Lessons in Raja Yoga : Raja Yoga, Real Self-Realization, Mental Discipline, and Expansion of Consciousness

✨ Lessons in Raja Yoga: Real Self-Realization, Mental Discipline, and Expansion of Consciousness ✨

"_When the soul sees itself as a Center surrounded by its circumference--when the Sun knows that it is a Sun, surrounded by its whirling planets-then is it ready for the Wisdom and Power of the Masters_.

The Raja Yoga lessons provide a guide to understanding and controlling the mind in order to realize the true Self. It introduces concepts such as the nature of the "I," the ego's mental tools, and the expansion of consciousness to a universal level. The text emphasizes the importance of mental discipline, attention, and perception in achieving self-mastery. It details exercises to cultivate these qualities, distinguish the Self from the mind's various components, and build character through subconscious influences. Furthermore, the document explores the relationship between the individual and the universal Self, stressing the power of thought and mental imagery. Ultimately, the lessons aim to empower individuals to use their minds effectively and to harness their latent spiritual potential.

 Okay, here's a briefing document summarizing the main themes and ideas from the provided excerpts from "Raja Yoga":

Raja Yoga: Briefing Document

This document summarizes the key concepts presented in the provided excerpts from a text on Raja Yoga. The core focus is on understanding and mastering the "I" (the Real Self), differentiating it from the "not-I" (the body, mind, emotions, etc.), and realizing its connection to the Universal Self. This understanding forms the foundation for mental control, self-development, and ultimately, a more fulfilling life.

I. The "I" and Self-Realization

·         Central Theme: The cornerstone of Raja Yoga is the realization and understanding of the Real Self, the "I." This is not merely an intellectual understanding, but a deep, experiential consciousness of one's true identity.

·         Initiation: The text highlights that candidates for Raja Yoga initiation are first given lessons focused on the "I." Further instruction is withheld until the candidate grasps the nature of the Real Self.

·         Two Degrees of Awareness:Consciousness of the "I": The understanding of oneself as a real entity, existing independently of the physical body, with life continuing beyond bodily destruction. "The first, which they call 'the Consciousness of the 'I',' is the full consciousness of real existence that comes to the Candidate, and which causes him to know that he is a real entity having a life not depending upon the body"

·         Consciousness of the "I AM": Recognition of one's identity with the Universal Life.

·         Importance of Feeling vs. Intellect: The Yogi Masters demand that students "feel the truth of the same--must become aware of the Real Self". Intellectual understanding alone is insufficient.

·         "I" as a Centre: The candidate must realize the "I" as a centre of Consciousness, Power, Influence and Thought around which their world revolves. "Let the Candidate...form in his mind the idea of himself as a real thing--an actual being--an individual entity--a Sun around which revolves the world."

·         Eternal Nature of the "I": The text emphasizes the "I" is eternal and unchanging even as it goes through various states of experience and development. "The 'I' of you cannot be wiped out. It is eternal, and will go on, and on, and on, to higher and higher states--but it always will be the same 'I'."

·         Distinguishing the "I" from the Body: A key step is recognizing the "I" as separate from the physical body, which is seen as a temporary covering or instrument. "Place yourself in the State of Meditation, and think of YOURSELF--the Real "I"--as being independent of the body, but using the body as a covering and an instrument."

II. Mental Control and the "Not-I"

·         Differentiating the "I" from the "Not-I": A significant portion of the text focuses on distinguishing the "I" from everything that it is not, including sensations, emotions, intellect, and even spiritual experiences. "We wish to call your attention to several mental impressions or conditions, one after another, in order that you may realize that they are merely something incident to you, and not YOU yourself... You cannot set the 'I' aside and so consider it, but the various forms of the 'not I' may be so set aside and considered."

·         Mental Drill: The text provides a "Mental Drill" designed to help candidates identify and separate the "I" from these "not-I" elements.

