The Essence of Sāmkhya Kārikās: The Foundation of Yoga Philosophy

By Damini Dalal

In everyday life we usually expect a lot from situations, people and the world around us. However, neither situations, people nor the world behave to our expectations. This is the most common cause for all problems in life.

The Essence of Sāṁkhya will help you tackle the above with a transformed perspective. You will understand that anything that you see, know or experience in the world exists because it has some prior cause through which it has arisen.
The principles of Sāṁkhya have been introduced as a practical application on the journey of life, enabling the avid seeker to live life fully. The intention and the attempt of the author has been to remain true to the original teachings and propose practical application in the context of modern life and living. Steering clear of preaching and prescribing the norms, this book presents the practical application of the profound philosophy in a new light which is easily grasped by the common man.

The renewed interpretation holds the ‘Householder Yoga’ and ‘Life School’ philosophy of The Yoga Institute in perspective along with imbibing the Sāṁkhya principles in practice.

The book also pays ode to Indian Yoga Guru Dr.JayadevaYogendra for his significant contribution to Yoga renaissance with the introduction of the bhavas as expounded in the Sāṁkhya, along with the practice of Patañjali's classical Yoga.

The practice of Sāṁkhya, according to Dr.Jayadeva, leads to an integrated personality who can rise above the ups and downs of householder’s life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Damini Dalal
• Release date: Aug 9, 2018
• ISBN: 9789387242128

Book preview

1

Our Legacy: The Yoga Institute

The Yoga Institute was founded on 25 December 1918 by Yogendraji. It found a permanent base in Santacruz, Bombay (now Mumbai), in 1948. Spread over an acre of land amidst nature, with three buildings dedicated to yogic activities, this non-profit organization has been running on its own strength for almost ten decades. It entered its 100th year on 25 December in 2017. Thousands of people visit the institute every day for training and health consultations.

Paramhamsa Madhavadasji: Guru of Founder Shri Yogendraji

His Holiness Paramhamsa Madhavadasji was born in 1798 to a Mukhopadhyaya family in Bengal. His upbringing inspired in him a devotional attitude. At the tender age of twenty-three, he left his home in search of higher pursuits whilst working as a lawyer. His early association with bhakti rituals could not satisfy the reformist concepts that he was seeking, so he learnt different traditions by travelling across Assam, Tibet and the Himalayas to get a first-hand knowledge of yoga. In his later years, Paramhamsa Madhavadasji was in Bombay at Madhavbaug for a discourse where he met Yogendraji (then known as Mani). A strong bond developed between the two, and he personally guided and trained Mani on the path of yoga.

Founder – Shri Yogendraji

Yogendraji was born as Mani Haribhai Desai in 1897 in Gujarat. Through a chance meeting, he found his guru, Paramhamsa Madhavadasji and learnt all about yoga from him. With the blessings of his guru, Yogendraji went on to spread the esoteric knowledge of yoga among the masses, as he felt it could greatly improve the lives of people. He founded The Yoga Institute at ‘The Sands’, the residence of Dadabhai Naoroji in Versova in 1918. There, he helped many people recover from various ailments through yoga. Following this, he travelled to the United States and founded The Yoga Institute in Harriman, New York, in 1920, where he undertook much research on the subtle physiological and psychological effects of yoga along with scientists and doctors. Yogendraji then returned to India and following the wishes of his father, married and remained a ‘Householder Yogi’. He has written many authoritative texts on yoga based on the ancient scriptures. Some of his books are even preserved in the Crypt of Civilization for posterity. Along with his wife, Sitadevi, Yogendra continued to teach and spread the awareness of classical yoga at the institute until his passing away in 1989.

Smt. Sitadevi Yogendra

Smt. Sitadevi Yogendra, fondly known as Mother, married Yogendraji in 1927 and joined him in his mission to spread the knowledge of yoga. She began teaching women and children at the institute and has written many articles and books on the subject. Her book, Yoga Physical Education for Women is also preserved in the Crypt of Civilization. Mother Sitadevi passed away in 2008 at the age of ninety-seven.

Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra, late President, The Yoga Institute

Born in 1929, son of Yogendraji and Sitadevi, Dr Jayadeva Yogendra was a simple man and a true yogi. Having seen his complete dedication to a life of discipline and simplicity, the sadhakas (disciples) of the institute consider him as their true guru. Being born in a family of yogis, he had a spiritual inclination since childhood. As the President of The Yoga Institute, he continued the founder’s legacy with utmost sincerity. He was also the editor of the institute’s monthly journal, ‘Yoga & Total Health’ published since 1933. Dr. Jayadeva had completed his masters in Samkhya philosophy and yoga at Bombay University in 1952. In 1955, he was awarded the Har Gobind scholarship for a Ph.D for his thesis on Moksha Parvan. He had introduced several courses at the institute, and had done pioneering work in yoga education and therapeutics. Students at the institute drew inspiration from his wisdom, compassion, wit and unflinching commitment to truth.

