Hatha Yoga Pradipika

The First Teaching

Remembering Holy Shiva

Verse 1 For Sadhakas expecting to mount to the most high Raja Yoga, this wisdom-filled Hatha
Yoga which is like a shining staircase, is given by lord Adinatha; to this Adinatha, reverence!

Verse 2 I, Svatmarama Yogi, having bowed to my Nathaguru, am giving instruction in Hatha

Yoga only for the attainment of Raja Yoga.

Verse 3 For those who, due to the darkness of countless doctrines, do not know Raja Yoga,
Compassionate Yogi Svatmarama holds this burning lamp in the form of Hatha Pradipika.

Verse 4 The royal Yogi, Matsyendra Natha, the great Yogi, Goraksha Natha, and others knew
this excellent practice of Hatha Yoga, through their grace, Svatmarama Yogi also knows this
teaching.

Former Sadhana Teachers

Verse 5 - 9 Reverend Adinatha, Matsendra Natha, Shabara Natha, Ananda Bhairava Natha,
Chaurangi Natha, Mina Natha, Goraksha Natha, Virupaksha Natha, Vileshaya Natha, Yogi
Manthana Natha, Bhairava Natha, Siddha Natha, Buddha Natha, Kanthadi Natha, Korantaka
Natha, Surananda Natha, Siddhapada Natha, Charpati Natha, Kaneri Natha, Pujyapada Natha,
Nitya Natha, Niranjana Natha, Kapali Natha, Bindu Natha, Kaka chandishavara Natha, Allama
Natha, Prabhudeva Natha, Dhoda Natha, Choli Natha, Tintini Natha, Bhanuki Natha, Naradeva
Natha, Khanda Natha, Kapalika Natha, etc. are great adepts, who having completed their
sadhana and overcome death, roam the whole of creation.

The Two Aspects of Hatha Yoga- Hut (Matha) and Tortoise (Kamatha)
Verse 10 For people being burned by the three types of afflictions (spiritual afflictions, physical
afflictions, and worldly afflictions), Hatha Yoga is the best place of refuge; and for Sadhakas
engaged in any kind of Yoga, it is a foundation like a tortoise.

Hatha Yoga Should Be Kept Secret

Verse 11 A Yogi with aspiration for success must keep this Hatha Yoga very secret indeed, for
unrevealed learning becomes potent and disclosed learning becomes impotent.

Suitable Region and Residence

Verse 12 In a place free of people, within a well-ruled region where food is easily obtained,
disturbance-free, and righteous; there to the measure of a bow's length, where there are no rocks,
fire or water; there the Hatha Yogi, having constructed a simple hut, should reside.

Characteristics of a Yoga Residence

Verse 13 Accomplished masters of Hatha Yoga have given this description of a Yoga residence:
It should have a small door, no windows or leaks, neither too high nor low, with an even floor,
well-smeared with cow-dung, free from insects. It should be adorned outside with a porch and a
well, and protected by a wall.

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 Instruction
Verse 14 Having taken residence in such a place, the Sadhaka, being free from concerns, must
unceasingly perform Yoga thorough committed practice according to the path directed by his
Guru.

The Six Enemies

Verse 15 Overeating, overexertion, talkativeness, stubborn persistence regarding disciplines, the
company of people, and unsteadiness; through these six faults Yoga is lost.

The Six Friends

Verse 16 With enthusiasm, boldness, constancy, discrimination, unshakable faith, and
abandonment of the company of people, Yoga is accomplished in the highest way.

Asana (posture)
Verse 17 The first part of Hatha teaching is Asana, so it is spoken of first of all. By means of its
practice the practitioner receives steadiness, freedom from disease, and lightness of limbs.

Remarks of Previous Sadhana Teachers

Verse 18 Vasishtha and other wise men, and Matsyendra Natha and other Yogis have approved
certain Asanas. I too having approved certain Asanas, describe them.

Svastikasana
Verse 19 When the Sadhaka, having properly placed the soles of both feet between the thighs
and the calves, is well-seated, the chief Yogis call it the Asana of the Swastika.

Gomukhasana
Verse 20 To place the ankle of the right foot under the left buttock and the ankle of the left foot
under the right buttock; this Asana with a resemblance to the shape of a cow’s face is called
Gomukasana.
Virasana
Verse 21 To firmly place one foot on its opposite thigh and the other foot on it’s opposite thigh;
this is called ‘the virile posture’.

Kurmasana
Verse 22 By reversing the foot (turning it outward), thus pressing the buttocks with the two ankle
bones, to sit in the highest way, this is called ‘tortoise posture’ by the Yogis.

Kukkutasana
Verse 23 Sitting in Padmaasana and slipping both hands in between the calves and the thighs, to
place them firmly on the ground and then to raise the body upward, this is called ‘cock posture’.

Uttana Kurmakasana
Verse 24 The Sadhaka, after binding himself in cock posture, bringing both feet to the chest, and
then grasping the neck with both hands, remains sitting like an upturned tortoise; this is called
‘Uttana Kurmakasana’.

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 Dhanurasana
Verse 25 Grasping the big toes of both feet with both hands, to take one foot up to the ear, like
drawing a bow; this is called ‘bow posture’.

Matsyendrasana
Verse 26 The right foot being placed at the base of the left thigh and left foot being brought to
the outer side of the right knee, when the body is twisted in the opposite direction, this is the
Asana described by the royal Yogi Matsyendra Natha.

The Revealed Result of Matsyendrasana

Verse 27 This Matsyendrasana lights the fire of the belly. Like a sharp-pointed weapon, it
massacres the aggregate of disease and it makes steady the Sadhaka’s moon. By its practice, the
Kundalini Shakti is aroused.

Pashchimatanasana
Verse 28 Stretching out both feet like a staff and grasping one’s big toes with both hands,
placing the forehead on the knees and remaining in that state, this is called ‘back stretch posture.’

Verse 29 This foremost Pashchimatanasana, having been accomplished, makes the Prana a
traveler on the middle path, ignites the fire in the belly and, having made the abdomen lean,
renders the Sadhaka disease free.

Mayurasana
Verse 30 Taking the support of the earth with both hands, and placing the two elbows along side
the two sides of the navel, that Asana is raised up high from the earth like a stick it is called
‘peacock posture.’

Result of Mayurasana
Verse 31 This Mayurasana rapidly destroys all diseases of the glands, abdomen, etc.; it defeats
even the impurities of the humors of wind, bile etc.; it completely digests all stale, dirty,
indiscriminate food eaten; not only that, but also, stimulating the fire in the belly, it digests even
the Kalakuta poison.

Shavasana
Verse 32 To lie out straight on the earth like a corpse, this is corpse pose. This Asana is the
reliever of fatigue and the bringer of peace to the Chitta.

Verse 33 Beloved lord Shiva has described eighty-four Asanas, but taking only four from among
them I tell about them.

The Four Highest Asanas

Verse 34 Siddhasana, Padmasana, Simhasana, and Bhadrasana- these four Asanas are the very
highest, and of them, one should be ever steady in the pleasure-giving Siddhasana.

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Verse 35 Firmly blocking the perineum with the heel, install the other heel against the Linga.
After that, having the chin pressed motionlessly against the chest and having mastery over the
organs, sit very steadily. Finally, one should look with a steady gaze toward the middle part of
the brow. The opener of the door of the path of liberation, this Asana is called ‘posture of the
adepts.’

Verse 36 According to others, placing the heel above the Linga, and the other on top of that is
Siddhasana.

Verse 37 This Asana some Yogis call ‘Siddhasana,” some Yogis ‘Vajrasana,’ some Yogis
‘Muktasana,’ some Yogis ‘Guptasana.’

