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Object

Yoga Sutras
Sutra 1.39

yathābhimata-dhyānād vā

Or by meditating on anything one chooses that is elevating.

This sutra emphasises the power of meditation and concentration on a desired object or chosen focus. Yathā: "Yathā" translates to "as," "just as," or "in the manner of." Abhimata: "Abhimata" means "desired," "wished for," or "loved." Dhyānāt: "Dhyānāt" is derived from "Dhyana," which means "meditation" or "profound contemplation." Vā: As mentioned before, "Vā" is a conjunction that can be translated as "or." So, when we put it all together, "yathābhimata-dhyānād vā" can be understood as "or through meditation upon the desired object." By meditating on an object, concept, mantra, deity, or any chosen point of focus, one can refine their concentration, deepen their understanding, and ultimately attain higher states of consciousness and self-realisation. The idea of "yathābhimata-dhyānād vā" suggests that different practitioners may find resonance with varying objects of meditation. Some might prefer to meditate on the form of a deity, while others may choose a mantra, a natural element, a spiritual concept, or any other object that invokes a deep sense of devotion and concentration.
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