Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 2, Verse 54

Pada 2, Sutra 54

Sanskrit Verse

Sva-visayaasamprayoge cittasya svaroopaanukaara ivendriyaanaam pratyaahaarah

Translation

Pratyahara or sense withdrawal is when the senses withdraw from sensory objects turning inward to link with the mind’s essential nature.

Interpretation

The initial stage of renunciation being withdrawal from the world is really redirecting the mind’s attraction from sensory objects to its own source of perception. It is the lead to being in the world but not of it.

Pratyahara or sense withdrawal is therefore the path of the psyche turning the mind’s attention from an external to an internal focus. Our concentration can then turn within to link and eventually become absorbed into the Matrix of Consciousness itself (Samadhi).

Reflection

Mind the mind castle lest it becomes invaded by external agents through the avenues of the senses. Are we a puppet to our senses or are we the puppet master?