Praise of Siddhasana
Verses 38 - 43 Just as Siddha Yogis consider moderation in diet to be foremost among the Yamas
and non-violence chief among the Niyamas, so they consider, among all of the Asanas,
Siddhasana to be the chief. Thus it is advisable that among the 84 Asanas the Sadhaka seeking
liberation practice siddhasana, because it cleanses the impurities of the 72,000 Nadis. If the Yogi
meditating on Atman and eating moderately does repeated practice of siddhasana for twelve
years continuously, he obtains the Yogic powers. After siddhasana, what is the use of other
Asanas? When with alertness the restrained Prana is transformed into Kevala Kumbhaka, and
the Unmani stage is effortlessly generated of its own accord? When in this way only siddhasana
is accomplished, then Tribandha also is born in a natural way? There is no Asana like
Siddhasana, no Kumbhaka like Kevala Kumbhaka, no Mudra like Khechari Mudra, and no Laya
like Nada.

Padmasana
Verse 44 Placing the right foot on the left thigh and the left foot on the right thigh, holding the
two big toes with the two opposite hands placed round the back, lodging the chin on the chest,
and gazing unblinking at the tip of the nose, this destroyer of the diseases of the Samyami is
called 'lotus posture.'

Padmasana and Another Tenet

Verse 45 - 47 Placing both feet, soles up, with special attention on the thighs; placing both
hands, palms up, between them; fix the attention on the tip of the nose. Pressing the two front
teeth with the tongue, lodging the chin on the chest, thus little by little attracting the Prana
upward, the Asana so formed is said to be the destroyer of all diseases. A posture such as this
difficult-to-achieve padmasana can only be received by someone of rare understanding.

Knowledge Generation and Padmasana

Verse 48 Sitting in Padmasana, pressing the chin on the chest and joining the two cupped palms,
the Sadhaka meditating on the adored one, time and again attracting the Apana upwards and
directing the Prana downwards, by the power of Shakti gets incomparable knowledge.

The Characteristics of a Liberated Yogi

Verse 49 The Yogi sitting in Padmasana who makes the Vayu drawn in through the Nadi
completely steady in the brain, he is liberated; in this there is not a trace of doubt.

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 Simhasana
Verses 50 to 52 Place both heels behind the scrotum on both sides of the perineum left heel on
the right side and right heel on the left side. After that, installing the two hands on the two knees,
spreading the fingers and opening the mouth, extrude the tongue as far as possible and with one-
pointed Chitta keep looking at the tip of the nose. This highest lion pose, most valued by Yogis,
accomplishes Tribandha.

Bhadrasana
Verses 53 - 54 Place the two heels below the scrotum on both sides of the perineum- left heel on
the left side and right heel on the right side. After that, holding the two feet very firmly with both
hands. This is Bhadrasana, destroyer of all diseases; Siddha Yogis call this 'Gorakshasana.'

Sadhana of Hatha Yoga

Verses 55 – 57 Thus, being free of fatigue in practicing Asanas, the chief of Yogis should
repeatedly practice Nadi purification, Mudras, Kriyas and Pranayama. The practice of Hatha
Yoga is in this order; Asana, Kumbhaka, Mudra, and Nadanusandhana.

The Time Limit

Verse 58 A Brahmachari, who takes measured food, who has renounced, and who has Yoga as
his last resort, becomes a siddha in one year, in this there is no room for doubt.

Wholesome, Measured Food

Verse 59 That tasty, sweet food, with one-fourth portion left empty, taken to please Shiva, is
indeed Mitahara or Yuktahara (appropriate food).

Unsuitable Food
Verses 60 to 61 Yogis consider the following foods to be unsuitable; bitter, sour, pungent, salty,
and hot foodstuffs; unripe vegetables; fermented barley grain; oil; sesame; mustard; intoxicating
drink; fish; meat of goat and other animals; curdled milk; buttermilk; broad bean; jujube; oil
cakes; asafoetida; garlic; etc. Food which is heated a second time, harsh, excessively salty, full of
sourness, bad, is to be abandoned. During the period of repeated practice, the Sadhaka does not
serve the fire, associate with women, go on journeys, etc.

Suitable Food
Verses 62 - 63 Wheat, rice, barley, Shashtika (a kind of quick growing rice), excellent food,
milk, clarified butter, treacle molasses, fresh butter, sugar candy, honey, dry ginger; and the five
leafy vegetables, Mung beans, and crystal clear water are suitable for Yogindras. The Yogi should
take food which is nourishing; sweet; agreeable; combined with milk, etc.; supporting the
Dhatus; desired in the heart; and fit for Yoga.

The Greatness of Repeated Practice

Verses 64 - 66 Even a young, old, very old, ailing, or weak Sadhaka, if he does repeated practice,
without slaking, of the limbs of Yoga he gets success. A Sadhaka having Yoga receives success;
how can an individual without Yoga receive success? Consequently, by only study of the
teachings, success in Yoga is not attained. Nor is wearing the dress of a Yogi or hearing tales
from Yogic teachings the cause of success in Yoga. The cause of success is only repeatedly
practice of Yogic purifying actions, in this there is not the least doubt.

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 The Span of Purifying Action Yoga
Verse 67 Various Asanas, different Kumbhakas, Mudras, and other means beyond reason:
repeated practice of all these Sadhanas of Hatha Yoga should be done until the fruit in the form
of Raja Yoga is attained.

The Second Teaching

Instruction About Pranayama

Verse 1 After Asana practice becomes steady, the Yogi observing Yama and taking wholesome
and measured quantities of food, should correctly practice Pranayama according to his Guru.

The Prana and the Chitta

Verse 2 When the Prana in the body becomes unsteady or tremulous, the Chitta also becomes
unsteady and uncertain. When the Prana becomes steady or still, the Chitta also becomes steady.
Through the still Prana, the Yogi attains steadiness. Therefore, one should restrain the Prana.

Verse 3 So long as the Prana stays in the body, it is called life. Death consists in the passing out
of the Prana. It is, therefore, necessary to restrain the breath.

Verses 4 - 6 As long as the Nadis are full of impurities, Prana is not able to flow through the
middle channel. In that state of impure Nadis, how can there exist the no-Chitta state? When all
the Nadis and chakras, which are full of impurities, are completely cleaned, the Yogi then
becomes able to hold Prana. So thus, with pure intellect one should daily perform the practice of
Pranayama, so that all the impurities that cover the Sushumna Nadi may be completely removed.

The Method of Pranayama

Verses 7 - 9 The Yogi seated in Padmasana should draw in the Prana through the moon Nadi,
and having retained it according to his capacity, should release it through the sun Nadi. Again,
having drawn in the Prana through the sun Nadi. He should inhale to his capacity and hold the
Prana in the abdomen. Then, having systematically and correctly performed that Kumbhaka, he
should release it through the moon Nadi. Through that particular Nadi with which Prana is
released, using that same Nadi having drawn the Prana in again, then retaining it with much
restraint, he should hold and then should release the Prana slowly using the other Nadi. He
should not release forcefully or quickly.

The Intermediate Results of Pranayama

Verses 10 - 11 If one draws in the Prana through the moon Nadi, one should release out the
restrained Prana through the sun Nadi. If the Prana was drawn in by means of the sun Nadi,
then, after the holding, the Prana should be released out by means of the moon Nadi. As a result
of the routine practice of this process, the mass of many Nadis becomes unified within three
months. In the morning, at noon, and in the evening one should offer the practice of such
Kumbhaka, gradually building up to eighty breaths.

The Pranayama of Lower, Middle, and Highest Level

Verse 12 In the lowest Pranayama sweating appears; in the intermediate Pranayama there is a
shudder; in the highest Pranayama there is the attainment of the supreme steadiness; therefore,
The Prana should be correctly restrained.

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Verse 13 - 18 The drops of sweat born of the labor involved in the Pranayama, should be rubbed
on the body. It brings about steadiness and lightness in the body. During the time of practice, a
diet of milk and purified butter is desirable; but, when regular and routine practice is established,
restrictions are not necessary. Just as lions, elephants and tigers etc., are gradually brought under
control; similarly Prana when well restrained and regulated is gradually mastered; otherwise it
destroys the Sadhaka. Through appropriately regulated and correctly restrained practice of
Pranayama, all diseases and ailments are banished. Improper and ill-directed routine practice
will generate diseases. The enraged Prana leads to yawning, coughing, breathing difficulty and
strain, to headache, pain in the eyes and ears and to other ailments and diseases. So, the Sadhaka
should perform Rechaka, Puraka and Kumbhaka with correct method and process. Thus siddhi is
achieved.

