Always satisfied, the self-controlled yogī of firm determination, with mind and intellect dedicated to Me — that devotee of Mine is dear to Me.

Continuing the description of the ideal devotee, this verse adds:

• Santuṣṭaḥ satatam — always satisfied
• Yatātmā — self-controlled
• Dṛḍha-niścaya — firm determination
• Arpita-mano-buddhi — mind and intellect offered

Santuṣṭa (satisfaction, contentment) is one of Patañjali’s niyamas. It is not resignation but fullness that doesn’t depend on external circumstances.

Satatam (always) is crucial: not satisfied sometimes but as a stable state.

Dṛḍha-niścaya (firm determination) connects with the sixth factor of success in the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā (1.13). Without unshakeable resolve, practice is abandoned at the first obstacles.

Mayy arpita (dedicated/offered to Me) introduces the devotional dimension (bhakti). The efforts of practice are offered to something greater than the personal ego.

Sa me priyaḥ (that one is dear to Me) expresses the intimacy between the aspirant and the divine — a relationship of love, not just technique.