Tapas is the third Niyama, described by Maharishi Patanjali, in The Yoga Sutras. Many times, you may see the description of Tapas as "austerity." Unfortunately, most people still do not understand because Tapas cannot be explained in one word or sentence. Tapas means "heat" and it is a form of penance, which causes realization of self and of God.
Tapas is a spiritual discipline with the objective of self-transformation and spiritual purification. It may consist of intense prayer, meditation, and asana practice. Tapas may also consist of corporal mortification. In the West, Opus Dei (a conservative Roman Catholic organization) has received recent publicity for the practice of punishing the body.
Whether you believe in penance, prayer, meditation, or practicing 108 Sun Salutations per day, it does not matter. The importance of Tapas in everyday life is extraordinary.
Therefore, consider the following example of Tapas in 21st century life.
A wealthy man had worked hard his entire to life (Tapas) to develop a prosperous business and amass a great fortune. He was charitable in his giving of time, material, and money to help the poor (Karma Yoga). He had two children, who he loved, and praised.
He wanted to give them everything he did not have as a child, so he sent them to the best private schools and universities, money could buy. When they returned, they began to sell drugs in their father's business. The government "crashed the door down," confiscated the family fortune, and auctioned off their possessions. As a result this man is destitute.
Where did this man go wrong? Our children must also learn the value of Tapas. How many times have we heard of family fortunes squandered away at gambling tables or on a drug habit? Why does this happen? Most people cannot truly appreciate what is "given" to them.
© Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html
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