तज्जपस्तदर्थभावनम् ॥ २८॥
पदविभाग: तत्-जपः, तत्-अर्थ-भावनम्।
अन्वय: तज्जपः (तस्य प्रणवस्य जपः) तदर्थभावनम् (तस्य ईश्वरस्य भावनम्)।
प्रतिपदार्थ: तत् = its (referring to OM from the previous verse), जपः = continuous repetition, तत् = its (referring to OM’s), अर्थ = meaning / signified essence (which is Ishvara), भावनम् = dwelling upon / absorbing into / deep contemplation.
तात्पर्यम्: The repetition of OM (should be done with) deep contemplation on its meaning.
Further context on the 28th Sutra from Patanjali’s Yogasutras
Japa is not merely the repetition of a word. In the yogic context, it is the rhythmic chanting of a sound to create a continuous acoustic loop within the mind. The repetitive friction of the sound OM acts as a powerful anchor.
The verse also asks us to actively contemplate its deeper meaning. In India, the sound of OM (ॐ) is considered primordial. It is the very sound of the universe. Osho explains this concept by pointing out that it takes two physical objects clashing together to produce a sound, like two hands clapping. But is there a sound produced without the clashing of objects? Yogis say there is, and that uncreated sound is the subtle hum of the universe itself, known as AUM.
The mind must dwell on this idea of an all-pervading background frequency, recognizing that we ourselves are entirely composed of it. With adequate japa, the mind gradually attunes to this cosmic resonance and moves closer to Samadhi.
Therefore, this active contemplation, known as भावनम् (bhāvanam), means something highly specific. As you chant OM, you intentionally saturate your mind with the feeling of absolute purity, perfect stillness, and freedom from the ego.
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