Verse 19 - 20 When there is complete cleansing of the Nadis, outward signs are observed.
Among them the lightness and luster of the body are obvious. With the cleansing of the Nadis,
the Prana can be restrained as is desirable. Consequently, there is the increase in the fire in the
abdomen, adequate expression of Nada and freedom from all diseases.

Verse 21 - 23 The Sadhaka with excess fat, mucus, etc. should first do the Shatkarmas, others
should not do them. Dauti, Basti, Neti, Trataka, Nauli, and Kapalabhati, these are called the six
practices. These six practices are secret and render the body pure; not only that, these are
generally respected by the highest Yogis because they lead to unique results.

Dauti Karma
Verse 24 - 25 The Sadhaka, according to the direction of his Guru, should slowly swallow a wet
piece of cloth which is four fingers wide and, should then pull out that piece of wet cloth. This is
called Dauti Karma. As a result of this Dauti Karma, mucus, breathing difficulties, leprosy, and
twenty kinds of disease, which are caused by mucus are undoubtedly done away with.

Basti Karma
Verses 26 - 28 In a squatting position in water up to the navel with a tube inserted into the anus
and contracting the rectum so that water will be sucked inside, the washing of the organ of
excretion is called Basti Karma. A bamboo tube six fingers long is called a Basti. Four finger
length of it is inserted into the anus and two fingers of length should remain outside the anus.
Edema, stomach ailments, gas, excessive heat etc. become impaired by the well-practiced Basti
Karma.

Neti karma
Verse 29 - 30 Great adept people call it Neti in which the Sadhaka pulls out of the mouth a soft
string of the length of one hand after having made it pass through the nostrils. This Neti cleanses
and purifies the head and brain, bestows divine vision on the Sadhaka, and removes all diseases.

Cleaning of the Eyes

Verse 31 - 32 A well composed and completely attentive Sadhaka should, with steady gaze, fix
his eyes on a target until tears are shed. This is called Trataka by Yoga teachers. This Trataka is
the healer of eye diseases, the remover of yawning, etc. It is as secret as a golden jewel box.

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 Nauli Karma
Verse 33 - 34 Having bent the shoulders forward, rotate the abdominal muscles to the right and
left quickly like a whirlpool. This practice is called by the Siddhas, Nauli Karma. Of the six-
actions, the excellent Nauli Karma increases the fire in the belly and removes digestive disorders.
It bestows bliss on the Sadhaka and removes all diseases.

Kapalabhati
Verse 35 - 36 The process of releasing and drawing in breath quickly as a bellows is well known
as Kapalabati. This Kriya is the remover of the ailment of coughing. If, through the six-actions,
the excess weight is gone; and one does Pranayama, the ailments causing cough are eliminated.

The Opposition to the Six-Actions

Verse 37. Through Pranayama alone all impurities are removed; therefore some teachers do not
agree to purifying actions other than Pranayama.

Gaja Karani
Verse 38 The Sadhaka, after drawing the Apana up to the throat, vomits the contents of the
stomach. By the regular and routine practice of this technique, all the intestines are mastered. The
teachers who are knowers of Hatha Yoga call it Gajakarani, ‘elephant instrument.’

Effects of Pranayama
Verse 39 - Brahma and other Devas were always engaged in the exercise of Pranayama, and, by
means of it, lost their fear of death. Therefore, one should practice Pranayama regularly.

Verse 40 So long as the breath is restrained in the body, so long as the Chitta is undisturbed, and
so long as the gaze is fixed between the eyebrows, there is no fear of death.

Verse 41 When the system of Nadis becomes clear of the impurities by properly controlling the
Prana, then the air, piercing the entrance of the Sushumna, enters it easily.

Verse 42 Steadiness of Chitta comes when the Prana moves freely in the middle. That is the
Manomani condition, which is attained when the Chitta becomes calm.

Verse 43 To accomplish it, various Kumbhakas are performed by those who are expert in Yoga
methods. By the practice of different Kumbhakas, wonderful success is attained.

Verse 44. Suryabhedana, Ujjayi, Sitkari, Shitali, Bhastrika, Bhramari, Murcha and Plavini are
the eight Kumbhakas.

Yoga Yukti (The Device of Yoga)

Verses 45 - 47 One should practice the bond named Jalandhara after the completion of drawing
in and, after having restrained the breath, do the bond named Uddiyana after the release. The
Prana quickly reaches the Brahma Nadi due to the contraction of the throat during the throat
lock, and due to the contracting of the base the Prana goes up through the middle passage.
Having thus directed the Apana upward, one should bring the Prana down; thus the Yogi, by
means of this special practice, becomes a youth of sixteen years.

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Verses 48 - 50 After being seated on a convenient and comfortable Asana, the Yogi, should
gradually draw in the Prana from outside; and having taken it through the right Nadi from the tip
of the nose to as far as the hair, then should restrain it. After that he should release it out through
the left Nadi. The excellent Suryabhedana Kumbhaka is the purifier of the head and the brain and
is the remover of all ailments caused by Vata and worms; so, this should be repeatedly practiced.

Ujjayi Kumbhaka
Verses 51 – 53 Having closed the mouth, through both nostrils gradually draw in the Prana from
the throat making a rasping, sound, and let it reach the heart. Having restrained it as before, let it
be released out through the Ida Nadi. The restraint removes all ailment of mucus in the throat,
increases the fire in the belly, and removes impurities in the Nadis and does away with all
complaints due to an imbalance of the humors. This Kumbhaka named Ujjayi should be practiced
while walking, standing and going about.

Sitkari Kumbhaka
Verses 54 - 56 Place the tongue rolled into a cone between the lips and draw in the Prana and
make the sound of drawing in the breath. Then, having closed the mouth, release out the Prana
through both nostrils. By practicing this, the Yogi becomes a second Kamadeva, who is adored in
the Yogini Chakra, and the destroyer of creation. After that, he is not overpowered by hunger,
thirst, sleep, or laziness. Due to this, the strength of the Yogi is enhanced. Lastly, by the practice
of Sitkari Kumbhaka, he becomes exempt from all physical ailments and obstacles.

Shitali Kumbhaka
Verses 57 - 58 A wise Sadhaka should draw in the Prana through his tongue and by means of
the practice of restraint as mentioned before and, in the end of the Kumbhaka, he should release
the Prana through both nostrils. The Kumbhaka named Shitali destroys all diseases of the glands,
intestines, ulcers, fever, and removes trouble with the belly, heat, thirst, and the effect of any kind
of poison.

Bhastrika Kumbhaka
Verses 59 - 67 Both clean feet should be placed on the thighs. This posture is padmasana, the
destroyer of all sins. The wise Sadhaka should align his abdomen and neck. Then, having closed
the mouth, the Sadhaka should release out so that the heart, throat and head are touched with
sound; then, draw in the vital air quickly up to the heart. Thus, the Sadhaka should repeatedly
release out and draw in. Just as a blacksmith works a bellows quickly, similarly, the Sadhaka
should make the Prana work with good judgment. When there appears some fatigue in the body,
draw in through the Surya Nadi in such a way that the abdomen remains filled with air. Using the
thumb, ring, and little fingers, he should hold his nose firmly; and, after having systematically
done this Kumbhaka, he should release out through the Ida Nadi. This restraint, named
Bhastrika, is the killer of the diseases of mucus, wind, and excess heat. It increases desirable heat
inside the body, arouses Kundalini quickly; and it is pure, useful and the giver of comfort. In the
upper part of the mouth of the Brahma Nadi, the accumulated mucus which blocks the
circulation of the Prana, is removed by it; and it perfectly penetrates through the three Granthis
of the body. It should be prominently practiced.

