Chapter 6 Verse 11
Dhyān Yog
शुचौ देशे प्रतिष्ठाप्य स्थिरमासनमात्मनः। नात्युच्छ्रितं नातिनीचं चैलाजिनकुशोत्तरम्।।6.11।।
śhuchau deśhe pratiṣhṭhāpya sthiram āsanam ātmanaḥ nātyuchchhritaṁ nāti-nīchaṁ chailājina-kuśhottaram
Word Meanings
| śhuchau | in a clean |
| deśhe | place |
| pratiṣhṭhāpya | having established |
| sthiram | steadfast |
| āsanam | seat |
| ātmanaḥ | his own |
| na | not |
| ati | too |
| uchchhritam | high |
| na | not |
| ati | too |
| nīcham | low |
| chaila | cloth |
| ajina | a deerskin |
| kuśha | kuśh grass |
| uttaram | one over the other |
Translation
In a clean spot, having established a firm seat of his own, neither too high nor too low, made of cloth, skin, and kusha grass layered one over the other.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse instructs the seeker to sit in a clean, steady place and to make a seat that is neither too high nor too low. This is both a practical rule and a symbol: outer order helps bring inner calm. A simple, clean space prepares the body and mind for steady attention.
The guideline against extremes teaches balance. Comfort should be enough to remain alert without encouraging laziness or strain. The layered seat (cloth, skin, kusha grass) shows using modest supports — neither luxury nor austere discomfort — to sustain practice.
Making “one’s own” seat points to personal responsibility. Meditation is not a borrowed habit; it requires a steady, regular arrangement that suits you. The posture and place become aids to discipline, focus, and humility on the spiritual path.
Life Application
- Choose a small, clean corner in your home and keep it just for practice—simple and tidy.
- Sit in a posture that is steady and comfortable: not slumped, not strained; use a cushion or mat if needed.
- Practice regularly with moderation—start short and increase gradually; avoid extremes of effort or laziness.
Reflection Question
Do I have a simple, steady place and posture that helps me practice regularly?