Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 3, Verse 45

Pada 3, Sutra 45

Sanskrit Verse

Tato ‘nimaadi-praadur-bhaavah kaaya-sampat tad-dharmaanabhighaatash ca

Translation

From that (constraint on the elements), there results the manifestation of powers such as becoming minute, etc… perfection of the body, and non-affliction by its constituents.

Interpretation

Every form and phenomenon is a reflection of the interactions, combinations and permutations of the five elements. Constraint implies or leads to control hence constraints on the elements will imply or lead to the control of an aspect or aspects of an element or elements. Therefore constraint affords control which leads to the apparent manifestation of powers as mind controls energy and energy controls matter.

The main powers or Siddhis are eight in number and as follow:

Anima—the power to become as minute as an atom

Mahiman—the power to become as large as the universe

Laghiman—the power to become as light as cotton

Praapti—the power to reach any object anywhere

Praakaamya—the power to fulfil any desire

Vashitva—the power to control creation

Ishitrva—the power of creation and to rule over it

Kaamaavasaayitva—the power of Supreme Bliss due to complete mastery over Maya

The manifestation of these powers occur in the subtle body of the Yogi, the interface between the psyche and matter. From mastery of the elements, the Yogi also attains perfection of the body and is non-afflicted by (immune from) the play of their interactions.

Reflection

The goal of Yoga is to realize the Self Within and not to aggrandize the ego. The Siddhis should only be seen as ‘side-effects’ of a controlled and focused mind, and not sought. Instead look at the concepts of the Siddhis as the ennoblement of character, such as:

Anima as humility, becoming as minute as a sub-atomic particle

Mahiman as the largess of the heart encompassing the whole of the Universe and its creatures

Laghiman as ‘lightness’ of the spirit generating faith, hope and courage

Praapti as the ability to reach anyone anywhere to uplift

Praakaamya being the overconsuming desire for Self-realization

Vashitva as mastery of self, the ability to control our ego

Ishitrva as the ability to consciously choose by design (and not default) and hence control and take full responsibility for our thoughts, emotions and actions

Kaamaavasaayitva as service to the whole creation being our highest wish fulfilment , serving the Divine in self and others becoming the highest bliss in thoughts, sentiments and actions.