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 Bhramari Kumbhaka
Verse 68. The Sadhaka should perform this Bhramari Kumbhaka in such a manner that there
should be a sound like that of the female bumblebee; and thus, with rapid speed of vibration, he
should slowly release out. Through this practice, the Anandalila is born in the Chitta of the Yogi.

Murcha Kumbhaka
Verse 69. The Kumbhaka, named the Chitta swoon is the giver of happiness. It is practiced at the
end of drawing in with completely steady Jalandhara bandha, and then by gradually releasing
out.

Plavini Kumbhaka
Verse 70. The Yogi, with his abdomen completely filled with air, floats on the surface of deep
water happily like a lotus leaf.

Techniques of Kumbhaka
Verse 71. Pranayama has been said to consist of three techniques: releasing out, drawing in and
holding. In Pranayama, the holding consists of two techniques: with releasing out and drawing
in, and without.

Verse 72. As long as Kevala Kumbhaka has not been accomplished, the duration of the Sahita
Kumbhaka should be continually practiced to extend it. The easy and comfortable suspension of
the Prana without releasing out or drawing in is called Kevala Kumbhaka.

The Greatness of the Kevala Kumbhaka

Verses 73 - 76. After the Siddhi of Kevala Kumbhaka, without Rechaka-Puraka, there is nothing
out of reach of the Yogi. The Yogi who becomes quite able to practice Kevala Kumbhaka arouses
Kundalini; and by it’s awakening, the Sushumna is cleansed. Thereby, Hatha Yoga is attained.
Raja Yoga without Hatha Yoga, Jnana Yoga without Karma Yoga, or Hatha Yoga without Raja
Yoga, Karma Yoga without Jnana Yoga cannot be accomplished. So, the Sadhaka should
appropriately practice both Yogas for the attaining of the Siddhi of Raja Yoga.

Verse 77. Through the Kevala Kumbhaka, having restrained, the Prana , the Yogi should let his
Chitta roam free. Thus, the Yogi, through the regular and routine practice of Yoga, attains the
status of Raja Yoga.

The Signs of Having Finished Hatha Yoga

Verse 78. The lightness of the body, luster of the skin, clearness of Nada, brightness of the eye,
absence of diseases, victory over Bindu, fire in the belly, purity of the Nadis, are signs of Hatha
siddhi.

The Third Teaching

Verse 1 As the lord of serpents is the upholder of the earth with its mountains, jungles and
forests; in the same way, Kundalini is the basis of all Yoga rituals.

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 The Function of Kundalini
Verse 2 When the sleeping Kundalini is completely awakened through the grace of the Guru,
then the Chakras and Granthis are pierced.

Maturation
Verse 3 When the Sushumna Nadi turns into a royal road, then the Chitta is liberated. After that,
even time and death dissolve.

Verse 4 Sushumna (bliss) Shunayapadavi (empty pathway), Brahma Raundra (god’s door),
Mahapatha (great pathway), Shmashana (cremation ground), Shambhavi (goddess),
Madhyamarga (middle pathway), all these terms are synonyms.

Verse 5 Therefore, the Sadhaka should practice Mudra with all his might, from beginning to
end, to awaken the goddess sleeping at the entrance of the god door.

The Main Mudras and Their Result

Verses 6 - 9 Mahamudra, Mahabandha, Mahavedha, Khecari, Uddiyana, Mulabandha,
Jalandharabandha, Viparitakarani, Vajroli, and Shaktichalana. These ten Mudras are the
destroyer of old age and death. As expounded by the first master, they bestow the eight
accomplishments. These ten Mudras favored by adepts are difficult to obtain even by the gods.
They should be kept secret like a box of gems. It should not be spoken of to others, just as sexual
intercourse with a high-born woman.

Mahamudra
Verses 10 - 18. Having pressed the perineum with the heel of the left foot and having stretched
out the right foot, one should firmly hold the toe. After that, with the throat locked, one should
restrain the Prana and should assume the position of a coiled serpent which has been struck by a
stick. Then, the curved, evasive Kundalini becomes suddenly, forcefully straight. Then the two
channels die. After this, one should breathe out slowly and not forcefully. Indeed, this is the
Mahamudra taught by the great adepts. Through its regular and routine practice, the great
afflictions (Kleshas) and death are removed. So, supreme experts who know call it Mahamudra.
Having practiced the moon side well, one should practice the sun side. When the number of
repetitions reaches the same count, then end the practice. For a person who regularly and
routinely practices there is no food that is enjoined or forbidden because even tasteless food gets
digested. Not only that, even poison is digested as if ambrosia. Through the appropriate and
routine practice of this Mudra, the diseases of consumption, leprosy, ulcer, rheumatism,
indigestion, etc., are done away with. This Mahamudra bestows on the Yogi great powers, so it
should be very scrupulously kept secret and should not be given to an unworthy person.

Mahabandha
Verses 19 - 25. With the heel of the left foot, press the perineum; one should then place his right
foot on the left thigh; after that, firmly press the chin on the heart, and, having drawn in the air,
the Chitta should be focused on the middle Nadi. At the end of this great seal, one should
practice breath retention to one's capacity and then should slowly exhale. Thus, one should
practice the right part after first having practiced the left part. Some Yogis have the opinion that
the throat lock is to be avoided as the tongue locked against the front upper teeth is superior. This
Mahabandha is the bestower of the great powers as it prevents the Prana from rising up and

11
circulating through all the Nadis except the middle Nadi. This Mahabandha is able to liberate
one from the noose of death. It controls the confluence of the three Nadis; Ida, Pingala, and
Sushumna. Just as the life of a beautiful woman is a failure in the absence of a man, similarly,
without Mahavedha, Mahabandha is useless.

Mahavedha
Verses 26 - 31. The Yogi, with fully concentrated attention and seated in Mahabandha, should
practice drawing in Prana. Through the throat Mudra, he should restrain the air and, should
place both palms on the ground at equal distance apart. Then he should slowly beat the buttocks
against the ground. Thus, the air, having transcended both Nadis, flows in the middle Nadi. The
moon Nadi, the sun Nadi and the fire Nadi, having been joined together, bestow the nectar of
immortality; and after that, the Yogi should purge out the air. Supreme Sadhakas without failure
carry on the practice of Mahavedha which bestows the great powers that do away with old age,
trembling, and decrepitude of the body. These three Mahamudra, Mahabandhamudra, and
Mahavedhamudra, which are kept very secret, are the remover of old age, death, the igniter of
the fire of Yoga, the bestower of Siddhi and the enhancer of the whole collection of virtues and
the destroyer of all sins, and should be practiced eight times in every three hour period of each
day.

Khecharimudra
Verse 32. When the tongue in reverse position enters the skull cavity, then the Khecharimudra
occurs.

Verse 33. As long as the tongue does not touch the middle of the eye-brows, until then one
should cut, move, and milk the tongue and thus should try to lengthen it, only then can the
Khecharimudra be accomplished.

Verse 34 - 36. With a sharp weapon resembling the leaf of the Sehuda' tree, thin, smooth, and
clean, one should cut slightly the tendon in the lower part of the tongue. Then rub the tongue
smoothly with powdered salt and Myrobalan. After seven days, one should again cut slightly to a
hair breath. Thus for six months, one should carry on each day these activities, starting with
cutting. Within six months the tendon at the base of the tongue will be cut through.

Verse 37 Let the tongue, in a reverse position, be taken to the place where the three paths come
together. This is the Khecharimudra. It is also called the Vyoma Chakra.

The Glory of Khecharimudra

Verse 38 - 40 The Yogi who steadies himself, even for half a moment, with the reversed tongue
standing up straight, becomes free from the effect of poison, disease, old age and death. The Yogi
who knows the Khecharimudra, will not be attacked by diseases; and he is freed from death,
yawning, sleep, thirst, hunger and swoon. He suffers from no disease; he is not bound by actions,
nor is he subject to death.

Esoterism of the Name

Verse 41 Chitta roams in the sky and the tongue also wanders in the sky, so the adepts have
named it Khechari (sky dancer).

