Shad-Sampat is the
sixfold virtue. It consists of Sama, Dama, Uparati, Titiksha, Sraddha
and Samadhana. All these six qualities are taken as one because they are
calculated to bring about mental control and discipline, without which
concentration and meditation are impossible.
Sama is serenity or
tranquillity of mind which is brought about through the eradication of desires.
Dama is rational
control of the senses.
Uparati is satiety; it
is resolutely turning the mind away from desire for sensual enjoyment. This
state of mind comes naturally when one has practiced Viveka, Vairagya, Sama and
Dama.
Titiksha is the power
of endurance. An aspirant should patiently bear the pairs of opposites such as
heat and cold, pleasure and pain, etc.
Sraddha is intense
faith in the word of the Guru, in Vedantic scriptures and, above all, in one's
own self. It is not blind faith but is based on accurate reasoning, evidence
and experience. As such, it is lasting, perfect and unshakable. Such a faith is
capable of achieving anything.
Samadhana is fixing the
mind on Brahman or the Self, without allowing it to run towards objects. The
mind is free from anxiety amid pains and troubles. There is stability, mental
poise and indifference amid pleasures. The aspirant has neither like nor
dislikes. He has great inner strength and enjoys unruffled peace of mind, due
to the practices of Sama, Dama, Uparati, Titiksha and Sraddha.
Excerpts from:
Jnana Yoga by Swami
Sivananda
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