Definition - What does Uparati mean?
Uparati is a Sanskrit word that means “quieting,” “ceasing” or “desisting from sensual pleasures or worldly actions.” It is one of the six virtues in Vedanta and Jnana yoga that collectively comprise shat-sampat, which is one of the Four Pillars of Knowledge (Sadhana Chatushtaya). Jnana yogis use these virtues to overcome the illusion of the physical world.
More specifically, uparati is the renouncing of anything that stands in the way of the yogi's dharma, or duty. Shat-sampat is mental training that allows you to develop mental discipline.
Yogapedia explains Uparati
Through uparati, the yogi obtains inner silence. Those who practice the shat-sampat believe that enlightenment is only possible if the yogi renounces worldly encumbrances. This allows the yogi to pursue higher knowledge while maintaining stability, inner poise and balance. In other words, you learn to re-program your mind.
The other five shat-sampat virtues are:
- Shama (calmness, peace of mind)
- Dama (control of the senses)
- Titiksha (perseverance)
- Shraddha (trust and faith in one's spiritual path)
- Samadhana (total concentration and focus)