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 Protection of the Bindu
Verse 42 - 43 The Yogi who, by means of Khecharimudra, has covered the opening will not have
his Virya, drop down even if he embraces a desiring woman. When the falling Virya reaches the
Yoni Mandala; then, being bound by means of the accomplished Yonimudra, it is attracted up.

Moon Juice
Verses 44 - 45 The Yogi who, with his expecting tongue firm drinks the moon juice, within only
one half of a fortnight, succeeds in conquering death; in this there is no doubt. The body of this
Yogi is constantly filled with moon drops; in his body, even poison from the bite of a serpent
does not become uncontrollable. Just as fire does not abandon the wood, and light does not
abandon the oil fed wick, so the soul does not abandon the body that is possessed of the moon
drops.

Eating Cow Meat and Drinking Deathless Wine

Verses 46 - 48 I consider that Yogi as belonging to a high family who eats the meat of the cow
and drinks the deathless wine. The rest of the Yogis are the destroyers of their families. The word
'cow' means the tongue and the word 'meat' means the palate. The cow meat eating expiates the
greatest of sins. The heat generated by the fire of Yoga as a result of the entry of the tongue into
the realm of the tenth door, collects the essence of the moon. This essence is, verily, the deathless
wine.

Rasa Siddhi and Its Result

Verse 49 –51 If the tongue which brings about the flow of nectars: salty, pungent, sour, milky,
sweet, and creamy, always touches the upper part of the nectar cavity, then all disease of this
Siddha Yogi and old age are destroyed, his immortality with the eight Siddhi beginning with
'Anima' is attained; an even the ability to attract the female Siddha arises.

The Attainment of Knowledge and the Accomplishment of Mudra

Verse 52 – 53 In that unstained space, where there is the opening, the source of self-knowledge
with the five flows, there the Khecharimudra becomes steady.

Seed, Mudra, God, and the Independent State

Verse 54 There is only one seed in the form of creation; and one Mudra, it is Khecarimudra. One
God, independent of everything, and one independent state of the Chitta, Manomani.

Abdominal Lock Seal

Verses 54 - 59 The Mudra through which bound Prana begins to fly up the Sushumna has been
called 'Uddiyanabandha’ by Yogis. That lock through which the Prana, in the form of a large
bird, ceaselessly flies, is, verily,Uddiyana. One should try to move the upper and lower parts of
the abdomen towards the spine. This practice is the Uddiyanabandha, like a lion, the killer of the
elephant in the form of death. The Sadhaka who regularly and routinely carries on the practice of
Uddiyanabandha as instructed by the teacher, in spite of being old, regains youth. Let the
Sadhaka pull up, with all his might, the upper and lower parts of his navel. With practice for six
months, undoubtedly, the Sadhaka conquers death. Among all Mudras, the abdominal lock is the
highest. When Uddiyanabandha becomes quite steady, liberation then is naturally achieved.

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 Anal Lock
Verses 60 - 62 The anus should be firmly contracted after first pressing the perineum with the
heel; thus, let him pull up the Apana. This process is called Mulabandha by the knowers of Yoga.
This lock makes the normally down and out tending Apana air go upward. Having, by the highest
way, pressed the door of the anus, the Sadhaka should pull up the Apana air repeatedly and with
force, so that it might be enabled to rise. For the one who only desires liberation, there is only
one way for him: to completely awaken the Kundalini.

The Result of the Anal Lock and Pacifying the Evolutinary Force
Verses 63 - 68 Prana-Apana, Nada-Bindu having been brought together by Mulabhandha, the
Yoga Siddhi is conferred on one. There is no doubt about this. Apana-Prana unite, urine and
excrement decrease, even the old become young, by the constant practice of Mulabandha. When
the Apana Vayu, tending downward, being turned upward reaches the circle of fire, then the
Apana Vayu becomes the long flame of the quivering fire of Yoga. When the Apana Vayu and
the fire reach the Prana, hot by nature, then the heat in the body is intensified; the sleeping
Kundalini, being heated, is awakened, and, then quivering and sending out flames like a she
serpent darting out fangs and raised hoods, becomes mastered when struck by a stick. Then, like
a she serpent entering her hole, the Kundalini enters the Brahmanadi; therefore, Yogis should
every day and always practice Mulabandha.

Waterholder Seal
Verse 69 This is called the Jalandharabandha, the destroyer of old age and death, in which the
chin is firmly placed against the heart with the neck contracted.

Jalandharamudra and its Result

Verses 72 - 77 Jalandharabandha binds the network of Nadis and blocks the downward flow of
water from above, so it is called the water holder. It is the destroyer of throat misery. When
Jalandharabandha, characterized by contraction of the throat, is completed, the nectar does not
fall into the fire and the Prana is not misdirected. By the contraction of the throat the two Nadis
should be completely blocked. This is the middle chakra, the binder of the sixteen basic centers.
Contracting the anus, by Mulabandha, one should practice Uddiyana. Then block the Ida and
Pingala, let the Prana flow along the posterior path. By this process, Prana is merged; then do
not occur death, old age, or disease. These three Bandhas are the highest and are practiced by
great adepts. Yogis regard them to be the means of Hatha rituals. All the nectar flowing from the
moon, is sucked up by the sun, therefore, the body becomes old. In the Bandhas is the divine
means to avoid escape the sun. This, by the instruction of the Sadguru is known, and not by
millions of discussions about teachings.

The Reverse Seal

Verses 78 - 83 The Yogi who assumes the posture with his navel up and palate down, has his sun
up and moon down. This upside down instrument is achieved by the correct instruction of the
Sadguru. This upside down instrument seal, constantly practiced by the Sadhaka, increases the
fire in the belly; so he should eat more. If he eats less, the fire in the belly will immediately begin
to burn up his body. The Sadhaka for a short while should place his head down and his feet up on
the first day. Then he should gradually increase the time while practicing daily. After six months,
wrinkles and gray hair disappear. The Yogi who offers this practice daily for three hours,
achieves victory over death.

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 Vajroli
Verse 83 The Yogi who knows Vajrolimudra, if he does what he feels to be right not keeping the
rules of yogic scripture, gets Siddhi.

The Method of Vajrolimudra

Verse 84 - 85 I consider these two things difficult to obtain: the first thing is milk and the second
is surrendered woman. During Sambhoga a Sadhaka or Sadhika should practice gradually
directing Sukra or Raja correctly upward before either gets discharged. Thus the Vajrolimudra
becomes accomplished.

Yoga Yukti: The Secret Treasure Map of Yoga

Verse 86 In order to move the Prana through the tube in the Linga, one should persistently
gradually blow through the sexual tube.

Guarding the Bindu

Verse 87 The Sadhaka should do the practice of drawing upward the Virya before it gets
discharged into the Yoni. If the Virya gets discharged, it should be saved by drawing it upward.

Guarding the Bindu

Verses 88 - 90 Thus the Sadhaka should, in every way guard Bindu. By this the knower of Yoga
attains victory over death because by the downfall of the Bindu, death occurs, and by its
protection life is gained. By the retention and protection of the Bindu, a fragrance in the body is
produced. As long as the Bindu is well retained in the body, where is the fear of death? The
Bindu of man depends on the Chitta and in turn life depends on Bindu; therefore, with all efforts
Bindu and Chitta should be well guarded.

Verse 91 The knower of Yoga, established in perfect practice, holds Bindu and Rajas by drawing
it up through the generative organ.

Vrajolimudra
Verses 92 - 95 Sahajoli and Amaroli are both varieties of Vajroli. The Yogi, seated at ease after
mixing the two juices, should smear his limbs with pure ashes soaked in water. Compassionate
Yogis have described this Sahajolimudra, as worthy of faith. This is auspiciously conducive to
the good of all Yoga, even being applied to pleasure, is the bestower of liberation. Virtuous,
patient, and pious knowers of the essence who are free from all envy and hate, such Yogis
accomplish can accomplish this Yoga. A Sadhaka, full of envy and enmity, will not attain it.

