciousness and Material Structure

• Consciousness requires a material structure (Prakruti) to fulfill its destiny.

• The relationship between Purusha (consciousness) and Prakruti is called Samyoga.

• This relationship is intimate and intense, almost inseparable.

New Section

The speaker emphasizes that consciousness exists in every single cell of our body, highlighting its pervasive nature.

Consciousness in Every Cell

• Every cell in our body contains consciousness.

• Cells have the capacity for division, multiplication, nourishment, excretion, etc., which indicates their possession of consciousness.

• Consciousness pervades every part of our system.

New Section

The speaker uses an example of a flower and its smell to illustrate the inseparable nature of Purusha and Prakruti.

Inseparable Relationship: Purusha and Prakruti

• Just as you cannot separate a flower from its smell, Purusha (consciousness) and Prakruti are bound together in an intense relationship called Samyoga.

• Purusha and Prakruti have different natures, like an arranged marriage where they did not choose to be in that relationship.

• The only thing that can separate this relationship is death.

New Section

The speaker explains the purpose of intense relationships and the challenges they may bring.

Purpose of Intense Relationships

• Intense relationships are formed to fulfill Dharma (destiny).

• Challenges arise in intense relationships due to differences in qualities and nature between individuals.

• The nature of Purusha and Prakruti is very different, leading to potential conflicts.

New Section

The speaker elaborates on the conflict between Purusha and Prakruti due to their contrasting natures.

Conflict Between Purusha and Prakruti

• The nature of Purusha (consciousness) and Prakruti (material structure) is fundamentally different.

• This conflict arises because Purusha wants to be eternal while Prakruti has an expiry date.

• The relationship between them is functional but challenging, similar to an arranged marriage.

New Section

The speaker introduces the concepts of Mediator (Purusha) and Non-permanent (Prakruti), further explaining the conflict between them.

Mediator vs. Non-permanent

• Purusha is a mediator, representing an eternal principle compared to the non-permanence of Prakruti.

• Imagine a couple where one person knows they will live for a thousand years while the other knows they will live only 40 years - conflicts are bound to arise due to this difference in lifespan.

New Section

The speaker discusses how conflicts arise between Purusha and Prakruti due to their contrasting natures.

Conflict Between Permanent and Non-permanent

• The conflict between Purusha and Prakruti arises from the difference between permanence and non-permanence.

• Purusha wants to be eternal to fulfill its Dharma, while Prakruti has an expiry date.

• This conflict leads to the desire for eternal existence.

New Section

The speaker explains that the only thing that can separate the relationship between Purusha and Prakruti is death.

Separation of Relationship

• Death is the only thing that can separate the relationship between Purusha (consciousness) and Prakruti (material structure).

• They are bound together in a functional but challenging relationship.

New Section

The speaker discusses how Purusha is considered permanent, while Prakruti is non-permanent, leading to conflicts in their relationship.

Permanent vs. Non-permanent Nature

• Purusha represents permanence, lasting for a long time period.

• Prakruti has an expiry date, making it non-permanent.

• Conflicts arise as Purusha wants to exist until it fulfills its Dharma, while Prakruti cannot be there forever.

New Section

The speaker explains how conflicts arise between Purusha and Prakruti due to their contrasting natures.

Conflict Between Permanent and Non-permanent

• Conflicts arise as one entity knows they have limited time in a body while needing more time to fulfill their Dharma.

• This conflict arises from the difference between permanent (Purusha) and non-permanent (Prakruti) nature.

New Section

The speaker uses the analogy of upgrading a motorbike to explain how Purusha disposes of the body and finds a new one.

Upgrading the Body

• Purusha disposes of the current body when it no longer serves its purpose.

• It then finds a new body to continue fulfilling its Dharma.

• This process is similar to upgrading a motorbike when it becomes outdated.

New Section

The speaker compares the relationship between Purusha and Prakruti to a couple where one knows they will leave soon, causing conflicts.

Conflict in Relationships

• Conflicts arise in relationships when one person knows they will not be there for long and starts showing signs of moving on.

