World of Philosophy

Author(s): Christopher Key Chapple, Intaj Malek, Dilip Charan, Sunanda Shastri, Prashant Dave
Publisher: Shanti Prakashan

Page 964

faced with a calm and clear mind, problems can be successfully resolved. When instead, we lose control over our minds through hatred, selfishness, jealousy and anger, we lose our sense of judgment, our minds are blinded and at those wild moments anything can happen, including war. Thus, the practice of moral precepts, such as non-violence etc. is useful to all. They are meant for perfecting the functions of mind, body and speech. Patanjali 's teachings indicate unequivocally that a fundamentally moral life is necessary pre-requisite for ridding our minds of negative thoughts, emotions for transforming them in to selfless compassion for all. We can rid of our minds of those strong negative emotions that cause turbidity in our minds by developing opposite emotions (Yogasutra. II. 34). This path consists of the practice of giving as an antidote to desire, greed, anger etc. The practice of patience as an antidote for anger, kindness to hate etc. Yoga shows the necessity of controlling the undisciplined mind that harbors selfishness and other roots of trouble and teaches a path of spiritual state that is peaceful, disciplined, ethical and wise.
The Patanjali's teachings clearly indicate that by constantly being mindful of our own thoughts, word and deeds and by constantly trying to purify them; we can become part of the force of peace rather than part of the force of war.
Those of us who value peace and cooperation and who seek the spiritual growth available through Yoga can positively influence others. This influence is both through our own example and by offering Yogic tools that are useful to them. We must demonstrate the value of Yoga and then only we can offer it to others to take advantage of it.
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