The Immortal Seal and the Attainment of Divine Sight

Verses 96 – 97 Abandoning the overly hot first moon secretion flow and the weak last flow,
when the cool middle flow is used, this is called Amaroli in the school of the Kapalika sect.
When the Sadhaka daily drinks the deathless draught through his nose, appropriately and
continually practices the Vajrolimudra it is called Amaroli.

Verse 98 The nectar which flows out from the moon through the practice of Amarolimudra, then
being mixed with the sacred sacrificial ashes, should be smeared on the upper limbs and thus
divine sight is gained.

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Verse 99 If a woman practices Vajroli and saves her Rajas and the Bindu by complete
contraction, she is a Yogini.

Verse 100 - 101. When Vajroli is perfected, not a drop of Rajas is wasted and the Nada and
Bindu in the body become one. The Bindu and Rajas in one’s own body unite through the
practice of Vajroli, bringing Siddhi.

Verse 102 The true Yogini holds her Rajas by contracting and raising it. She becomes all
knowing and fixed in Khechari.

Verse 103 The fruit of Vajrolimudra is perfection of the body. The practice brings Bukti and
Mukti.

Kundalini and Its Synonyms

Verse 104 All these words, Kutilangi, Kundalini, Bhujani, Sakti, Isvari, Kundali and Arundhati
have the same meaning.

The Evolutionary Force

Verses 105 - 107 Just as someone opens a door by working with a key, similarly, a Yogi, through
the Kundalini, opens the door of liberation. The Kundalini sleeps, covering the hole of the
passage by which one can go to the seat of Brahma, which is free from suffering. Kundalini
Shakti sleeps on the Kanda, giving Moksha to Yogis and bondage to the ignorant. He who
experiences this knows Yoga.

Knowledge of the Evolutionary Force

Verses 108 - 110 The Kundalini sakti is said to be coiled like a female snake. He is indeed
liberated who arouses and directs her; this is beyond doubt. Between the Ganga and the Yamuna
rivers sits a young widow ascetic, to seize her forcibly is the path to the abode of god. The Ganga
river is the Ida Nadi and the Yamuna river is the Pingala Nadi. Between the ida and Pingala, lies
the young widow Kundalini.

Verses 111 - 125 This sleeping she-serpent should be awakened by catching hold of her tail. By
the force of Hatha, the Shakti leaves her sleep, and rises upwards. She should be caught and
moved by Kumbhak daily, morning and evening for one and one half hours, by inhaling through
Pingala by the Paridhana method. The Kanda is above the anus, 9 inches long, and measures 3-
4 inches in extent and is soft and white, and appears as if a folded cloth. Keeping the feet in
Vajrasana, hold them firmly with the hands. The position of the Kanda then will be near the
ankle joint, where it should be pressed. The Yogi, sitting in Vajrasana and having moved
Kundalini, should perform Bhastrika to arouse the Kundalini soon. Surya, above the navel
should be contracted which will move the Kundaini. There is no fear for him who does so, even
if he has entered the mouth of death. By moving Kundalini, for one and one half hours, it is
drawn up a little from the Sushumna. By this, Kundalini leaves the entrance of the Sushumna,
and the Prana at once enters it of itself. Therefore, this comfortably sleeping Arundhati should
always be moved; for by so doing the Yogi gets rid of diseases. The Yogi, who has been able to
move the Shakti deserves success. It is useless to say more, suffice it to say that he conquers
death playfully. The Yogi observing Brahmacharya and always eating sparingly, obtains success

16
within 40 days of practice with the Kundalini. After moving the Kundali, plenty of Bhastrika
should be performed. By such practice, he has no fear from the god of death. There is no other
way but the practice of the Kundalini, for washing away the impurities of 72,000 Nadis. This
middle Nadi of Yogis becomes straight by steady practice of postures, Pranayama and Mudras.
Those whose sleep has decreased by practice, and whose Chitta has become calm by Samadhi,
get beneficial accomplishments by Shambhavi and other Mudras.

Mutual Support
Verse 126 The earth without a king, the night without the moon, and Raja Yoga without Mudra,
these three, do not have beauty of their own.

Special Information
Verse 127 The appropriate and perfect practice of Pranayama should be done correctly and with
concentration of the Chitta. The Sadhaka should not involve his attention in objects other than
that.

The Ten Mudras

Verse 128 Thus, Lord Adinatha has enunciated the ten Mudras. Each of these Mudras is the
bestower of the great accomplishment. Neither the Yogindra Matsendranathji, neither the
Yogiraj Gorakhsa Nathaji, nor did any other Yogi create these ten Mudras. These ten Mudras are
the divine gift of Yoga; they are handed down by the first master holy Shiva, the Beloved.

The Highest Teacher

Verse 129 He is, indeed, the honored true teacher, who imparts the instruction about these
Mudras in accordance with the ancient tradition. He is a master and is god incarnate.

Inspiration and Encouragement

Verse 130 The pupil who is ever ready to carry out the instructions of the true teacher, and who,
with attentiveness, carries on the constant practice of Mudra, along with the attainment of Anima
and the other Siddhi, becomes the conqueror of death.

The Fourth Teaching

Verse 1 I surrender millions of times to the true teacher, who is identified with the auspicious
lord Shiva.

The Beginning of the Step-by-Step Procedure of Samadhi

Verse 2 Now, let me describe the supreme procedure of Samadhi, which destroys death and is a
means which yields bliss and the abode of god.

Synonyms of Samadhi
Verses 3 - 4 Raja Yoga, Samadhi, Unmani (no-Chitta), Manomani (absence of Chitta), Amartva
(immortality), Laya (absorption), Sunyasunya (the world of voids), Paramapada (beyond
measure place), Amanska (un-Chitta), Advaita (non- dual), Niralamba (without basis), Niranjana
(without stain), Jivanmukti (living liberation), Sahajavastha (natural state), Turya (the fourth
stage), and others are synonymous.

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 Samadhi
Verses 5 - 7 Just as salt, being mixed with water, is dissolved in and becomes one with the water;
similarly, the Chitta merged with the essence of the soul, becomes one with it. When the Prana
gradually and evenly weakens and wears out and the Chitta also is dissolved, then that union is
called Samadhi. Similarly, the union of the individual soul with the supreme soul in which all
thoughts, goals, and desires are merged, is called Samadhi.

In Praise of Raja Yoga

Verses 8 - 9 Who is truly able to know the importance and greatness of Raja Yoga? Through the
correct guidance, training and discipline of the true teacher, knowledge, stability,
accomplishment and liberation are achieved. Without the grace and compassion of the true
teacher, nonattachment to the world, realization of God, and the natural state are very difficult to
obtain.

The Natural State and Its Attainment

Verse 10 - 11 Through various Asanas, Kumbhakas, and Mudras, the great Shakti is aroused.
Then Prana merges into the void. A Yogi whose Kundalini becomes completely awakened who
renounces all actions, attains the Sahajavastha (natural state).

The Destruction of All Action

Verse 12 When the Prana passes through the Sushumna Nadi and the Chitta enters the void, the
Yogi leaves behind the effects of all his actions and renders them totally dissolved.

To the Deathless Yogi I Surrender

Verse 13 To you, O immortal Yogi, who has the universe, animate and inanimate, within your
body and who has conquered time and death, I surrender.

The Accomplishment of Amaroli, Vajroli and Sahajoli

Verse 14 When the Chitta is poised in equanimity and the Prana, having passed through the
middle channel, becomes steady, then the goals of Amaroli, Vajroli and Sahajoli, are
accomplished.

The Technique of Absorbing the Life Energy

Verse 15 - 16 How can it be possible to have transcendental knowledge, so long as the Prana is
living and the Chitta has not died? No one else can obtain Moksha except one who can make
one's Prana and Chitta latent. Let the Sadhaka always remain in a very pure state; after having
learned the method of penetrating the Sushumna channel and directing the Prana to pass through
the middle passage, let the Prana stay in the cavity of god.

