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Satya, truth, is the second of the yamas identified by Patañjali in his Yoga Sutras:
2.29 The eight limbs of Union are self-restraint in actions, fixed observance, posture, regulation of energy, mind-control in sense engagements, concentration, meditation, and realization.
2.30 Self-restraint in actions includes abstention from violence, from falsehoods, from stealing, from sexual engagements, and from acceptance of gifts.
2.31 These five willing abstentions are not limited by rank, place, time or circumstance and constitute the Great Vow.Yoga Sutras of Patañjali, 2:29-31
Patañjali touches on each of the yamas and says this of satya:
2.36 When one is firmly established in speaking truth, the fruits of action become subservient to him.
Yoga Sutras of Patañjali, 2:36
Another translation says that this means that when one is established in the truth, then everything he says will come true or come to pass. It sounds like some claim to mystical powers of prophecy but it really isn't. I know that if I drop a raw egg to the floor, it will crack. I am obviously not predicting the future, just stating the truth. Always speaking the truth is a simple thing, needing so little explanation and yet requiring such great discipline.
If one were only required to speak the truth, this would be a simple request. However, one is required first to practice ahimsa and then satya. What if speaking the truth will cause harm, what does one do then? What if speaking the truth would cause harm but would also bring about much good? What if speaking the truth and remaining silent both will cause harm? Another aspect of this is the way the truth is spoken. If spoken with criticism, even the most joyous truth is harmful and if spoken with great compassion, even the most terrible truth is uplifting.
Namasté
