Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 3, Verse 35

Pada 3, Sutra 35

Sanskrit Verse

Sattva-purusayor atyantaasankeernayoh pratyayaavisheso bhogah paraarthaat svaartha-sanyamaat purusa-jnaanam

Translation

Experience is a notion which does not distinguish between the most refined mode of material nature and the Self. However they are quite distinct from each other. By constraint on the Self’s own purpose distinct from Nature’s purpose of being, one attains to the knowledge of the Self.

Interpretation

Sattva is the material mode of Nature which is of the refined state—balanced and light compared to Rajas which is active and fiery, and Tamas which is heavy and dull. The material mode of Nature or Gunas allow for the unfoldment of the theatre of life in order for the Self to witness its Leela or Divine Play. So no matter how one is elevated and refined in the Sattva Guna, it is still an aspect of Nature and fluctuating in its expression as the very dynamism of the world of phenomena. On the other hand, the Self Within is the Eternal Witness, never born, never dies and unaffected by the actions and interactions of the three Gunas.

Therefore by Sanyama or constraint on the Self distinct from Sattva Guna, one will be able to distinguish between the most sublime and refined Earthly enjoyment that Sattva Guna can afford versus the inherent ever-expanding bliss (Anandam) of the Self unlimited by any modes or concept of time.

Reflection

The Eternal Self Within is priceless. It cannot be found or bought in the marketplace. It cannot be traded or exchanged for anything. It is your very best and most loyal friend, your eternal parent, your Divine Lover who will never part from you. It is named Atma, Brahman, God of all gods, the One Without a Second and the Absolute.