A Hidden Secret
Verse 17 The sun and the moon regulate time in the form of day and night. The Sushumna Nadi
eats up that time. I have told you the most of a profound secret.

The Great Importance of the Sushumna

Verse 18 In this body there are 72,000 Nadis. Among them the Sushumna channel is the consort
of Siva and the rest are meaningless.

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 Realisation of the Path
Verses 19 - 20 A Sadhaka should continually practice in such a way that he will know the Prana
perfectly. Let him arouse the Kundalini with the fire of Yoga and thus enter the Sushumna
channel unimpeded. When the Prana passes through the Sushumna channel, the state of no-
Chitta is accomplished. After this, other practices become useless and futile for the Yogi.

Chitta and Prana

Verses 21 - 23 That which binds the Prana, also binds the Chitta. That which binds the Chitta,
also binds the Prana. There are two causes for the activity of the Chitta: desire and the Prana. If
one is destroyed, the other is also destroyed. When the Chitta is absorbed by union with the
absolute, the Prana also is absorbed. Where the Prana gets merged, the Chitta also gets merged.

Relationship Between Chitta and Prana

Verses 24 - 25 Like milk and water, Chitta and the Prana are closely linked and they do similar
functions. Where there is Prana, there is the functioning of the Chitta. Where there is Chitta, the
Prana is active. The functioning of one is closely connected to the functioning of the other. The
organs of action and sense function as long as the destruction of both has not occurred. The
absorption of both leads to liberation.

The Rasa and the Chitta

Verses 26 - 27 Rasa, Virya and Chitta are by their very nature unsteady. When Virya is brought
under full control, the Chitta also is controlled. Then, in this state, is there anything in the world
left unaccomplished? Bhagavan Adinatha says, "O Parvati. If Virya and the Prana are fully
restrained and made peaceful, they dissipate all diseases. Being thus bound, they bestow the
power to fly in space on the Sadhaka.

The Organs, Chitta, Prana and the Divine Attractant

Verses 28 - 29 When the Chitta begins to be quite steady and stable, the Prana also begins to be
steady and still. The steadiness of the Prana leads to the gain of energy and power; also, the body
becomes unshakable. The master of the organs of action and sense is the Chitta; and the master
of the Chitta is the Prana; and, the master of the Prana is Laya and this Laya depends on the
divine Nada.

The Attainment of the Bliss of God

Verse 30 The complete absorption of the Chitta is liberation. Yes, according to the opinion of
some, it is not liberation. But, when there is the complete absorption of the Chitta and Prana,
only then is some inexplicable and indescribable bliss born.

Samadhi from Absorption, Union

Verse 31 The absorption of the Chitta by a Yogi is supreme, whose exhaling and inhaling have
ended; and whose awareness of the objects of sense has been totally destroyed; whose workings
of Chitta have stopped and who is above all changes.

Definition of Absorption
Verses 32 - 34 Where the eye sight is completely steady, there are no external elements and there
are no organs of action or sense: that ability which living people have in the form of both
learning and false learning melts into the invisible, there is Laya. Though many Sadhakas call

19
out, 'Laya, Laya', there are very rare few Sadhakas who really know the nature of Laya. Mentally
based desires to seek pleasure being left behind and not re-occurring; and finally, all objects of
sense forgotten. This state of Sadhana is called 'Laya'.

The Greatness of Shambhavimudra

Verse 35 The four Vedas, the six philosophies, and the eighteen Puranas, all these are like
common prostitutes, but this Shambhavimudra is to be kept secret and well guarded like a lady of
a noble family.

Shambhavimudra's Nature
Verse 35 The target of this Sambhavimudra, kept secret in the Veda and in all true and holy
teaching, is within the subjective faculty and the eyesight, unblinking, remains aimed outward.

Yogi Steady In Sambhavimudra

Verse 36 – 37 When a Yogi has his Prana and his Chitta absorbed into the target of his own self;
and with his steady and firm gaze, directed outward, he will see nothing, he is then in
Sambhavimudra by the grace of the teacher. After this, in that inner space, the unique and
extraordinary glory of Sambhu shines and smiles on him.

Sambhavi and Khecari

Verse 38 Between Sambhavi and khecari there is both a difference in location and state; even so,
the bliss that comes from absorption in Laya is the same.

No-Chitta Seal
Verse 39 With the eyebrows slightly raised, uniting the image in the pupil of the eye with the
divine light; if the Sadhaka then joins the Chitta with the divine light he instantly enters the state
of no Chitta.

The Path Of Illusion

Verse 40 Some Sadhakas have been trapped by the net of the Agama, some are caught in the nets
of the Vedas and the Puranas, and others are deluded by the intricate systems of logic. They do
not know the path of true knowledge of the divine light.

One's Own Real Nature

Verse 41 A Yogi, with his half-closed eyes fixed on the tip of his nose, with Chitta well balanced
and perfectly composed, gradually absorbs the moon and the sun, attaining that supreme place,
completely refulgent, illustrious, the primordial seed of all, completely perfect. What more can
be said?

When To Worship The Linga

Verse 42 One should not worship the Linga during the daytime, nor should it be worshipped
during the night time. Avoiding the day and the night one should always worship the Linga.

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 The Stability Of Khecharimudra
Verse 43 - 45 When the Prana from the left and right channels, begins to flow through the
middle channel, at that point the Khecharimudra is steady. When the space, located between the
Ida and Pingala channels, grips the Prana, that is the Khecharimudra. Time and again, I have
stressed the truth of this. In the support-less space which occurs between the Hatha channels, in
the space center, being steadily established, that is Khecharimudra.

The East and West Mouth Of the Sushumna

Verses 46 - 47 that Khecharimudra is very dear to Bhagavan Shiva if there is a flow of nectar.
The west door of the unique and extraordinary Sushumna Nadi should be closed with the tongue.
Similarly, its eastern mouth is also closed with the tongue. Thus, Khecharimudra is
accomplished and its constant practice eventually leads to the generation of Unmanimudra.

Chitta Absorption
Verses 48 - 50 Between the eyebrows is the seat of Bhagavan Shivaji. The Chitta becomes
completely absorbed there. That is the fourth state and is worth knowing. Time does not exist
there. Khecharimudra should be constantly practiced until Yoganidra is attained. A Sadhaka in
Yogic sleep knows no death. A Yogi with support-less Chitta does not think anything whatsoever.
He is undoubtedly like a pot that is filled with water both inside and out.

The Last Yogic Purifying Action

Verses 51 - 57 Just as the outer breathing stops and is absorbed, similarly, the Prana inside the
body also is absorbed. Thus along with the Chitta, the Prana remains steady in its own place.
Through the constant practice of the Yogi, day and night in this manner, the Prana becomes
weakened and the Chitta gets absorbed. The whole body will become filled with nectar. Thus,
the one who has perfection will attain an excellent body, and great strength and valor. Merging
the mind in the Kundalini and the Kundalini in the mind and observing one’s self, one should
meditate on the supreme state. Merging the individual self in the Universal Self, and seeing the
Self everywhere, one should not let anything enter one’s consciousness. There is no
consciousness, either subjective or objective in the Yogi’s mind as there is nothing inside or
outside an empty pot. The Yogi is filled like a pot in the ocean. One should not worry about
anything in the world, nor should he imagine or think. Abandoning all worries, he should
imagine or think of nothing.

The Imagined Outer Delusion

Verse 58 This entire world is the creation of desire. It is designed by the Chitta. It is the result of
purpose. "So, O Rama, having given up all thoughts that come from desire and resorting to
Nirvikalpa Samadhi, attain perfect peace and tranquility."

The Absorption of the Chitta

Verses 59 - 62 Just as camphor when melted dissolves in fire, and just as salt dissolves in water,
the Chitta is absorbed in ultimate reality. Knowledge and that which is known are simultaneously
dissolved into each other and there is no second. These visible forms, the inanimate and the
animate, all appear to be so through the Chitta, because when the Chitta becomes no Chitta in
Samadhi, there is no duality. The Chitta dissolves by giving up that which can be known. When
the Chitta is dissolved, eventually there is only the state of the absolute.

