Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 4, Verse 5

Pada 4, Sutra 5

Sanskrit Verse

Pravrtti-bhede prayojakam cittam ekam anekesaam

Translation

Although there is division in activity, one mind is the initiator and motivator of many mind fields.

Interpretation

Even though our ego personality identifies itself as one entity, in verity our ego is like a collective of disparate selves. The mind associated with the ego is constantly at six and sevens with itself and the world at large. The mind runs the individual instead of being under one’s control. The mind when under one’s control is a good servant but it is neither a good nor reliable master.

Reflection

In actuality there is only one mind, the Universal Mind which is called Mahat. The birthing of the individual mind occurs when the Jiva identifies with the reflection of Mahat in one’s own mirror of consciousness (Cit).