Sadhana Pada
Sentence 11
dhyana heyah tad vrittayah ||11||
ध्यान हेयाः तद्वृत्तयः ॥११॥
dhyāna heyāḥ tad-vṛttayaḥ ||11||
Medidating (dhyana) on that which we wish to overcome eliminates such misconceptions that arise from human mutability (vritti). ||11|
dhyāna = meditation, contemplation
heyāḥ = (nom. pl. m. from heyaḥ) to avoid; to overcome
tad = whose; these
vṛttayaḥ = (from vṛtti) thought waves; waves; chitta turbidity
Kleśa a specific type of vṛtti
Kleśa is a specific type of vṛtti i.e. oneness comprising the physical body, energy, emotion and thought. This manifestation alters our perceptions in the same way that a misconception does [YS I.2-4]. According to Patañjali, dhyāna – a form of quiet contemplation or meditation is the best way to overcome Kleśa.
Whenever I observe Kleśa in myself, I simply apply Patañjali’s advice by taking a brief time out to plumb my own depths. This process of self observation quickly brings be back to my center, and I realize that I am full of happiness and joy, regardless of my outer circumstances. Thus whatever action I take in my life, whether it’s buying a bicycle, relocating to a new apartment, or changing jobs, stems from this inner strength that is rooted in the knowledge that I will feel joy and contentment no matter which decision I make. I never make a decision when in a state of need or expectation.
