DEFINITION, TECHNIQUE, MECHANISM, AND OUTCOME OF AHIṂSĀ AS UNDERSTOOD FROM STUDY OF SELECT SANSKRIT COMMENTARIES ON PATAÑJALI YOGASŪTRA

Abstract

This paper explores the concept of "ahiṃsā" (non-violence) as presented in Patañjali Yogasūtra’s, focusing on its definition, technique, mechanism, and outcome as interpreted by key traditional Sanskrit commentators. While Patañjali does not directly define ahiṃsā, the study examines interpretations from ancient commentaries such as Vyāsa’s bhāṣya, Bhoja's Raja Martanda, Nārāyaṇa Tīrtha's Yoga Siddhānta Candrikā, Sadāshiva Brahmendra's Yoga Sudhākara, and Hariharānanda āraṇya's Bhāsvati. These sources offer valuable insights into the multidimensional nature of ahiṃsā, emphasizing its practice through actions, thoughts, and speech. Central to understanding its practice is the technique of pratipakṣa-bhāvana (cultivating opposing thoughts), which transforms harmful tendencies into positive states of mind. The study also delves into the mechanism of ahiṃsā pratiṣṭhā (establishment of non-violence), which leads to the cessation of harmful thoughts and the manifestation of spiritual powers. The outcome of a committed practice of ahiṃsā is the abandonment of enmity, even among natural adversaries, fostering harmony and peace in the yogi's environment. The paper concludes that ahiṃsā, when fully realized, is not only essential for personal spiritual growth but also for the cultivation of a peaceful and harmonious world.