Smt. Hansaji Jayadeva Yogendra – Director, The Yoga Institute

A dynamic and charismatic personality, Hansaji, wife of Dr Jayadeva Yogendra and the present director of the institute, has dedicated her life to its running and teaching yoga as a way of life in a completely practical way. She has been honoured as the ‘Woman of the Year 2000’ by the American Biographical Institute, for her outstanding accomplishments and being the noble example for our society. She is perhaps best known for the popular television series ‘Yoga for Better Living’, first aired in 1980.

Hansaji was recognized for her contribution to women’s health through the award presented by Society for the Promotion of Area Resource Centres (SPARC). She has conducted several seminars and lecture tours in India and Europe, Australia, Canada, Pakistan, Hong Kong and the US. She has also authored many books and articles on yoga. She was invited by the National Council for Education Research and Training (NCERT) along with Dr Jayadeva to formulate a syllabus focusing on yoga for schools nationwide.

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2

In Gratitude

In all humility, my deepest reverence, to the great gurus of yore who have imparted this profound wisdom of enriching life and revealing the path of attaining the highest ideals.

At The Yoga Institute, the philosophical concepts of the four bhāvas based on Sāṁkhya philosophy, introduced by Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra, are an intrinsic part of every activity of life and all Yoga techniques. For him, a philosophy is incomplete without its practice in daily life. I have tried my best to incorporate that spirit in this writing. My utmost gratitude and respect to Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra, late President of The Yoga Institute, from whom the basics of philosophy became ingrained as a daily, moment-to-moment practice.

Hansaji J. Yogendra, Director, The Yoga Institute, is an epitome of a practicing yogini of ‘life and living’ through Yoga ideologies. My innermost gratefulness to her. The ‘Foreword’ is her grace!

Gratitude to Hrishi Jayadeva Yogendra, Assistant Director of The Yoga Institute, whose keen understanding and appreciation resulted in this free-flowing hermeneutical approach.

Thankfulness to senior sādhakas of The Yoga Institute, Sarita Modi, Kavita Uttamani, Dr. Taruna Kardak, Mohan Ramaswami, Neha Jethwani and all the sādhakas who contributed from their lecture notes of the teachings of Dr. Jayadeva. Gratefulness to Suchitra Pareekh, senior sādhaka and to librarian Phalguni Barodia for suggesting important reference books. To Kartik Vyas, senior sādhaka, my friend, philosopher and guide for his motivation. To senior sādhaka, Dilipbhai Tralshawala, for his wisdom and guidance and Sudalaimani Thevar, Sāṁkhya teacher, for reading the manuscript in detail and his thoughtful suggestions.

Such a task, as enquiring into an ancient text as the Sāṁkhya kārikās would not have been possible without the teachings of my professors at the University of Mumbai. My gratitude to Dr. Rameshbhai Dave, Dr. Shubhada Joshi, Dr. Geeta Mohan, Dr. Veena Londhe and Dr. Purnima Dave. Deep gratitude to my professor of Sanskrit and Indology at Anantacharya Indological Research Institute, Dr. K.K.C Lakshmi Narsimhan, direct descendent of Rāmānujācārya.

I would also extend my gratitude to Shri Yogesh Sharma of Zen Publications.

All mistakes are entirely mine and my heartfelt apologies.

– Damini Dalal

The Yoga Institute, Santacruz, Mumbai

August 2018

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3

Foreword

Sāṁkhya and Yoga go hand in glove. After the study of Sāṁkhya, human mind becomes clear and is able to discriminate between Puruṣa and Prakṛti. One who studies and follows Sāṁkhya philosophy will be in a balanced state of mind and not get disturbed by challenging circumstances. It also helps to see life more objectively because one learns that everything here is constituted of Pancha Mahabhuta. It also supports the process of not getting identified with self, others and things too. A sadhaka on the path of Yoga must learn and implement lessons of Sāṁkhya for life changing experiences.

Dr Jayadeva Yogendra, a true yogi and a man of few words has touched lives of millions with his complete dedication to a life of discipline and simplicity. The philosophical concepts of the four bhāvas based on Sāṁkhya philosophy, introduced by him, are an intrinsic part of every activity of life and all Yoga techniques.

However, most of Sāṁkhya texts in the market are too philosophical and incomprehensible. Here is an attempt to bring out the core essence of Sāṁkhya in simple language.

The Yoga Institute, the world’s oldest organized centre of Yoga, promotes Classical Yoga as a way of life for the householders in a holistic way. It is a Life School where people learn how to live and face life with a strong foundation in yogic values, faith and spirituality. Based on the teachings of Sāṁkhya and various other classical Sanskrit texts, The Yoga Institute teaches Yoga as a science of awareness and a culture of consciousness.

Since philosophical principles of Yoga are based on Sāṁkhya teachings, this book aims to revive the ancient philosophy and blend into the study of Yoga for a common man. The Essence of Sāṁkhya Kārikās has simplified the ancient wisdom in a comprehensible language for the current generation who are sincerely seeking to know the profound thinking of the masters and practice their teachings.

Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra has read in between the lines and explored the depth of the Sāṁkhya kārikās to give us insights of bhavas as well as encouraging the practice and development of the four sāttvika bhāvas of dharma, jῆāna, vairāgya and aiśvarya towards personal growth.

