ISHVARA PRANIDHANA
Surrender to the Supreme
Here we are at the end of the path for our Yamas & Niyamas series. Last but certainly not least, the fifth Niyama is Ishvara Pradnidhana, meaning surrender to God. “Ishvara” is literally “owner or ruler”, but converts to God, the Divine, Higher Power - whatever term feels best for you. “Pranidhana” could mean a vow taken by a bodhisattva to commit their lives to helping others achieve enlightenment or liberation. The word does have a wide variety of translations, such as fixing on, laying on, applying, desire, prayer. The blanket term I like to use it “surrendering to God”.
“Ishvara Pranidhana means surrendering our personal will to divine intelligence so we can fulfill our destiny.” — Donna Farhi
In ancient India, the traditions were to meditate, repeat mantras or chants, use mudras and pray. We can absolutely still use these techniques today, if that is comfortable to you. Yoga in no way forces a “god” or religion. “In yoga philosophy, one does not have to choose a personal deity of focus in order to practice surrender in this way, but an idea or spiritual wisdom that gives one inspiration.” — From Yogapedia
This Niyama summons us to divulge into some personal introspection. This helps us remember and understand that the world does not revolve around “me”, that there is a force or presence outside of us that we might never fathom, and the bigger picture of life can be incomprehensible. According to the yoga philosopher, Sri Swami Satchidananda, Ishvara Pranidhana also signifies offering our actions to ‘the divine nature’ and humanity; remembering that we are all one.
“Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” — Corrie Ten Boom
Benefits of practicing Ishvara Pranidhana:
Strengthens self-love as expectations are released
Cultivates gratitude towards others
Exercises devotion and prayer (or meditation)
Surrender to attachments
Remember, transformation happens on the other side of surrender. We must trust that no matter what life looks like right now, we are divinely guided and things will work out for the best.
On Ishvara Pranidhana:
“Be ground. Be crumbled, so wildflowers will come up where you are. You’ve been stony for too many years. Try something different. Surrender.” — Rumi
“Through wholehearted dedication (ishvara pranidhana), we become intoxicated with the Divine. Devotion is the key to unlocking our hearts.” — Nischala Joy Devi
And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. — Anais Nin
