Yamas: Ethical Social Interactions

“The five points of yama, together with the five points of niyama, remind us of the Ten Commandments of the Christian and Jewish faiths, as well as of the ten virtues of Buddhism. In fact, there is no religion without these moral or ethical codes. All spiritual life should be based on these things. They are the foundation stones without which we can never build anything lasting. ”

-Sri Swami Satchidananda - The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

The Yamas in the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali, offers ethical and moral guidelines for one's interactions with society. It's place at the beginning of the eight limbs of yoga hints at it's importance. The way that we treat other living creatures is a window into our inner state and provides a gauge on how effective our practices are. If one is to sustain practicing these virtues alone, their lives, relationships and world around them would be substantially improved.

Here is an overview of each Yama in detail:

Ahimsa (Non-violence): Ahimsa is the most fundamental of the Yamas. It espouses the principle of non-violence in thought, word, and deed toward other creatures. This includes refraining from causing harm or injury to oneself or others, both physically and emotionally. Sutra 2.34 states that violence results in endless suffering and ignorance. Practicing ahimsa involves cultivating compassion, kindness, and understanding towards all beings, fostering an environment of peace and harmony. Our state of mind affects others nearby, and vice versa. If our mind is quiet, others around will be calm. If agitated, likewise.

Sutra 2.35 "In the presence of one firmly established in nonviolence, all hostilities cease."

Satya (Truthfulness): Satya encourages practitioners to be truthful in their thoughts, words, and deeds. It involves living with integrity and authenticity, being honest not only with others but also with oneself. Practicing satya means aligning one's words and actions with what is true and just, avoiding falsehoods, deceit, and manipulation. Satya also encompasses speaking the truth with compassion and discernment, recognizing the importance of timing and context in communication. Speech and mind as well as truth and facts must agree and conform to reality. This alignment is said to virtually guarantee that the results we expect will happen. It is also said that one who has mastered satya can make something happen by will alone, and effect a samskara in the listener that will bear fruit. Practiced in conjunction with non-violence creates a powerful force for good in the world.

Sutra 2.35 "To one established in truthfulness, actions and their results become subservient."

Asteya (Non-stealing): Asteya teaches the principle of non-stealing, which extends beyond material possessions to encompass stealing in all its forms. This includes not only refraining from taking what doesn't belong to you but also respecting the boundaries and rights of others. Asteya encourages cultivating contentment with what one has, avoiding envy, greed, and covetousness. It also involves honoring commitments, fulfilling obligations, and giving back to society.

Sutra 2.37 "To one established in non-stealing, all wealth comes."

Brahmacharya (Moderation): Brahmacharya is often translated as moderation or celibacy. While traditionally associated with celibacy, it's more broadly interpreted as practicing moderation and self-restraint in all aspects of life. This includes moderation in physical pleasures, such as food, sleep, and sensual indulgence, as well as mental and emotional pursuits. Brahmacharya encourages conserving and channeling one's energy towards spiritual growth and higher purposes, avoiding excess and imbalance.

Sutra 2.38 "By one established in continence, vigor is gained."

Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Aparigraha teaches the principle of non-possessiveness or non-attachment. This applies to material objects, our body and our thoughts. It also means not holding onto rigid opinions. It involves letting go of attachments to material possessions, relationships, and outcomes, recognizing the transient nature of the world. As we grasp for and accumulate, more time is spent maintaining them. Practicing aparigraha fosters freedom from greed, possessiveness, and clinging, allowing for greater inner peace and contentment. It encourages living in the present moment, appreciating what is, rather than constantly striving for more.

Sutra 2.39 "When non-greed is confirmed, a thorough illumination of the how and why of one's birth comes."

These five restraints provide a moral and ethical framework for yogic living, guiding practitioners towards greater self-awareness, compassion, and spiritual growth. By embodying these principles in daily life, individuals can cultivate a more harmonious relationship with themselves, others, and the world around them. In the next article, we will explore the next limb, Niyamas, in depth individually.