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## Equality as the Essence
**Chapter Four of Yoga Shastra, Verses 110-114**
This section concludes the discussion on the causes of non-attachment (nirmama) and connects it to the concept of equality (samata).
**Verse 110:**
**Meaning:** The mind that is constantly influenced by these twelve emotions (referring to the twelve emotions discussed previously) becomes free from attachment to all things and embraces equality.
**Verse 111:**
**Meaning:** For those who are detached from worldly objects and whose minds are filled with equality, the fire of passions (kṣayāgni) is extinguished, and the lamp of right conduct (bodhidīpa) shines brightly.
**Explanation:** This verse explains how conquering the senses leads to conquering passions, purifying the mind leads to conquering the senses, overcoming attachment and aversion leads to mental purity, and equality leads to overcoming attachment and aversion. It emphasizes that non-attachment, the essence of these emotions, leads to the attainment of equality.
**Verse 112:**
**Meaning:** After establishing equality, the yogi should take refuge in meditation. Without achieving equality, meditation becomes a mockery of the self. This is because true meditation cannot be achieved without equality.
**Explanation:** The yogi firmly establishes equality in their mind and then enters meditation. The importance of meditation will be discussed later. Although meditation and equality are essentially the same, a specific type of equality is called meditation. This type of equality is achieved through constant practice. If meditation is attempted without the equality achieved through practices like contemplation, the self is mocked. Therefore, a person who has not controlled their senses, purified their mind, overcome attachment and aversion, developed non-attachment, or practiced equality, and who engages in meditation based on tradition alone, will fall from the path of both worlds. Therefore, proper meditation avoids mocking the self and is beneficial for the soul.
**Verse 113:**
**Meaning:** Liberation (mokṣa) arises from the destruction of karma, which in turn arises from self-knowledge. There is no doubt about this. Self-knowledge is achieved through meditation. Renunciation of worldly pursuits and immersion in the true nature of the self, both are achieved through meditation. Therefore, meditation is considered beneficial for the soul.
**Explanation:** This verse addresses the question of whether equality or meditation is more important. It clarifies that both are equally important and inseparable.
**Verse 114:**
**Meaning and Explanation:** Meditation cannot exist without equality, and equality cannot be achieved without meditation. Therefore, both are mutually dependent and essential for achieving a state of freedom from suffering.