Characteristics of Hathapradipika

Sahay G. S.

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Four Limbs of Hathayoga - Svatmarama has divided this Hathayoga into four limbs. Or components. They are Asana, Kumbhaka, Mudra and Nadanusandhana. This makes it more simple and precise in its presentation in comparison to those who accept limbs of Hathayoga to be six (Gorakshashatakam) or more. Not only that he mentions four limbs but also has made it very clear that these limbs have sequential relationship.( H.P.1 / 56 )

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Eight Kumbhakas-Hathayoga , as the name itself suggests- Yoga through Hatha. Hatha means control or balance of Ha and Tha .As we all know that Ha stands for Pingala nadi or right nostril and Tha stands for Ida Nadi or left nostril. He has aptly justified the title of the Text by elaborating eight varieties of Sahita Kumbhaka which result into Kevala Kumbhaka (H.P. 2 / 71). We do not find such clear and unambiguous descriptions of the techniques in any other Hathayoga Texts.

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Hathayoga for Rajayoga - Hathayoga should be practiced with a goal to attain Rajayoga- has been reminded repeatedly by Svatmarama in Hathapradipika (H.P. 1/1, 2 / 76, 4 / 79). It suggests that even at the time of Svatmarama, people were engaged in practicing Hathayoga for physical purpose which was actually condemned by him when he says - they are only Hathakarmin. He gave highest importance to the attainment of Rajayoga through Hathayog

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Synthesis between Muni and Yogi Tradition - He has tried to establish a synthesis between the traditions of Muni and Yogi. In the context of Asana, Svatmarama says that Asana accepted by the traditions of Munis and Yogis both are being described here.( H.P.1/18). Here it cant be said as to tradition of Muni refers to which group of Asanas. Perhaps, Svatmarama is referring to Yoga Vasishtha but nothing can be said with certainty in this respect

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Dos and Donts - The description of dos and donts (H.P. 1 / 15, 16) are very important contribution of svatmarama. It is often said that Hathayoga has no consideration for Yamas and Niyamas. I believe that by mentioning dos and donts, Svatmarama has made the practitioners aware about certain code of conduct to be followed essentially for the success in the attainment of Yogic end without mentioning the term Yamas and Niyamas. Not only this, Svatmarama has clearly warned the aspirants to keep themselves away from the vicinity of opposite sex. (H.P. 1 / 61) and even used the word brahmachari(H.P. 1 / 57 ). This is one of the most important characteristics of Hathapradipika.

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Secular presentation - Another important characteristic with regard to Hathapradipika is that this is perhaps the only text on Hathayoga that seems to have consciously remained secular in its presentation of yogic techniques and specially the techniques of Kumbhakas. Almost all the Yogic Texts present its technique with the application of certain seed mantra or AUM also whereas Svatmarama has not even referred or given any indication of such application in the practice of Pranayama. Perhaps , this is the reason why that Hathapradipika is most favored Hathayogic Text among the Indians and non Indians both.

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Mitahara an important concept - Yogic texts have special consideration for Mitahara. Mitahara means controlled diet. In yogic literature, it means balanced diet in accordance with the Yogic norms. Modern nutritionists also make a prescription of balanced diet depending on the individuals structure i.e. height and weight and nature of job. This may include vegetarian / non vegetarian food or both, because the idea is to provide requisite quantity of protein , vitamin, fat, calorie etc. to maintain the health. But when yoga talks about Mitahara, they take into consideration the requirement of the practice as well as the selection of food must not be against the norms of yoga. This we find in the concept of mitahara in yogic texts. Svatmarama has given elaborate description of mitahara.

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
Nadanusandhana a synonym of Samadhi Consideration of Nadanusandhana as an independent limb of Hathayoga is also Svatmaramas contribution. We do not find Nadanusandhana as having independent status in other Hathayogic literature. Even Gheranda Samhita ( G.S. 5 / 73.74 ) has not given it an independent status and included under Bhramari Kumbhaka.( 5/73-77) Nadanusandhana has been described in Hathapradipika as fourth limb of Hathayoga and has considered it best among all the methods for Laya or Samadhi ( H.P. 4 / 66)

Characteristics of Hathapradipika
5th Chapter of Hathapradipika - Last but not the least and even it may a be matter of dispute as to 5th chapter of Hathapradipika is authentic or not but from content point of view, this chapter of Hathapradipika of Kaivalyadhama publication has immense value. It gives some fundamental approach to Yogic therapeutics which can be further elaborated and expanded for broader and wider application of Yoga in the field of healing also.

Characteristics of Hathapradipika

Characteristics of Hathapradipika