Gheranda's Definition of Pāśh
In yogic philosophy, particularly referencing texts like the Gheranda Samhita, the term Pāśh has a specific conceptual meaning.
Gheranda explains Pāśh as:
- Maya: This represents the principle of illusion or the cosmic delusion that veils the ultimate reality. It signifies the bondage created by attachment to the material world and the ego.
Examining the given options in the context of Gheranda's teachings:
- Maya: This aligns with the concept of illusion and bondage explained by Gheranda.
- Vayu: This refers to breath or vital energy, distinct from Pāśh.
- Hatha: This denotes a specific branch of yoga, combining ha (sun) and tha (moon).
- Rope: While the word 'pasha' can mean rope in classical Sanskrit, in the philosophical context of Gheranda, it refers to Maya, not a literal rope.
Thus, according to Gheranda, Pāśh is fundamentally understood as Maya.