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Means of Elimination of Kleshas (Afflictions) or Viveka Khyati According to the Samadhi and Sadhana Pada
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras offers profound insights into overcoming the obstacles and afflictions (kleshas) that hinder self-realization. In the Samadhi Pada and Sadhana Pada, Patanjali emphasizes that the ultimate aim of yoga is to achieve liberation (kaivalya) by eliminating these afflictions through the cultivation of discernment (viveka khyati). This article explores the nature of kleshas, the role of viveka khyati in their eradication, and the practical means provided by Patanjali for transcending these obstacles.
1. Introduction
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras identifies kleshas as the root cause of human suffering, perpetuating cycles of ignorance and attachment. These afflictions obscure the true self (Purusha) and bind individuals to worldly experiences. The cultivation of viveka khyati (discriminative knowledge) is presented as the ultimate solution for overcoming kleshas, leading to liberation. The Samadhi Pada outlines the theoretical basis for recognizing and addressing afflictions, while the Sadhana Pada provides practical techniques for their elimination.
2. Nature of Kleshas
2.1 Definition of Kleshas
The term klesha translates to "affliction" or "obstacle," referring to mental and emotional states that cause suffering and ignorance. Sutra 2.3 of the Sadhana Pada lists the five kleshas:
- Avidya (Ignorance): The root cause of all other kleshas; a misunderstanding of reality.
- Asmita (Egoism): Identification with the ego or sense of “I.”
- Raga (Attachment): Excessive desire for pleasurable experiences.
- Dvesha (Aversion): Avoidance of unpleasant experiences.
- Abhinivesha (Clinging to Life): Fear of death or deep-rooted attachment to survival.
2.2 Relationship Between Kleshas and Suffering
Patanjali explains that kleshas perpetuate the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). They lead to mental disturbances (vrittis), physical suffering, and emotional turmoil. The elimination of kleshas is essential for achieving inner peace and liberation.
3. Role of Viveka Khyati in Overcoming Kleshas
3.1 Meaning of Viveka Khyati
Viveka khyati refers to the knowledge that arises from discriminative discernment, allowing one to distinguish between the eternal self (Purusha) and the transient nature of the material world (Prakriti). This clarity dispels ignorance and diminishes the influence of kleshas.
3.2 How Viveka Khyati Eliminates Avidya
- Avidya, or ignorance, is the primary affliction that fuels the other kleshas.
- Viveka khyati reveals the true nature of reality, exposing the illusions created by avidya.
- When ignorance is dispelled, the remaining afflictions lose their power, leading to freedom from suffering.
4. Kleshas in the Samadhi Pada
4.1 Recognition of Afflictions as Mental Fluctuations
The Samadhi Pada emphasizes that mental fluctuations (vrittis) caused by kleshas must be stilled to achieve samadhi.
Sutra 1.2 defines yoga as the cessation of these fluctuations (Yoga Chitta Vritti Nirodha), which allows the practitioner to transcend afflictions.
4.2 Cultivation of Clarity Through Abhyasa and Vairagya
- Abhyasa (Practice): Repeated effort to maintain mental focus and stability.
- Vairagya (Detachment): Cultivation of non-attachment to desires and outcomes. Vyasa’s commentary highlights these as essential tools for breaking the grip of kleshas.
5. Kleshas in the Sadhana Pada
5.1 Purification Through the Eightfold Path (Ashtanga Yoga)
Patanjali’s Eightfold Path provides practical steps for overcoming kleshas:
- Yama (Ethical Restraints):
- Non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), and other virtues reduce klesha-induced conflicts.
- Niyama (Personal Disciplines):
- Cleanliness (Shaucha) and contentment (Santosha) purify the mind.
- Asana (Postures):
- Physical discipline aids in mental focus.
- Pranayama (Breath Control):
- Regulates energy and calms the mind.
- Pratyahara (Sense Withdrawal):
- Redirects attention inward, away from sensory distractions.
- Dharana (Concentration):
- Fixes the mind on a single point, reducing mental disturbances.
- Dhyana (Meditation):
- Sustained focus on truth dispels ignorance.
- Samadhi (Absorption):
- The ultimate state of liberation, where kleshas no longer arise.
5.2 Surrender to Ishvara
Sutra 1.23 introduces Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to the divine) as a means to transcend afflictions. This surrender cultivates humility, dissolving egoism (asmita) and fostering inner peace.
6. Practical Means to Eliminate Kleshas
6.1 Meditation and Mindfulness Practices
Meditation allows practitioners to observe and understand their mental patterns, reducing the influence of kleshas. Techniques include:
- Focused meditation on the nature of Purusha.
- Observing mental fluctuations without attachment.
6.2 Cultivation of Opposite Thoughts (Pratipaksha Bhavana)
- Sutra 2.33: “When disturbed by negative thoughts, cultivate their opposites.”
- Example: Counter anger with compassion, or jealousy with gratitude.
6.3 Role of Samadhi
Advanced meditative states, particularly nirvikalpa samadhi (objectless absorption), dissolve the deep-seated impressions (samskaras) that sustain kleshas.
7. Modern Applications of Viveka Khyati
7.1 Relevance in Managing Stress and Emotional Well-Being
- Recognizing the impermanence of challenges helps alleviate anxiety and fear.
- Mindfulness practices rooted in viveka khyati enhance emotional regulation.
7.2 Techniques for Integrating Discernment Into Daily Life
- Journaling to reflect on thoughts and emotions.
- Cultivating non-attachment to material outcomes in professional and personal contexts.
8. Conclusion
The elimination of kleshas through viveka khyati is central to the path of yoga as outlined in the Samadhi Pada and Sadhana Pada of the Yoga Sutras. By cultivating discernment, detachment, and mindfulness, practitioners can transcend ignorance and achieve inner peace. The practical techniques provided by Patanjali, such as meditation, ethical living, and the Eightfold Path, remain profoundly relevant in the modern quest for mental clarity and spiritual liberation.
9. References
- Iyengar, B.K.S. Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
- Satchidananda, Swami. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: Commentary on the Raja Yoga Sutras.
- Desikachar, T.K.V. The Heart of Yoga: Developing a Personal Practice.
- Mohan, A.G. Yoga for Body, Breath, and Mind.
- Vyasa’s Commentary on the Yoga Sutras.
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