Summary
In Chapter 6 of “Light on Life,” B.K.S. Iyengar explores the profound concept of the “bliss body” (anandamaya kosha) and addresses the fundamental philosophical question of self-identity. He presents a comprehensive framework for understanding human consciousness and the path to spiritual enlightenment. Iyengar begins by elucidating the Five Afflictions (Klesa) that impede spiritual progress: Ignorance (avidya), Pride (asmita), Attachment (raga), Aversion (dvesa), and Fear of Death (abhinivesa). He posits that ignorance is the primary obstacle, from which the other afflictions stem. Overcoming this ignorance, Iyengar asserts, is crucial for genuine spiritual growth and self-realization. He then draws a clear distinction between the ego-driven self and the true Self or Soul. He explicates how identification with the ego leads to suffering and a distorted perception of reality, emphasizing the importance of connecting with one’s eternal, immutable Self. Also, Meditation is presented as a critical practice for transcending the Five Afflictions and attaining higher states of consciousness. Iyengar describes samadhi as the ultimate state of union with the Supreme Soul, characterized by ineffable joy and tranquility.
Iyengar delves into the yogic understanding of nature’s evolution, describing it as originating from a primordial source (mula prakrti) with three fundamental qualities (gunas): inertia (tamas), dynamism (rajas), and luminosity (sattva). The practice of yoga, he explains, aims to harmonize these gunas and facilitate the progression from gross to subtle forms of existence. Then, Iyengar introduces the concept of yoga as involution – an inward journey from the material world to the subtle essence of nature. This process, Iyengar maintains, requires personal effort, willpower, and divine grace. Iyengar emphasizes the significance of prana (cosmic energy) in the yogic journey, drawing parallels between ancient wisdom and modern scientific concepts to demonstrate the enduring relevance of yogic philosophy.
The attainment of samadhi is portrayed as a divine gift, earned through disciplined practice involving the integration of mind, heart, body, and breath. Iyengar stresses that dedicated effort and spiritual alignment are essential for this achievement. In conclusion, Iyengar underscores the interconnectedness of all aspects of yoga practice, emphasizing the importance of balancing spiritual aspirations with ethical living and practical effort. This holistic approach, he argues, leads to harmony between nature and soul, ultimately guiding practitioners toward a deeper understanding of their true, blissful nature.
Focus question for your reading
1. What is the experience of kindness and how is it different from sensory pleasure?
2. How does practicing yoga poses advance us towards an experience of kindness?
3. What is the connection between meditation practice and kindness?
Insight from our session
In Chapter 6, Iyengar delves into the concept of the anandamaya kosha, or bliss body, and the philosophical exploration of self-identity. He outlines the Five Afflictions (Klesa) that hinder our spiritual growth—Ignorance, Pride, Attachment, Aversion, and Fear of Death—emphasizing that overcoming ignorance is key to understanding our true Self. Iyengar also discusses the importance of meditation as a tool to transcend these afflictions and reach higher states of consciousness, ultimately leading to samadhi, the ultimate state of union with the Supreme Soul. Key discussion points from our session include:
- The significance of understanding the Five Afflictions and their impact on our spiritual journey.
- The distinction between the ego-driven self and the true Self, and how identification with the ego leads to suffering.
- The role of yoga in harmonizing the three gunas—tamas, rajas, and sattva—facilitating our progression from gross to subtle forms of existence.
- The concept of yoga as an inward journey, or involution, requiring both personal effort and divine grace.
- The importance of prana (cosmic energy) in the yogic journey and its parallels with modern scientific concepts.
- The holistic approach to yoga, balancing spiritual aspirations with ethical living and practical effort.
