Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 2, Verse 35

Pada 2, Sutra 35

Sanskrit Verse

Ahimsaa-pratisthaayaam tat-sannidhau vaira-tyaagah

Translation

Upon being established in non-violence, hostility is abandoned in the yogin’s presence.

Interpretation

Only when we harbor peace and good will to all of existence can we become established in non-violence and this is initiated by feeling at peace with our own existence. When we become peace itself we become established in non-violence and this radiates from the very core of our being as love and unconditional regard for the whole of existence. This is instinctively felt by others whereby all hostilities are either abandoned or unable to be generated.

On a more subtle level Swami Anandakapila Saraswati in his wonderful work ’A Chakra and Kundalini Workbook’ informs that we are prone to commit violence against higher consciousness by the misuse and abuse of the emotional faculties and to practice Ahimsa or non-violence is to guard our higher consciousness from negative emotions.

Reflection

On one level Ahimsa or non-violence is an example of the application of the Law of Reciprocity.

If we want to experience peace in this world, it starts with being at peace with our own existence and ensuring that all of our thoughts, speech and actions are driven by the intention of non-harm.