Tada Drashtuh Svarupe Avasthanam (Yoga Sutra 1.3)
तदा द्रष्टुः स्वरूपेऽवस्थानम् in English · English
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✦ Meaning
This is the third aphorism of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, completing the definition of yoga begun in 1.2. When the modifications of the mind are stilled, the seer — pure consciousness, the Purusha — rests in its own true nature, no longer mistaking itself for the changing states of mind. This is the fruit of yoga: Self-realization.
Origin & Story
Patanjali Yoga Sutras 1.3 · Patanjali · Classical (c. 2nd century BCE – 4th century CE)
This is the third aphorism of the Samadhi Pada in Maharshi Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Following the definition of yoga as the stilling of the mind (1.2), Patanjali states its fruit: the seer abides in its own true nature. This single line points to the ultimate aim of all yogic practice — the realization of pure consciousness, free from the disturbances of the mind.
✦ As told in scripture
Adepts of yoga describe that in the deepest stillness, when not a single ripple disturbs the mind, awareness suddenly rests in itself — luminous, peaceful and free — knowing itself as the eternal witness rather than the passing thoughts it once mistook for itself.
The Mantra
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Tada drashtuh svarupe'vasthanam || 1.3 || (pada-patha — tada drashtuh svarupe avasthanam)
Meaning:Then the seer (the Self) abides in its own essential nature.
Word-by-Word Meaning
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Benefits of Chanting तदा द्रष्टुः स्वरूपेऽवस्थानम्
Reveals the goal and fruit of yoga — the Self resting in its own nature when the mind grows still.
Completes the classical definition of yoga (with sutra 1.2), forming the philosophical heart of Patanjali's system.
A profound contemplation that turns awareness back upon itself, toward the witnessing consciousness.
Cultivates detachment from the fluctuations of mind and identification with the changeless Self.
Brings deep peace, inner stillness and the experience of being the silent witness.
Studied and recited by yogis as the very aim of meditation and Raja Yoga.
How to Chant तदा द्रष्टुः स्वरूपेऽवस्थानम्
Recite this sutra together with 1.2, allowing the meaning to unfold: when thought-waves are stilled, the seer rests in its own nature. Then sit silently and turn attention to the one who is aware — the witness behind all thought. It is a direct pointer for meditation, best held in silence rather than repeated aloud.
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Read the full तदा द्रष्टुः स्वरूपेऽवस्थानम् with verse-by-verse meaning, or explore more sacred texts