• Similarly, conflicts arise between Purusha and Prakruti due to their contrasting natures.

New Section

The speaker explains how conflicts arise between individuals with different qualities or characteristics.

Conflict Due to Differences

• Conflicts arise when individuals have different qualities or characteristics.

• Using the example of cleanliness, conflicts can occur if one person is extremely clean while the other is very dirty.

New Section

The speaker highlights that Purusha (consciousness) is pure without impressions, while Prakruti (material structure) carries impressions.

Impression and Corruption

• Prakruti carries impressions such as marks from injuries or memories.

• These impressions corrupt our ability to be fully present in the moment.

• Purusha, on the other hand, remains pure without any impressions.

New Section

The speaker emphasizes that conflicts arise between Purusha and Prakruti due to their contrasting natures.

Conflict Between Purusha and Prakruti

• The conflict between Purusha and Prakruti arises from their different natures.

• Purusha is pure, while Prakruti carries impressions.

The Impact of Past Hurt on Perception

This section discusses how past hurt can influence our perception of others, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings in relationships.

The Confusion of Past Impressions

• Past hurt can shape our perception of others, causing us to view them through the lens of that hurt.

• Conflicts arise when one person sees another as nice while the other sees them as not nice due to their past impressions.

• Our perception of others is subjective and influenced by our own experiences and impressions.

The Power of Memory

• Memories are difficult to erase once they are registered in our minds.

• Traumatic experiences, such as being denied something we wanted, can create deep emotional wounds and affect how we perceive others.

• Many people today function from their hurt rather than facts, leading to further conflict and misunderstanding.

Conflict Between Free Spirit and Rigid Boundaries

This section explores the conflict that arises between individuals with different approaches to life - one being a free spirit and the other being rigidly bound by rules and regulations.

Incompatible Approaches

• Relationships between partners with contrasting attitudes towards spontaneity and rigidity often lead to conflict.

• A free-spirited individual desires freedom, spontaneity, and living in the present moment.

• A person bound by rules seeks structure, boundaries, and adherence to plans.

Dysfunction in Purusha (Free Spirit) vs. Prakruti (Boundaries)

• Purusha represents a free spirit that flows freely without limitations or boundaries.

• Prakruti represents matter with boundaries and limitations.

• The clash between these two aspects within ourselves creates psychological confusion.

Trapped in Relationships with Conflicting Desires

This section discusses the challenges faced in relationships where one partner desires freedom while the other seeks control and stability.

The Dilemma of Freedom vs. Control

• Many people choose to remain single to avoid dealing with conflicting desires in a relationship.

• Purusha (free spirit) and Prakruti (boundaries) cannot separate except through death.

• Arranged marriages can trap individuals in relationships where one wants freedom and the other wants control.

Allowing Dominance: Animals vs. Humans

• Animals and plants allow Purusha (consciousness) to dominate, while humans tend to let Prakruti (matter) dominate.

• Enlightened individuals prioritize Purusha, leading to liberation from attachment and limitations.

Dissatisfaction with What Is

This section explores how our dissatisfaction with ourselves and our bodies leads to conflict within ourselves and society.

Attachment to Prakruti (Matter)

• We are attached to our bodies, seeking external means such as anti-aging or beautifying products.

• Our focus on appearance reflects our attachment to Prakruti rather than embracing the free-spirited nature of Purusha.

Conflict Between Free-Spiritedness and Dissatisfaction

• Society's obsession with altering appearances reflects a conflict between embracing free-spiritedness and dissatisfaction.

• We are not content with what we have, leading to inner conflicts and societal issues.

The Conflict Between Purusha and Prakruti

This section discusses the conflict between Purusha (the conscious self) and Prakruti (nature). It explains how Purusha is lively, curious, and wants to live life, while Prakruti is metaphorically dead, bored, lazy, and depressed. The fundamental differences between them cause conflict.

The Problem of Combining Purusha and Prakruti

• When Purusha and Prakruti are separate, there is no suffering. However, when they are combined in a body, it becomes a problem.

