Raja Yoga Q & A

by Swami Sivananda

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON MIND-CONTROL

QUESTION: HOW TO CONTROL THE MIND?

Answer: Enquire into the origin of thought. Find out from where the thoughts emanate. Switch off that source.

Q. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DIFFICULT AND SUBTLE PROCESS. KINDLY SUGGEST SOME METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE MIND WHICH AN ORDINARY PERSON LIKE ME CAN ADOPT.

A. Japa of the Lord’s Name is the best for you, and for the vast majority of mankind. Steadily increase the time devoted to Japa and meditation. At the same time, cultivate Vairagya (dispassion). Pranayama also will help to a great extent. The combined method – synthesis of Japa, Dhyana, Pranayama, cultivation of virtues and eradication of vices – is the best.

Q. I AM A DEVOTEE OF LORD SIVA. SHOULD I GO TO TEMPLES DEDICATED TO LORD VISHNU OR DEVI ALSO; AND IF I GO THERE, HOW SHALL I WORSHIP THE DEITY THERE?

A. Yes, you should never miss an opportunity of visiting and worshipping at any shrine you come across. When you go to a temple of Lord Vishnu or Devi, worship Lord Siva Himself there. Look upon the Deity in the temple as another – form of Lord Siva. If your father came to you in the attire of a High Court Judge, or (if he is an actor in a drama) if he came to you in the dress of a female, will you turn away from him? You will greet him as your own father in any case. Similar should be your attitude in worshipping the Lord. God is one. He is worshipped and adored variously by various people.

Q. I RECITE VISHNUSAHASRANAMA EVERY DAY. HAVE I TO MEDITATE UPON THE MEANING OF EACH WORD AS I GO ON RECITING IT?

A. This is not possible, unless you are a Satavadhani. When you recite the Vishnusahasranama, have Saguna Upasana. Meditate on the form of Lord Narayana. When you have leisure or during the practice of meditation, you can select a few Slokas or Names and meditate over the meaning.

Q. IN TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD IT HAS BEEN SAID: – FIRST THERE WAS ASAT. FROM ASAT, SAT CAME. HOW IS THIS?

A. This is said from the point of view of the common man. To him, what he does not see or experience is – Asat. To him, the Supreme Existence is – Asat inasmuch as it is beyond the comprehension of the senses, mind and intellect. – Sat, in this Mantra refers to the manifested world. To the man of gross understanding, the world of names and forms is the – Sat, because he is able to experience its reality through his senses. Therefore it is said that in the beginning there was – Asat (i.e., That was which you, with your senses and intellect, regard as non-existent); and from that – Sat (i.e., that which you regard as existent) came.

Raja Yoga Q & A – Questions & Answers for Spiritual Understanding

Raja Yoga Q & A is a helpful way to understand the practical and philosophical aspects of the ancient path of meditation. Many spiritual seekers have questions about concentration, self-discipline, mental purity, and the purpose of meditation. Through simple questions and meaningful answers, these teachings become easier to understand and apply in everyday life. The wisdom shared by Swami Sivananda encourages sincere aspirants to cultivate inner peace through regular practice, patience, and unwavering faith.

One of the most common questions in Raja Yoga Q & A is about the true goal of Raja Yoga. The answer is that it aims to calm the restless mind and reveal the divine Self that already exists within every individual. When the mind becomes pure and steady, higher awareness naturally shines forth. This transformation is not achieved overnight but through continuous effort, ethical living, and disciplined meditation.

Another important topic discussed in Raja Yoga Q & A is the role of concentration. A wandering mind cannot experience lasting peace, whereas a focused mind becomes a powerful instrument for spiritual growth. Swami Sivananda explained that concentration develops gradually through regular meditation, prayer, self-control, and positive thinking. Every sincere attempt strengthens the mind and prepares it for deeper states of contemplation.

Many seekers also wonder whether householders can successfully follow this spiritual path. The answer is encouraging. Raja Yoga does not demand withdrawal from worldly responsibilities. Instead, it teaches balance, self-discipline, truthfulness, compassion, and moderation while performing daily duties. Every action can become a means of inner purification when carried out with selflessness and awareness. Spiritual progress depends more on attitude than on external circumstances.

Questions often arise about obstacles such as laziness, doubt, fear, and mental distraction. Swami Sivananda advised practitioners to overcome these challenges through perseverance, regular spiritual study, association with noble people, and unwavering faith in God. Every obstacle becomes an opportunity to develop greater strength and determination. Even a few minutes of sincere daily meditation can gradually transform one’s character and outlook on life.

A frequent concern is whether meditation alone is enough for realization. The teachings explain that meditation must be supported by moral living, purity of thought, devotion, and selfless service. These qualities prepare the heart and mind for higher spiritual experiences. True wisdom blossoms when knowledge is combined with disciplined practice and sincere love for the Divine.

The timeless teachings preserved by Devotional India continue to inspire readers who wish to deepen their understanding of yoga and spiritual life. By presenting practical guidance in a clear and accessible manner, these teachings encourage seekers to develop patience, humility, and inner strength. Devotional India serves as a valuable resource for those exploring the wisdom of Swami Sivananda and applying it in daily living. With sincere effort, steady practice, and faith, every aspirant can move closer to lasting peace, self-realization, and the highest spiritual fulfillment.