While determining Patanjali's "best" quote is subjective and depends on individual resonance, one quote stands out as the most foundational and definitive statement within his seminal work, the Yoga Sutras. This quote eloquently defines the very essence of Yoga:
"Yoga is the cessation of the movements of the mind. Then there is abiding in the Seer's own form."
This profound statement, from the second sutra of the Yoga Sutras (Yoga Sutra 1.2: yogaś citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ), forms the bedrock of Patanjali's teachings. It asserts that the ultimate goal of Yoga is not merely physical postures but the complete calming of the mental fluctuations (citta-vṛtti), leading to the realization of one's true nature or pure consciousness (Seer's own form).
Deeper Insights into Patanjali's Wisdom
Patanjali's wisdom extends beyond this core definition, offering practical guidance for achieving mental tranquility and understanding the nature of existence. Here are other highly impactful quotes attributed to him:
Cultivating Mental Harmony
Another significant quote provides a practical roadmap for achieving undisturbed calmness of mind:
"Undisturbed calmness of mind is attained by cultivating friendliness toward the happy, compassion for the unhappy, delight in the virtuous, and indifference toward the wicked."
This sutra (Yoga Sutra 1.33) outlines a powerful strategy for emotional regulation and fostering inner peace. It suggests that our interactions and attitudes towards others directly influence our mental state:
- Friendliness (Maitri) toward the happy: Rejoicing in others' joy prevents envy and resentment, promoting a positive mental state.
- Compassion (Karuna) for the unhappy: Feeling empathy for those suffering alleviates self-absorption and fosters kindness.
- Delight (Mudita) in the virtuous: Appreciating goodness in others inspires personal growth and avoids cynicism.
- Indifference (Upeksha) toward the wicked: Not engaging emotionally with negativity or harmful actions protects one's inner peace from being disturbed by external moral failings.
This principle emphasizes that cultivating specific attitudes can purify the mind and lead to a state of equanimity.
The Nature of Existence and Suffering
Patanjali also offered a stark yet insightful perspective on the human condition:
"Everything is sorrow for the wise."
This statement (Yoga Sutra 2.15: pariṇāma-tāpa-saṃskāra-duḥkhair guṇa-vṛtti-virodhāc ca duḥkham eva sarvaṁ vivekinaḥ) speaks to the transient and inherently unsatisfactory nature of worldly experiences, even those perceived as pleasurable. For the discerning or "wise" individual, all experiences, due to their impermanence, their potential for pain, and the conditioning they create, ultimately lead to suffering. This perspective encourages detachment from fleeting pleasures and a pursuit of liberation beyond the cycle of desire and dissatisfaction.
Summary of Key Patanjali Quotes
| Quote | Core Message | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| "Yoga is the cessation of the movements of the mind. Then there is abiding in the Seer's own form." | The ultimate goal of Yoga is to quiet the mind to realize one's true, unchanging essence. | Foundational definition of Yoga; emphasizes mental discipline over physical postures. |
| "Undisturbed calmness of mind is attained by cultivating friendliness toward the happy, compassion for the unhappy, delight in the virtuous, and indifference toward the wicked." | Practical guide to emotional well-being and mental peace through specific attitudes towards others. | Offers actionable steps for daily life to cultivate equanimity and inner tranquility. |
| "Everything is sorrow for the wise." | All worldly experiences, even pleasurable ones, contain the seeds of suffering due to their impermanence and ability to create attachment. | Highlights the importance of detachment and seeking liberation from the cycle of suffering. |
Patanjali's Yoga Sutras offer a timeless and comprehensive framework for understanding the human mind, the nature of reality, and the path to liberation. While the definition of Yoga itself is often considered his most pivotal statement, all his teachings contribute to a profound system for self-realization.