·         Sensations and Emotions: Sensations like hunger, thirst, and emotions like anger, hate, and even love are considered transient incidents that are not integral to the Real Self.

·         Intellect and Spiritual Mind: Even intellectual processes and experiences from the "Spiritual Mind" are viewed as tools or instruments of the "I," not the "I" itself.

·         Will as Master: Ultimately, the goal is to recognize the "I" as the master of the mind, capable of directing and controlling thoughts, emotions, and actions. "You must realize that in every mental effort You--the "I"--are behind it. You bid the Mind work, and it obeys your Will. You are the Master, and not the slave of your mind."

·         Killing Thoughts: The power to expel unwanted thoughts is considered essential. "It is one of the most prominent doctrines of Raja Yoga that the power of expelling thoughts, or if need be, killing them dead on the spot, must be attained."

III. Techniques and Practices

·         Meditation: A quiet place is needed for meditation, and one should focus on one's Real Self, shutting out distracting thoughts. Relaxing the muscles will allow "perfect peace and restful calm".

·         Concentration: The text emphasizes the importance of concentration in Raja Yoga.

·         Mantram (Affirmation): The text also gives mantras or affirmations to help the candidate further develop their awareness, will, and attention.

·         Pratyahara (Introspection): The art of turning the mind inward.

·         Dharana (Concentration): Focusing the mind on a single subject or object.

·         The Expansion of the Self: The excerpts also touch on the relationship of the "I" to the Universal "I," emphasizing "The Oneness of All."

IV. Cultivation of Attention and Perception

·         Attention as Key: The excerpts stress the crucial role of attention in developing will-power, concentration, and perception. The word "Attention" is derived from two Latin words, ad tendere, meaning "to stretch towards"

·         Exercises for Developing Attention: The text includes exercises like:

·         Detailed observation of an object (e.g., a pencil).

·         Quick observation of a room and subsequent recall.

·         Sharpening Perception: The Yogis have always stressed sharpening the mind, and see it as very different than being a slave to one's senses.

·         Improving the Senses: The sense of Touch can be developed if the student remembers that "Attention is the key to success".

V. The Subconscious Mind

·         The Unconscious Mind: The text states that over 90% of mental operations occur outside of conscious awareness. The cultivation and training of this unconscious mind is vital.

·         "Mental Brownies": The yogis liken training the unconscious mind as to establishing a clan of "Mental Brownies" that are willing to help in achieving one's goals.

VI. Character Building

·         Habit is Key: Character is largely made up of habits, therefore, cultivating the desired habits will mold and modify one's character.

·         Mental Image: The mental image is at the center of the habit. The habit is created around the image.

VII. Influences

·         Recognize the Truth: One should recognize one's influence over all that is around them, and not to be unduly influenced by outside forces.

·         Word Images: Use them to build yourself up mentally.

Overall Theme:

The excerpts from "Raja Yoga" provide a practical guide to self-discovery and mental mastery. By understanding the nature of the "I," learning to control the mind, and cultivating attention and will-power, the candidate can unlock their potential and live a more authentic and fulfilling life. The emphasis on experiential realization, rather than mere intellectual assent, underscores the transformative nature of Raja Yoga.

 I. Short Answer Quiz

Answer each question in 2-3 sentences.

1.       According to the Yogi Masters, what two conditions must candidates meet before receiving further instruction in Raja Yoga?

2.       What are the two degrees of awakening consciousness of the Real Self, as taught by the Yogi Masters?

3.       Describe the "State of Meditation" as detailed in Lesson I.

4.       Explain the analogy used to describe the relationship between the "I" and the body.

5.       What are some examples of emotions that are considered "not I" in Lesson II?

6.       What is the relationship between Chitta and Vritta?

7.       What are the three mental planes that make up the "mind" of a person, according to the text?

8.       Describe the Pratyahara exercise in Lesson IV.

9.       What is the first step towards mental control, according to Raja Yoga?

10.   According to the text, what should the Candidate do when they find themselves subject to adverse or depressing influences?

