The absence of the spirit of renunciation in the practice of yoga, as highlighted by Sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, can lead to several significant obstacles in the path of achieving the ultimate goal of yoga, which is the suppression of the modifications of the mind (chitta-vritti-nirodha).
Continued Rise of Mental Modifications: According to
Patanjali, the modifications of the mind, or chitta vrittis, persist as long as
their underlying causes exist. One primary cause is the desire for sensory
pleasures, known as kama. If the spirit of renunciation is lacking, individuals
may struggle to control their desires, leading to a continuous influx of mental
modifications.
Lack of Control Over Desires (Kama): The spirit of
renunciation, referred to as 'virati' in the context of yoga, involves
cultivating dispassion and detachment from worldly pleasures. Without this
essential aspect, practitioners may find it challenging to control their
desires (kama), hindering their progress in restraining the fluctuations of the
mind.
Obstacle to Disentanglement from Worldly Attachments:
Renunciation is not merely about abandoning physical possessions but also about
letting go of emotional and mental attachments. Without a genuine spirit of
renunciation, individuals may remain entangled in worldly affairs, making it
difficult to achieve the necessary mental clarity and focus for yoga practice.
A State of 'Avirati' - Lack of Renunciation: The absence of
virati, or the spirit of renunciation, leads to a state called 'avirati.' This
state becomes a serious obstacle to yoga, as practitioners may find themselves
trapped in a cycle of desires and distractions, preventing the mind from
achieving the stillness and concentration required for successful meditation.
Distraction from the Ultimate Goal: Yoga aims at the union
of individual consciousness with the universal consciousness. The lack of
renunciation can divert practitioners from this ultimate goal, as the mind
remains preoccupied with worldly concerns and desires rather than turning
inward to attain self-realization.
In summary, the absence of the spirit of renunciation poses
a significant challenge to the practice of yoga. Cultivating a genuine spirit
of dispassion and detachment is crucial for overcoming obstacles, achieving
mental control, and progressing towards the ultimate goal of yoga – the
cessation of mental modifications and union with the divine.