Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 3, Verse 44

Pada 3, Sutra 44

Sanskrit Verse

Sthoola-svaroopa-sooksmaanvayaarthavattva-sanyamaad bhoota-jayah

Translation

Through constraint on their gross state, essential nature, subtle state, interconnectedness, and their purpose, mastery over the elements.

Interpretation

The material world is made up of 5 elements. Each element, as per the table above, exist in a gross and subtle state, are interconnected, and have both an essential nature and a purpose. The material world has as its efficient cause, Prakriti or Nature and includes the mind which is energy. Both matter and energy and hence mind are interchangeable. By this understanding and constraint on the various aspects of the elements, it is possible to attain mastery of them.

Reflection

Consciousness Itself devoid of any quality, name, form or reference meaning beyond object, space and time is known by various appellation such as the One Without a Second, the Ineffable, the Absolute, Brahman and Atman.

Pure Consciousness (Shiva) → Consciousness in Action = Energy (Shakti) → Energy in Action = Matter.

Thou Art That—Tatvam Asi—Thou Art Shiva—Shivo Hum. The Self lies behind and beyond, and is totally unaffected, by all appearances and conditions created by the 5 elements. It is the Pure Witness Consciousness, without beginning or end, addition or subtraction.