II. Answer Key

1.       Candidates must master the instruction regarding the nature of the Real Self and develop the consciousness and realization of the real "I" within them. They need to awaken to a conscious realization of their Actual Identity to understand their power and feel the power of the Will.

2.       The first degree is "the Consciousness of the 'I'," which is the full consciousness of real existence, knowing oneself as a real entity with a life not depending on the body. The second degree is "the Consciousness of the 'I AM'," which is the consciousness of one's identity with the Universal Life.

3.       The State of Meditation involves retiring to a quiet place, relaxing the muscles, and calming the mind. The goal is to abstract oneself from distracting impressions and be alone with the Real Self, allowing a feeling of perfect peace and restful calm to permeate every particle of one's being.

4.       The "I" is independent of the body, but uses it as a covering and an instrument, similar to a suit of clothes. The "I" can leave the body and still remain the same, mastering and controlling it for its own advantage.

5.       Examples of emotions considered "not I" include anger, hate, love (in its ordinary forms), jealousy, and ambition, all of which can be set aside and studied. Being able to examine these emotions proves they are separate from the "I."

6.       Chitta refers to Mind-substance, the Universal Mind Principle, while Vritta refers to a wave in the Chitta, which is a combination of Mind and Energy. In essence, Vritta is akin to what we call a thought, or "mind in action," while Chitta is "mind in repose."

7.       The three mental planes are the Instinctive Mind, the Intellect, and the Spiritual Mind. These planes, clustered around the "I," form the "soul" of the individual.

8.       The Pratyahara exercise involves placing oneself in a comfortable position free from distractions and allowing the mind to run along for a while. When calmed, one should fix the thought on "I Am," picturing the "I" as independent of the body and mind.

9.       The first step toward mental control in Raja Yoga is Pratyahara, the art of making the mind introspective or turned inward upon itself. This involves turning the mind from going outward and gradually directing it inward upon its inner nature.

10.   When subject to adverse influences, the Candidate should stand up boldly and deny the influence. Saying, "I DENY the power or influence of persons, circumstances, or things to adversely affect me. I ASSERT my Reality, Power and Dominion over these things," can act as a mighty force.

III. Essay Questions

1.       Discuss the importance of understanding the "I" as a Centre of Consciousness, Thought, Power, and Influence, according to the teachings of Raja Yoga. How does this realization affect one's ability to manifest these qualities?

2.       Compare and contrast the two meanings of the word "Mind" as used by the Yogis. Explain how understanding these distinctions is crucial for mastering the Science of Raja Yoga.

3.       Describe the process of "Mental Drill" outlined in Lesson II. Explain the significance of distinguishing between the "I" and the "not I" and how this practice contributes to mental mastery.

4.       Discuss the role of Attention in Raja Yoga. How can attention be cultivated?

5.       Explain the importance of cultivating a "Mental Image" in the sub-conscious mind in order to mold and modify character and establish habits, according to Lesson XI.

IV. Glossary of Key Terms

·         I: The Real Self; the Divine Spark; the eternal, unchanging essence of an individual, independent of the body and mind.

·         I AM: The consciousness of one's identity with the Universal Life.

·         Ego: The individual self or "I."

·         Raja Yoga: The science of controlling the mind through Will, concentration, and meditation, aiming to realize the true nature of the "I."

·         Yogi: A practitioner of Yoga, especially Raja Yoga.

·         Yogi Masters: Experienced and enlightened teachers of Raja Yoga.

·         Candidate: An individual seeking initiation and instruction in Raja Yoga.

·         Chitta: Mind-substance; the Universal Mind Principle; the material from which personal minds are obtained.

·         Vritta: A wave in the Chitta; a whirlpool or eddy in the mind; akin to a thought; mind in action.

·         Pratyahara: The art of making the mind introspective or turned inward upon itself.

