Description

In Yoga Sutra I.33, Patanjali presents a powerful formula for achieving a peaceful and balanced mind. The sutra reads:

“maitrī-karuṇā-muditopekṣāṇāṁ sukha-duḥkha-puṇyāpuṇya-viṣayāṇāṁ bhāvanātaś citta-prasādanam”

or, in translation:

"By cultivating attitudes of friendliness (maitrī) toward those who are happy, compassion (karuṇā) for those who are suffering, joy (muditā) toward those who are virtuous, and equanimity (upekṣā) toward those who are non-virtuous, the mind becomes serene."

Edwin Bryant, in his comprehensive commentary, calls attention to the intentional simplicity yet profound depth of this sutra, which maps out specific responses to cultivate in various life situations. This approach is transformative for those following a yogic path but also valuable for anyone seeking peace in their daily interactions.

Swami Satchidananda refers to these four attitudes as the "keys" to maintaining a calm mind. He suggests that by consciously applying these attitudes, we unlock a sense of inner peace and clarity even amid life’s complexities. One might even consider these attitudes to be spiritual solutions, guiding us to live harmoniously with others and manage our emotions effectively.

Interestingly, these practices are found not only in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras but also in Buddhist teachings. In Buddhism, they are known as the Brahmavihāras, or “divine abodes,” and similarly guide practitioners in cultivating compassion, kindness, joy, and equanimity. Both traditions encourage these virtues, suggesting their universal applicability and relevance across spiritual paths.

The four practices are tailored to specific situations in life:

1. Maitrī (मैत्री) – Cultivate friendliness toward those experiencing sukha (सुख) or happiness, fostering an open heart free from envy or resentment.
2. Karuṇā (करुणा) – Develop compassion for those experiencing duḥkha (दुःख) or suffering. By practicing compassion, we soften and expand our empathy, helping others without judgment.
3. Muditā (मुदिता) – Rejoice in the virtues and successes (puṇya or पुण्य) of others, nurturing joy instead of comparison.
4. Upekṣā (उपेक्षा) – Practice equanimity toward those in non-virtuous or challenging states (apuṇya or अपुण्य). By remaining even-minded, we stay grounded and don’t get entangled in negativity.

As a whole, these four attitudes provide a toolkit for maintaining mental clarity, emotional resilience, and spiritual balance. Patanjali's teachings in this sutra help us respond thoughtfully to others’ situations, allowing us to foster internal peace and external harmony.