• Purusha and Prakruti are fundamentally different in four major dimensions. Their differences lead to conflict.

Understanding the Nature of Suffering

• Patanjali states that the combination of Purusha and Prakruti causes suffering.

• An example is given of being on a flight with a neighbor who has smelly socks. The conflict arises because they cannot separate or change seats.

• The marriage between someone who is alive (Purusha) and someone who is dead (Prakruti) creates problems.

Predetermined Arranged Marriage of Purusha and Prakruti

• In Vedic tradition, the combination of Purusha and Prakruti is predetermined based on past actions.

• We do not get to choose our gender or body constitution; it is predetermined for us.

• The arranged marriage of Purusha and Prakruti is challenging because they have completely different characteristics.

Discovering True Nature Through Challenges

This section explores the idea that challenges and discomfort can lead to self-discovery and understanding one's true nature. It emphasizes the importance of going outside one's comfort zone to truly know oneself.

Challenging Relationships as Opportunities for Self-Discovery

• Patanjali suggests that through the relationship between Purusha and Prakruti, we can discover our true nature.

• Many philosophers agree that it is during challenges that we truly discover ourselves.

• An example is given of Japanese couples who only realize their incompatibility when they go on vacation outside their structured and predictable environment.

The Dysfunctionality of Purusha and Prakruti Relationship

• The relationship between Purusha and Prakruti is described as dysfunctional.

• Modern society's obsession with comfort and entitlement contributes to this dysfunctionality.

Embracing Challenges for Self-Knowledge

• Patanjali highlights the dysfunctional relationship between Purusha and Prakruti as a cause of suffering.

• Going outside our comfort zone allows us to know our true nature, as complacency leads to losing oneself.

Relationship with Prakruti and Ishwara

The speaker discusses the concept of having a relationship with either Prakruti or Ishwara, emphasizing that one cannot have a relationship with both simultaneously. The choice between the two relationships has consequences, but Patanjali does not judge the individual's choice.

Choosing a Relationship

• One can choose to have a relationship with either Prakruti or Ishwara.

• Having a relationship with Prakruti leads to suffering, while having a relationship with Ishwara brings freedom.

• It is not possible to be in a relationship with both Prakruti and Ishwara at the same time.

• Patanjali suggests choosing one relationship to dominate.

Consequences of Choice

• Patanjali does not judge the choice between Prakruti and Ishwara.

• If one chooses to have a relationship with Prakruti, they must face the consequences.

• Similarly, if one chooses to have a relationship with Ishwara, they must also face the consequences.

• Both choices are acceptable, but they are not free from consequences.

Challenges in the Relationship Between Purusha and Prakruti

The speaker highlights that the relationship between Purusha and Prakruti is dysfunctional and leads to suffering. This serves as a reminder that the spiritual path is not easy or smooth.

Dysfunctional Relationship

• The relationship between Purusha (the individual) and Prakruti (nature) is characterized by dysfunctionality.

• Due to their differences, this relationship is challenging and not smooth.

• It becomes a source of dukkha (suffering).

Spiritual Path Not Easy

• Many people mistakenly believe that the spiritual path is easy and smooth.

• The example of Buddha is given, who had a comfortable life but only embarked on the spiritual search when he encountered suffering.

• Spirituality involves dealing with challenges, shadows, and dark sides.

• Every spiritual tradition emphasizes that the path is not easy.

Complexity of Our Existence

Our existence is complex, as it involves a marriage between two different entities (Purusha and Prakruti) in a dysfunctional relationship. This complexity makes the spiritual journey challenging.

Complex Entity

• Our existence is a complex entity resulting from the union of Purusha and Prakruti.

• This union serves to achieve Dharma (purpose).

• The relationship between these two entities is dysfunctional.

Strength in Dysfunction

• Despite their dysfunctionality, when these two entities come together to achieve a common Dharma, they become strong.

• The analogy of Marvel's Avengers is used to illustrate this concept.

• Dysfunctional teams can unite to accomplish great things.