YOGA DARSHANA
.....Continued from previous edition
Yogasiddhis
The belief that one can attain supernatural powers by tapas and by the grace of God is very ancient. Patanjali describes quite a few of such powers in the second and the third chapters in order to generate faith in the minds of the ordinary seekers of truth. For instance, he declares that while in the company of a person who is well-established in the virtue of ahimsa, even animals inimical to one another (like a tiger and a cow) will live in peace and mutual harmony. The words of a person rooted in satya will be infallible. One who observes aparigraha very strictly can get a knowledge of his past and future lives.
Samyama on different objects will endow the yogi with several occult powers. For instance, by samyama on the five elements like prthvi (earth) and ap (water), the yogi can get astasiddhis or the eight fold powers like anima (power to become atomic in size), mahima (power to grow to any large size) and so on. Some of the other powers given in the work are: thought-reading, disappearance from view, getting enormous strength, understanding the language of animals and other creatures, and so on.
However, Patanjali, who as a scientist of mind, describes these powers (since they are part of the science), also cautions the aspirant of yoga not to seek them. The temptation for these powers can lead him away from the goal of his life, viz., kaivalya or liberation. But, after the attainment of kaivalya - since he may continue to live for some more time due to prarabdhakarma (the karma that has started this life) - he will have those powers and can safely use them for the good of mankind.
Conclusion
The Yogadarsana is not only ancient but also very practical. Even the Vedantic systems accept its sadhana aspects. Modern psychologists too are discovering its utility in guarding or in regaining mental health. Methods and techniques of yoga are becoming quite popular all over the world. The first two steps - yama and niyama - can contribute to the well-being of the individual as well as of the society. The various asanas - better known as yogasanas - can help in regaining or maintaining one’s health. Thus the Yoga system is gradually gaining universal acceptance.
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