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 Yoga Is One, Ways to It Many
Verse 63 Thus, great and able teachers have mentioned various means and ways confirmed by
their experiences of the paths to Samadhi.

Surrendering to the Sushumna Nadi and to the Kundalini Goddess

Verse 64 Let us surrender to the Sushumna Nadi, to the Kundalini Sakti, to the nectar flowing
from the moon, and to that Unmani, true knowledge.

Worship The Divine Sound

Verse 65 Now, the worship of Nada, whose essence can be understood and accomplished in an
excellent way even by ordinary Sadhakas, as mentioned by Goraksnatha.

The Uniqueness of the Worship of Nada

Verse 66 Though Adinatha described twelve million, five hundred thousand ways that Laya can
occur, and all bring success, we regard one as superior to all the others.

Hearing Method
Verses 67 - 68 A Yogi seated in Muktasana, absorbed in Samhavimudra, should, with one-
pointed attention, listen to the inner sound. Close the ears, eyes, nostrils and the mouth with the
fingers. Then that clear and pure divine sound is heard through the purified Sushumna Nadi.

The First State of Divine Sound

Verses 69 - 71 There are four states of Yoga that bring the cessation of the activity of the Chitta
They are: Arambha (beginning), Ghata (jar), Paricaya (familiar) and Nispatti (complete, final,
siddhi). When the Brahmagranthi is pierced and bliss is generated in the space, a Yogi then hears
in his own body a spontaneous tinkling sound. This is the beginning state of Nada. A Yogi then
has a divine body radiant, divinely fragrant, and healthy.

The Divine Attractant and Its Jar State

Verses 72 - 73 In the second state, when Prana unites with Apana; then, having entered the
Vishnu Granthi located in the throat, becomes steady there, a Yogi becomes full of knowledge
with his posture unshakeable. He resembles a god in appearance. Then, having pierced the
Vishnu Granthi, he hears the deep sound of the drum and trumpets.

Nada and the Familiar State

Verses 74 - 77 In the third state, a sound like a kettle drum is experienced. In that state, the
Prana enters the space between the eyebrows, the source of all powers. Then having transcended
his own joy, a Yogi blessed with natural bliss, becomes completely immune to misery, old age,
diseases, the pangs of hunger and sleep, etc. When the Prana pierces the Rudragranthi, his
Chitta, then being established in the supreme abode, it is called Raja Yoga. The Yogi, in this
state, is like the creator and destroyer, like God.

The Indivisible Happiness of the Worship of Nada

Verses 78 - 79 It does not matter whether there is liberation or not; surrendering to the divine
energy, brings unbroken happiness. This is Raja Yoga. Sadhakas ignorant of the knowledge of
Raja Yoga, only continue to do Hatha Yoga. I consider their efforts wasted.

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 Easy Method for People of Limited Knowledge
Verse 80 The Yogaraja Svatmaramaji says, "The no-Chitta state, can be attained through
meditation on the middle of the eyebrows. This absorption, born of Nada, enables Sadhakas of
limited knowledge to have an easy and quick way to attain Raja Yoga."

Indescribable Bliss
Verses 81 - 82 The ever expanding, and unique bliss that occurs in the hearts of Yogis through
the constant practice of Samadhi, along with absorbtion in Nada, is only known to Shri Guru
Nathaji. A Tapasvi Muni having closed the ears with both hands, listens to the Anahata Nada.
Let him keep his Chitta, unshakable until complete steadiness and composure are attained.

The Complete Defeat of Distraction

Verse 83 The sounds heard by practice drowns out all external sounds and within 15 days the
Yogi, having overcome all distractions, attains happiness.

Description of Subtle Nada

Verses 84 - 86 In the beginning stage of practice, a Sadhaka hears gross Nada. After his practice
develops and progresses, he hears subtle and, gradually, subtler Nada. In the beginning of
practice, loud sounds, like the roar of waves, rumble of thunder, big drums and trumpets are
heard. In the last stage, subtle sounds like the jingling of ornaments and the sound of a harp and
reverberation like the humming of bees, etc., that are latent in the body come within the range of
hearing.

The Constant Practice of Nada, Gross and Subtle

Verses 87 - 92 Those who know the science of Nada regard the subtle Nada as far superior to the
gross Nada. Subtle Nada ensures more concentration of attention. Similarly, more subtle Nada is
superior to subtle Nada because through this even more concentration of attention is attained.
Gross, subtle, and more subtle Nada are produced by different intensities of the flow of Prana.
When Prana is in full force, the Chitta hears subtle or subtler Nada; when Prana is less intense,
the Chitta hears gross Nada.

The Way to Siddhi

Verse 93 A Yogi who wants to achieve Yoga should give up all anxieties, worries and
distractions and should whole-heartedly concentrate his efforts to unite with Nada.

Nada and Chitta

Verses 94 - 99 Nada is like a hunter that kills the deer in the form of the Chitta. Nada is a strong
lock to prevent the horse in the form of the Chitta from going astray. So, a Yogi should always,
with firm determination, try to enhance the effect of Nada. Quicksilver, in the form of Chitta, is
rendered steady and firm by burning it with sulphur, then it can roam in space. The serpent in the
form of Chitta, forgetting everything, gets charmed by listening to Nada and thus will never flee.
Just as fire in wood gets extinguished, so the Chitta, absorbed in Nada, gets dissolved in God
along with the Nada. If a hunter, in the form of a worshipper of Nada, is skilled in hitting the
target with an arrow, then it is quite easy for him to kill the deer in the form of Chitta when the
attention is engrossed by the Nada, such as a conch, harp, etc.

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 The Beyond-measure Abode of Vishnu
Verse 100 There is an essence worth knowing inside the sound produced by Anahata Nada.
Within that essence dwells the Chitta. Chitta gets united with and absorbed into that essence.
Verily, that is the supreme abode of lord Visnu.

Beyond-Measure God
Verse 101 - 102 As long as the all-pervading Nada is active, space is imagined to exist. That
utter silence beyond all description is called the supreme essence. Whatever, in the form of Nada
is heard, verily, that is Shakti. And, that which is formless and which is the very end of essence,
is, verily, the supreme lord.

Above the Effect of Time, the Raja Yogi

Verses 103 - 104 All practices, techniques or processes of Hatha and Laya aim at the
accomplishment of Raja Yoga. A Yogi, whose efforts are crowned with supreme success on
attaining Raja Yoga, is above all effects of time.

Destruction of Sin and Virtue

Verse 105 Through uniting with the Nada the accumulated sins are destroyed and undoubtedly
the Chitta and Prana are united with and are absorbed in the stainless universal spirit.

The Nature of No Knowledge Samadhi

Verses 106 - 113 A Yogi seated in the no-Chitta state, never hears Nada of conch, drum, etc. In
this state, undoubtedly, his body remains immovable, inactive, like a log. That Yogi, being
completely free from all worries, distractions, misery, becomes like a dead body. He is a living
liberated one. This is beyond doubt. The god of death cannot destroy a Yogi seated in perfect
Samadhi; nor, can the bondage of Karma bind him. Not only that, he cannot be controlled by
anyone. One who is in Samadhi is beyond the effect of sound, touch, form, taste, smell, his own
soul and the souls of others. He recognizes no difference between himself and others. Verily, that
Yogi is a living liberated one whose Chitta is never in a state of sleep, and is above all sense of
either remembering or forgetting and is beyond rise and fall, etc. A Yogi in perfect Samadhi
remains untouchable by weapons, cannot be trapped by any embodied entity, and cannot be
subjected to magic or curses, etc.

True Knowledge and False, Incoherent Talk

Verse 114 As long as the moving Prana, having entered the middle path, does not become steady
in the cavity of god, the Bindu will not be steady under the firm restraint of the Prana and the
Chitta also will not be concentrated in natural meditation; and, until then any knowledge about
Yoga is like boastful and incoherent talk.

The End

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