"Nirvichara Samapthi" refers to a state of profound mental absorption or concentration achieved through the practice of Yoga, specifically as described in the Yoga Sutras attributed to the ancient sage Patanjali. In the Yoga Sutras (1.42-44), Patanjali delineates four types of samapatti, or states of absorption: savitarka and nirvitarka, savichara and nirvichara.
- Savitarka: This is the state of concentration where the mind is focused on an object along with its associated reasoning or conceptualization.
- Nirvitarka: In this state, concentration deepens to the point where conceptualization or reasoning is absent, but awareness of the object remains.
- Savichara: This is a state where the mind is absorbed in an object along with subtle thought processes or reflection.
- Nirvichara: Nirvichara samapti denotes a deeper level of concentration where the mind is fully absorbed in the object without any subtle thought processes. It is a state of pure awareness devoid of any mental activity related to the object.
In the context of the eight limbs (ashtangas) of Yoga
described in the Yogasutras, the final three limbs—dharana (concentration),
dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (absorption)—are collectively referred to as
"samyama" (Yogasutras 3.4). Samyama involves the focused application
of these three stages of mental discipline to attain profound states of
absorption and insight.
When samyama is applied to the subtle elements of the object
of concentration, and the mind becomes completely absorbed in the object,
transcending all other mental processes, it is termed "nirvichara
samapthi." In this state, the practitioner experiences a profound
stillness and clarity of mind, with the object of concentration shining forth
in pure awareness.
Nirvichara samapthi represents an advanced stage of yogic
practice, where the practitioner attains a state of pure consciousness, free
from the fluctuations of the mind, and experiences a deep union with the object
of concentration. It is considered a significant milestone on the path towards
self-realization and spiritual awakening in the Yogic tradition.