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The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali - Book 1 - The Problem of Union
7. The basis of correct knowledge is correct perception, correct deduction and correct witness (or accurate evidence). One of the most revolutionary realizations to which the occult student has to adjust himself is the appreciation that the mind is a means whereby knowledge is to be gained. In the west the idea has mostly been held that the mind is that part of the human mechanism which utilizes knowledge. The "process of turning things over in the mind," of striving to solve problems by hard mental labor has no part ultimately in the [17] unfoldment of the soul. It is only a preliminary stage and has to be superseded by a different method. The student of Raja Yoga has to realize that the mind is intended to be an organ of perception; only thus will he arrive at a right understanding of this science. The process to be followed in relation to the mind might be described somewhat as follows: Right control of the modifications (or activities) of the thinking principle. Stabilization of the mind and its subsequent use by the soul as an organ of vision, a sixth sense, and the synthesis of all the five other senses. Result: Correct knowledge. Right use of the perceiving faculty, so that the new field of knowledge which is now contacted is seen as it is. That which is perceived is rightly interpreted through the subsequent assent of the intuition and the reason. Right transmission to the physical brain of that which has been perceived; the testimony of the sixth sense is correctly interpreted, and the evidence is transmitted with occult accuracy. Result: Correct reaction of the physical brain to the transmitted knowledge. When the process is studied and followed, the man on the physical plane becomes increasingly aware of the things of the soul, and the mysteries of the soul realm - or the "Kingdom of God." All group concerns and the nature of group consciousness are revealed to him. It will be noted [18] that these rules are even now regarded somewhat as essential premises where all accurate testimony is under consideration in world affairs. When these same rules are carried forward into the world of psychic endeavor (both lower and higher) then we shall have a simplification of the present confusion. In an old book written for disciples of a certain degree these words occur and are of value to all probationary and accepted disciples. The translation gives the sense, and is not literal. "Let the one who looks out take care that the window through which he gazes transmits the light of the sun. If he use it in the early dawn (of his endeavor. A. B.) let him remember that the orb is not yet risen. The clear cut outlines cannot be perceived, and wraiths and shadows, gloomy spaces and areas full of darkness as yet confuse his vision!" At the close of this sentence is found a curious symbol, which conveys to the disciple's mind the thought of "Keep silent and reserve your opinion!"
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