Introduction
The Patanjaliyogasutra (PYS), a seminal text of Samkhya philosophy and yoga theory, details the methodology and effects of a psycho-physical discipline and its practice. Recent scientific research has validated the beneficial and healing effects of yoga; however, the “supernatural” or “paranormal” powers (siddhis) described in the third section (vibhutipada) of the sutra are still widely regarded as fictitious from a scientific perspective.
The Vibhutipada
This section describes the extraordinary abilities that may be attained through the advanced stages of yoga practice: dharana, dhyana, and samadhi. These conditions transcend the ordinary constraints of perception, allowing the adept to manifest powers such as:
* Universal knowledge (prajnaloka)
* Liberation from the world of objects, time, and states of being (dharmaparinama)
* Cognition of the past and future (parinamatraya)
* Communication with all creatures (sarvabhutarutajnana)
* Knowledge of past lives (purvajatijananam)
* Mind-reading (paracittajnanam)
* Invisibility (aparantajnanam)
* Immense physical and mental strength (maitryadisubalani)
* Perception of subtle, concealed beings (suksmaviprahitaviprakrstajnanam)
* Freedom from hunger and thirst (kanthakupa)
* Seeing and interacting with realized beings (siddhadarsanam)
* Intuition (pratibha)
* Extra-sensory perception (sutra 36)
* Entering and inhabiting another body (sutra 38)
* Levitation (udana)
* Imperviousness to cold (samana)
* Weightlessness and instantaneous space travel (akasagamanam)
* Mastery over the physical elements and beings (bhutajayah)
* Shrinking the body (minadipradurbhavahkayasampatdharanabligatsca)
* Diamond-like physical resistance (balavajrawhich)
* Mastery over matter (pradhanajayawhich)
Science and the Supernatural
While these abilities may have been dismissed as fantasy in the past, recent scientific research is shedding light on their potential validity or plausibility. For example, studies by the Stanford Research Institute and the US Defense Intelligence Agency have investigated remote viewing, invisibility cloaking, and mind-reading. Other research has explored the power of consciousness to modify perception and reality, as demonstrated by hypnosis and related phenomena.
The Goal of Kaivalya
Ultimately, the goal of yoga practice is not the acquisition of supernatural powers but the attainment of kaivalya, a state of detachment and sovereignty of the true self. This state transcends both material and psychic attachments, leading to a deeper understanding and experience of reality.
Conclusion
The powers described in the PYS represent a fascinating and thought-provoking challenge to scientific knowledge. While further research is needed to fully understand their nature and origins, modern science is increasingly recognizing the central role of consciousness and the potential for humans to transcend perceived limitations. The PYS offers a framework for harnessing our inner powers and achieving a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.