·         Dharana: Concentration; the mind focusing on a specific subject or object and being held there for a period of time.

·         Mantram: An affirmation; a word or phrase repeated to focus the mind and affirm a desired state.

·         Attention: The active self-direction of the mind to any object; the stretching of the mind towards something.

·         Perception: The process of becoming aware of something through the senses.

·         Will: The manifestation of the "I"; the power used to manipulate, guide, govern, and direct the mind.

·         Chela: A student or disciple of a guru or teacher.

·         Guru: A teacher, especially in spiritual traditions.

·         Maya: Illusion.

 

1. What is the core principle of Raja Yoga, and how does it differ from simply having an intellectual understanding of it?

The core principle of Raja Yoga revolves around realizing the true "I" or Self and mastering the mind. It's not enough to merely grasp this concept intellectually; one must feel the truth, become aware of the Real Self, and integrate this realization into everyday consciousness so that all thoughts and actions revolve around it. This goes beyond intellectual understanding and requires a conscious awakening to one's Actual Identity.

2. What is the "State of Meditation" and why is it important in Raja Yoga?

The State of Meditation involves finding a quiet, undisturbed space to relax the body and calm the mind, freeing oneself from distractions and entering into communion with the Real Self. This state is crucial for practicing meditation and concentration more effectively. It allows the candidate to become alone with the Real Self and focus on its Individual Self. It is crucial to develop mastery over the Will and be able to produce this state deliberately, at the proper times.

3. How does Raja Yoga distinguish between the "I" and the "not I," and what are some examples of the "not I"?

Raja Yoga emphasizes differentiating the true "I" from everything else, which are considered "not I." The "not I" includes sensations of the body (hunger, thirst, pain), emotions (anger, hate, love, jealousy), intellectual processes, and even spiritual experiences. The key is to recognize that one can set these things aside and examine them, which proves they are not the essential Self. The "I" is the constant observer and experiencer, separate from the changing contents of the mind and body.

4. How does Raja Yoga view the relationship between the "I" and the body?

Raja Yoga views the body as a tool or instrument used by the "I," rather than an integral part of the Real Self. The "I" is independent of the body and capable of existing without it. The body is merely a shell or covering inhabited and controlled by the Ego, composed of constantly changing atoms and cells.

5. How can one cultivate attention, and why is attention so important in Raja Yoga?

Cultivating attention involves consciously directing and focusing the mind on a specific object or idea. This can be practiced through exercises like observing objects in detail, recalling details of a room after a quick glance, or mentally adding numbers. Attention is crucial in Raja Yoga because it lies at the base of Will-power. A trained will exhibits itself in a tenacious attention. Cultivation of one makes easy the exercise of the other.

6. What is the role of the Will in Raja Yoga, and how can it be strengthened?

The Will, in Raja Yoga, is the instrument of the "I," and it should be used to master the mind. One can strengthen the Will by developing the ability to focus attention, consciously choosing thoughts, and performing actions that may be unpleasant. This may be achieved through practice and exercise, and the mind will be obedient to the Will. It can also be strengthened by denying external influences.

7. What are the mental planes described in Raja Yoga, and how do they operate?

Raja Yoga describes several mental planes operating outside conscious awareness. These include the atomic plane, the vegetative plane (responsible for bodily functions), the instinctive mind (related to animalistic urges), the intellectual mind (involved in reasoning), and the spiritual mind. Most mental activity happens outside of the field of consciousness, so the mind's various planes play an important role in how the "I" experiences the world.

8. How does Raja Yoga approach character building and the formation of new habits?

Character building, according to Raja Yoga, involves consciously forming and reinforcing desirable habits. This can be achieved by first planting the seed and cultivating strong desires and faith in the chosen goal. Then create a clear mental image of the desired character trait, and begin to build around it. Think over and act out the chosen character trait over and over again in your imagination. In this way, a person will develop a new mental habit. Then, this character trait will be naturally expressed under real-world circumstances.