Yoga Sutras 2.10 &2.11

2.10:Te pratiprasava heyah sukshman, In their subtle form, these obstacles can be destroyed by resolving them back into their original cause.

In sutra 2.4 we learned that the klesas (afflictions or obstacles) that have been the topic of discussion since the beginning of the second chapter, exist either in active or subtle forms. In sutra 2.10 Patanjali gives the technique for destroying the subtle form of the klesas. The five klesas as we have already discussed are sequential. Avidya (ignorance of our true nature) is the foundation and primary cause of the other klesas. Therefore "resolving them back to their original cause" refers to eradicating the primary klesa, avidya. Kaivalya (liberation or self-realization) is the goal of yoga and therefore the path of yoga is the means. When the yogi/yogini begins the practice of yoga there is the process of deactivation of the klesas. The klesas become less and less active until they reach the subtle form. Even in the subtle form they can be triggered back to the active state. This accounts for the many cases of fallen yogis-where they relapse into actions based on ignorance. The final removal of ignorance involves stabilizing the consciousness in the higher states of samadhi (see sutras 4.27-4.32). The metaphor of a seed being able to germinate is frequently used to describe this process of removing the klesas. A seed that is roasted looks like a raw seed but can't germinate anymore. Once the consciousness is stabilized in samadhi then the klesas will no longer return to the active state.

2.11:Dhyana heyas tad vrittayah, In the active state, they can be destroyed by meditation.

The prior sutra is for the already meditating yogi. This sutra is for the yogi that is embarking on the path to liberation. The inward directing of awareness is meditation. Giving the mind something to focus on and returning to that focus once it is lost. This is the technique for moving away from a life of suffering.

Patanjali seems to repeat this theme throughout the entire book. The first chapter was about achieving samadhi, which is attained through meditation. The second chapter starts with the definition of kriya yoga and that this yoga minimizes the klesas and helps attain samadhi. After defining the klesas in detail he returns to the concept of liberation. Next he introduces the concept of karma. Stayed tuned for this exciting discussion!