I welcome this book that has been penned by Damini Dalal, Dr. Jayadeva’s disciple, in a systematic manner. She has elucidated such a profound philosophy in an easy-to-understand style yet staying true to the original teachings. Focusing on the practical aspects, Damini has referred to real life examples to make the philosophy relatable.

I live Yoga holds true only when one is living life with awareness of Sāṁkhya teachings.

– Hansaji J Yogendra

August 2018

The Yoga Institute, Mumbai

4

Sanskrit Reading –

Pronunciation Guide

Note:

1. Pronunciation of Sanskrit words is difficult to explain since they rely on the formation of the mouth, lips, tongue, palate and teeth during speaking. For example, ‘t’ a softer sound arises by making the sound as the tip of the tongue touches the upper inner front teeth whereas the strong sound, ‘ṭ’ arises when the sound is made as the tip of the tongue touches the palate (roof of the mouth).

2. The current terms BCE – Before Common Era and ACE/CE – After Common Era/Common Era are used instead of BC (Before Christ) and AD (Anno Domino) respectively.

3. The word ‘Sanskrit’ has been left as it is and no diacritical marks have been added to it throughout the text.

4. The terms ‘Puruṣa’ and ‘Mūla Prakṛti’ (avyakta Prakṛti, unmanifest state) begin in the upper case in all instances (even when the term Prakṛti is used alone without its prefix Mūla). But in its vyakta, manifested state, the term begins in the lower case as prakṛti.

5. Within the text, the terms ‘Yoga’ and ‘Sāṁkhya’ always begin in the upper case, especially in the case of Yoga where it is considered as the path, the means and the goal.

6. The English transliteration of the kārikās is based on The Sāṁkhya Philosophy by Nandlal Sinha, The Panini Office, Bahadurganj, Allahabad, 1915

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5

Prelude

Vāde vāde tattva bodhaḥ

‘Infinite interpretations, the scriptures arouse’!

The extent of Indian philosophy is vast, and delving within this immense body of knowledge is like leaping into the oceans of the world. In the introduction to this book, basic ideas from the Indian classical philosophical systems have been explained in brief to understand the position of Sāṁkhya philosophy within the growth of Indian philosophical thought.

This book is a renewed exploration of the Sāṁkhya Kārikās of Īśvara Kṛṣṇa. So far, Sāṁkhya has always been regarded as a philosophy where the concepts of evolution, matter and conscious entities are discussed. The ‘praxis’, its actual application, practice and experience in life, has so far been unexplored. Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra, late President, The Yoga Institute always emphasised this point; that any Indian philosophy has an unsaid rule: its practice to make it complete!

It is a challenge to present the complexities of any ancient philosophy. Especially, not allowing it to remain a mere intellectual study but introducing its principles as a practical application on the journey of life, enabling the avid seeker to live life fully, yet, remaining grounded in philosophic wisdom. The endeavour is to remain true to the original teachings yet leaving room for its practical application in the context of modern life and living.

Again, the intention is not to preach or prescribe norms. It is bringing out the traditions from closed jackets of an ancient jargon and presenting it in a new light. It is understanding the ancient language through a hermeneutical approach, creating a new interpretation and reflection to render it more suitable for the sincere seeker of practical philosophy who seeks to bring about transformations within her/him towards more aware states of self-consciousness rather than philosophic precision alone. Therefore, this writing is also not intended as an academic pursuit. It is to ensure a tradition remains alive.

Necessity of a Hermeneutical Interpretation

Hermeneutics, the methodology of interpretation, is not new to the Indian philosopher as the ṣad darśana are a hermeneutical interpretation of the Vedas and Upaniṣads. The ancient ‘nirukta’ and the ‘vyākaraṇa’ texts are evidence of hermeneutical methodology.

The term hermeneutics arose in the West in the context of interpretation of the Bible and other philosophical texts. As a philosophical tradition, it was used by Aristotle but became a part of philosophical methodology in the 19th and 20th century with philosophers and scholars such as Martin Heidegger, Friedrich Schleiermacher, Wilhelm Dilthey, Jacques Derrida, Hans-Georg Gadamer and others. This method is now used within a wide spectrum of applications in art, law, literature and other diverse fields.

Gadamer, in his book, ‘Truth and Method’, elaborates on philosophical hermeneutics. According to him, our understanding of a text is always changing and hence new perspectives arise. Interpreting a text involves a ‘fusion of horizons’ which, makes it necessary to understand a work in its own context, historical background and the current trends. It is a renewal and re-telling of the tradition where the original thoughts have challenged the modern thinker and as a result, a different dimension of understanding of the text arises. This is the purpose of this writing.

Sāṁkhya, though an independent philosophy and considered to be one of the oldest, has its origins debatable and veiled in mystery. There are no ‘directly’ discernible roots in ancient scriptures as the Vedas and no dates can be decisively ascribed to its founders, hence, a hermeneutical approach became imperative. Secondly, and most important, a renewed interpretation became necessary to keep the ‘Householder Yoga’ and ‘Life School’ philosophy of The Yoga Institute in perspective along with imbibing the Sāṁkhya principles in practice. Therefore, in this book no particular commentaries