Realization of Our True Nature • Yoga Basics

Translation Yoga Sutra 1.3

Sanskrit: ??? ???????? ???????????????????

Transliteration: Tad? dra??u? svar?pe’vasth?nam

Word for word translation:

• tad? = then or only after, suggesting that this state is achieved after the cessation of mental fluctuations (v?ttis).
• dra??u? = the true self, the soul, the seer, or the pure consciousness that observes without being subject to change.
• sva = own
• r?pe = color, form, nature
• avasth?nam = rests, abides

Other Popular Translations

“Then The Seer Abides In Itself” — Hariharananda Aranya

“Then the Seer is established in his own essential nature.” — I. K. Taimni

“When thought ceases, the spirit stands in it’s true identity as observer to the world.” — Barbara Miller

“At that time (the time of concentration) the seer (Purusha) rests in his own (unmodified) state.” — Swami Vivekananda

“When that is accomplished, the seer abides in its own true nature.” — Edwin Bryant

The Path of Self-realization

The path to self-realization, as outlined in Yoga Sutra 1.3, involves a deep commitment to meditation practice, self-inquiry, devotion, and detachment. This journey requires diligence, as the mind’s fluctuations, known as vrittis, are deeply embedded patterns. These mental shifts—as thoughts, emotions, and sensory experiences — bind us to a narrow identity, one heavily influenced by external situations and the approval of others.

When we recognize the drashtuh—the “seer” within us—we tap into our true nature. In this state of witness consciousness, we begin to distinguish between the transient nature of our thoughts and emotions and the eternal essence of our being. This process is akin to calming a turbulent sea; as the waters settle, we begin to glimpse the clarity beneath the surface. In this state of stillness, the true Self emerges, revealing itself as pure consciousness—free from the distortions of the mind.

The Role of Self-Inquiry

The path of jnana yoga is a quest for spiritual knowledge and wisdom. At the core of this exploration lies self-inquiry, or atma-vichara. This introspective practice invites seekers to deeply examine their essential nature. One ponders profound questions such as, “Who am I?”, “Am I just my body or mind?” and “Are my thoughts truly me?” These questions encourage yogis to cultivate discernment (viveka), to differentiate the real (the eternal Self) from the unreal (the ego’s identity, thoughts and emotions).

Through rigorous self-inquiry, the layers of false identification and spiritual ignorance—those woven from past experiences, societal roles, and cultural expectations—begin to unravel. Ramana Maharshi taught that persistent contemplation on the origin of the ‘I’-thought will eventually dissolve it into pure self-awareness. Instead of identifying with the ever-changing landscape of our thoughts, we become the steadfast observer, the witness that experiences life, yet remains unaffected by its fluctuations.

The Journey of Letting Go

Attachments to material possessions, relationships, sense objects, and outcomes clouds our perception and anchors us to our limited egoic identity. The practice of detachment, or vairagya, is essential in reducing our mental fluctuations. When we let go of our attachments, we no longer derive our sense of self-worth from external sources or cling to transient experiences.

Our attachments often perpetuate a cycle of suffering and dissatisfaction. The practice of vairagya enables us to approach life from a place of inner freedom. It does not imply apathy or renunciation of the world; rather, it helps us be more present in the moment and to maintain equanimity in the face of life’s inevitable ups and downs.

The Path of Devotion

Bhakti is a yoga practice that emphasizes surrendering the individual ego to a higher power or divine essence. A deep state of devotion can help us to transcend the illusion of separateness that the ego perpetuates. Devotional practices, such as chanting or prayer, cultivate compassion, connection, humility, and trust, can slowly erode the barriers of the ego and help tame the fluctuations of our thoughts.

The Power of Selfless Action

Karma yoga is the practice of performing actions without attachment to the results. As we engage in selfless service, we can start to dissolve the most tumultuous thoughts of ‘I’ and ‘mine.’ Each time we choose to act without seeking personal gain, we transcend the confines of our individual identity and strengthen the awareness of our true nature.

Awareness and Stillness Through Meditation

Meditation is one of the most potent allies in calming the mind’s vrittis. By focusing intently on our breath or a chosen object of meditation, we can soften the chatter of our minds and slow down the fluctuations of thought and reaction. With consistent practice, this discipline cultivates not only an awareness of our thoughts but also a deeper understanding of the underlying patterns that fuel them. As our minds settle, we can transition from being absorbed in mental noise to recognizing the serene observer within—the true self.

Benefits of Realizing the True Self