THE EIGHT POWERS Eight powers are specially mentioned as being developed through raj yoga. At first they might seem like eight qualities, but the word ‘power’ has been used, in the context, for a particular reason. What is the difference between a quality and power? A quality is something which other can sometimes see in us, but it is also sometimes hidden. It is something which other appreciates, but do not necessarily feel that they can possess. A power is something that cannot remain hidden; it is a constant source of inspiration to others so that too can change themselves and become powerful. The eight powers are: TOLERANCE, COURAGE, CO-OPERATION, ACCOMMODATION, DISCRIMINATION, JUDGEMENT, and the power s to withdraw thoughts and to pack up waste (mundane) thoughts. It is important not just to know what these powers are, but it is even more important to understand when and how to use them. For instance, if I am constantly tolerating someone’s bad behavior and the situation is getting steadily worse, perhaps I should really be using the power to face, that is, to have courage, and say, in a peaceful but firm way, that such behavior is not acceptable. The eights power are such that in any situation there will be at least one power that is appropriate for my use. The correct choice of that power will depend on my remaining clam and having a clear picture in question. 1. The power to tolerate difficulties involves the ability to go beyond the influence of negative situation, to be able to react, even in thoughts. If someone offers me insults, criticism or anger, or if there is physical sufferings, with the power to tolerate I can remain peaceful and happy. On the basis of soul-consciousness, I will be able to love, like the tree which, when pelted with sticks and stones, gives its fruits in return. 2. The power to face obstacles in life (courage) is developed by meditation, through which I experience my original nature of peace and become detached from the consciousness of the physical costume. I am then able to observe and see beyond problems and difficulties, to discover a positive side to something which seems totally negative; this gives me strength to face. 3. The power to accommodate is the power to be above my clash of personality or nature, to be able to mould and adjust myself, as the situation requires. I should not be one to create conflict in any situation. Just an ocean can accommodate all the rivers flowing into it, so I should not reject anyone or anything. Instead, I am able to change relationships and circumstances through the power of good wishes. 4. The power to co-operate with others requires the vision of soul consciousness, with which I can see all my brothers and sisters. This attitude of brotherly vision creates unity and strength within a group. This power of co-operation will make any task seems easy. 5. The power to discriminate is the ability to give the correct values to the thoughts, words and actions of myself and others. Just as the jeweler can false from real diamonds, so I should be able to keep positive, worthwhile thoughts and discard negative, harmful ones. It is the negative thoughts which often cloud true discrimination and I am eliminating these through meditation. 6. The power to judge allows me to take clear, quick, accurate and unbiased decisions. For this I need to be above the influence of the situation and the emotion and opinion of others. I also need a clear understanding of what is right and wrong. Raja yoga meditation provides this strength and clarity of the intellect through greater self-understanding and a detached perspective. 7. The power to pack up waste (mundane) thoughts in soul-consciousness means that I can ‘travel light’, packing only that which is necessary. Not carrying around negative and wasteful thoughts keeps me free from both mental and physical tiredness. This economy brings power and a completely positive outlook. 8. The power to withdraw my thoughts is possible, even while I perform activity. Naturally my thoughts must also be involved but, during any task, I can withdraw every so often and practice returning to my state of my inner peace. In this way my thoughts do not continue to be involved when not absolutely necessary and I waste no mental effort. This is true controlling power which brings great strength to the soul. These eight powers become more and more effective in my life as I became expert in applying them to situations, as required.
Posted on: Sun, 16 Jun 2013 05:10:50 +0000
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