Asteya-Yama, Non-stealing by Sharath Jois

Here is Asteya one of the Yamas from the ashtanga yoga eight limbs.

This is from Sharath's book Astanga yoga Anusthana. I have heard him discuss some of the things mentioned here, including the stealing of poses. I think if we could all practice this to the best of our ability (both in and out of the yoga community), life would indeed be a better place. I think quite often non-stealing is associated with material theft. This item clearly defines a number of areas to be considered.

"Asteya means non stealing property or wealth that belongs to others. This includes not stealing work, ideas or even attempting to perform Asana that are not taught to you. If you practice non-stealing, you will reap all the gems of life, which are not necessary monetary. Real gems are peace of mind, joy and ultimate happiness. According to the yogis, there is no gem like the peace of mind and ultimate joy that we can attain through spiritual practice, and non-attachment, Indeed, non-attachment is probably the most effective antidote to the desire to steal, for the desire to possess comes to us only when we succumb to forms of attachments."
Sharath Jois

asteyapratishaayam sarvaratnopasthanam YS 2.37
When one is established in non-stealing, all jewels present themselves.

Comments

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