Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 3, Verse 27

Pada 3, Sutra 27

Sanskrit Verse

Candre taaraa-vyooha-jnaanam

Translation

By constraint on the moon—knowledge of the organization of the stars.

Interpretation

The concept of the Moon has many associations. It is a satellite that revolves around the Earth just like the Earth revolves around the Sun. The Moon reflects the light of the Sun, our central star in our Solar System. The Sun is a ball of fire, just like our Inner Sun is a ball of fire at Manipura Chakra, our own Solar Plexus. The reflection of that Inner Fire, our own Inner Moon is the brain itself which has a cooling influence reflecting thoughts and varied levels of awareness.

What we focus on elsewhere is also here within us and therefore relatable.

Both the Sun and Moon have tangible influence on the Earth and its occupants. The Sun provides photosynthesis and therefore the sugars and chlorophyll for plant life which in turn becomes food source for other more evolved beings. We also know as fact the influence of the Sun on vitamin D production and moods. The Moon is no lesser in her influence. She affects the movement of the oceanic tides and menstrual cycles. The Moon is also associated with psychic phenomena, the subconscious mind, the subtle senses, Soma and lunacy.

Both Sun and Moon conjoined is what Yoga and Tantra aim for, and this is what the Ha and Tha of Hatha Yoga stands for—Solar and Lunar energies in a state of equipoise within self. It is the dynamic play of the breath flowing through each nostril stimulating Ida and Pingala, activating and reposing our parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system, with the Highway to Heaven, our own individual Middle Path, in between both.

Reflection

Reflect on ‘Fire in the belly’, ‘being Warm-hearted’ and ‘being cool-headed’. From Passion (Fire) to Compassion (Heart) to discernment (without judgement nor justification leading to Innate Wisdom).