A Critical Comparison of Samadhi as Presented in Patanjali Yoga and Hatha Yoga Texts

Critical Comparison of Samadhi as Presented in Patanjal Yoga and Hatha Yoga Texts

Abstract

Samadhi is the highest state of yoga in which the practitioner, having reached the pinnacle of meditation, transcends his aham, senses and personal existence and realized the soul. This article compares the concept of samadhi described in the Patanjali yoga sutras and the hatha yoga texts. Hatha yoga texts such as the hatha yoga, gheranda Samhita, vasishtha Samhita, shiva Samhita, and the siddha siddhanta paddhati are included. The above mentioned hatha yoga texts describe the concept of samadhi in different ways. The relationship between hatha yoga and raja yoga has also been shown. However according to all authors, samadhi is a state that every human being can attain. By exploring the similarities and differences in these texts, it becomes clear that while various traditions have approached samadhi through different perspectives, there is an underlying unity in the fundamental principles that guide its attainment. This comparative study the reveals the complex interrelationship between the conceptual and practical dimensions of samadhi, which reflects the diversity of human experiences and realms.