“Yoga is the union of the individual soul with the supreme consciousness.”
This isn't a verse from the Shiva Samhita. It is an idea from commentary on the text. For the text's own words, see the verses we've referenced.
About the text: Shiva Samhita
The Shiva Samhita is a Sanskrit hatha yoga text of unknown authorship, framed as Shiva teaching Parvati. Scholars date it anywhere from about the 14th to the 17th century. Its five chapters move from nondual philosophy to the subtle body, postures, mudras and mantra, and it says householders can practise yoga too.
More from the Shiva Samhita
- “Through the practice of Hatha Yoga, the body becomes strong, the mind becomes steady, and the soul attains peace.”
- “The yogi who is not affected by praise or blame, who is free from attachment, is truly wise.”
- “A true yogi is not concerned with the world; he is only concerned with the realization of the self.”
- “When the body is healthy, the mind is clear, and the spirit is calm, one attains the state of yoga.”
- “To conquer the mind is the highest victory. One who has mastered his mind is called a true yogi.”
- “A yogi who has attained perfect concentration is like a lighted lamp in a windless place—steady and undisturbed.”