Texts / Śivasaṃhitā / Verse 5.14

Śivasaṃhitā 5.14

Pañcamaḥ paṭalaḥ — Dhyāna

Sanskrit text

चतुर्विधयोगकथनम्। मन्त्रयोगो हठश्चैव लययोगस्तृतीयकः ।

Transliteration

caturvidhayogakathanam| mantrayogo haṭhaścaiva layayogastṛtīyakaḥ |

Translation

Those who have the largest amount of energy, are enterprising, engaging, heroic, who know the Shastras, and are persevering, free from the effects of blind emotions, and, not easily confused, who are in the prime of their youth, moderate in their diet, rulers of their senses, fearless, clean, skillful, charitable, a help to all; competent, firm, talented, contented, forgiving, good-natured, religious, who keep their endeavors secret, of sweet speech, peaceful, who have faith in scriptures and are worshippers of God and Guru, who are averse to fritter away their time in society, and are free from any grievous malady, who are acquainted with the duties of the adhimatra, and are the practitioners of every kind of Yoga --undoubtedly, they obtain success in three years; they are entitled to be initiated in all kinds of Yoga, without any hesitation. Invocation of the shadow (pratikopasana).

Commentary

This verse introduces the four types of yoga, highlighting the diversity of spiritual paths in the yogic tradition. Each form of yoga offers unique methods to achieve union with the divine, adapting to individual capacities and preferences. The mention of these specific types underscores the comprehensive nature of the yogic system, which encompasses both physical and spiritual aspects.

The term “laya yoga” refers to the dissolution or absorption of consciousness into the divine. “Laya” (laya) means dissolution, and in this context, it describes a deep meditative state where the practitioner transcends duality and experiences unity with the universe. This type of yoga emphasizes the internalization of energy and consciousness.

Historically, the classification of yogas into different categories reflects the evolution and diversification of spiritual practices in India. This categorization allows practitioners to choose the path that best aligns with their natural dispositions and spiritual goals, thereby facilitating a more personalized and effective approach to enlightenment.

Key terms

rāja haṭha mantra
Verse 5.13
All verses
Verse 5.15