Eight Supernatural Powers of the Yogi

In Hindu scriptures, especially in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Bhagavata Purana, and other texts, it is said that a true yogi who attains perfection in meditation and self-discipline develops Ashta Siddhi – the eight great supernatural powers.

Here are the Eight Siddhis (Supernatural Powers):

1. Aṇimā (अणिमा) – Power of becoming minute

• Ability to reduce one’s body to the size of an atom.

• The yogi can become so small that he can enter the tiniest particle of matter.

2. Mahimā (महिमा) – Power of becoming huge

• Ability to expand one’s body infinitely large.

• Symbolizes the vastness of cosmic consciousness.

3. Garimā (गरिमा) – Power of becoming heavy

• The yogi can make himself extremely heavy, even unmovable like a mountain.

4. Laghimā (लघिमा) – Power of becoming light

• The ability to become lighter than air.

• The yogi can levitate and move freely in space.

5. Prāpti (प्राप्ति) – Power of obtaining anything

• Ability to acquire anything desired, from anywhere.

• This includes knowledge of past, present, and future, and the capacity to reach distant places instantly.

6. Prākāmya (प्राकाम्य) – Power of irresistible will

• Whatever the yogi desires becomes fulfilled.

• For example: the ability to live underwater, walk through walls, or manifest hidden things.

7. Īśitva (ईशित्व) – Lordship or mastery over creation

• Power to control and rule over the forces of nature.

• The yogi becomes like a divine ruler, commanding elements at will.

8. Vaśitva (वशित्व) – Power to subdue or control

• Ability to control the senses, minds, and even elements of nature.

• The yogi can influence living beings and bring harmony in creation.

These eight siddhis symbolize mastery over physical laws, mind, and nature. But Hindu scriptures also caution:
A true yogi does not misuse these powers, as they are by-products of spiritual practice, not the final goal. The real goal is self-realization and union with the Divine.

The Hazards of supernatural powers gained through the practice of Meditation

The readers may think that such supernatural powers are impossible to attain. But the lives of genuine saints, prophets and Godmen belonging to all religions, bear testimony to the validity of these claims. Such powers can only be attained through intense concentration and many years of steady and relentless spiritual practice

The acquisition of one or more of these powers initially generates enthusiasm in spiritual aspirants to continue with their practice. But once attained, these powers should not be misused or used permanently before attaining spiritual enlightenment. Lord Krisna, a Divine Incarnation, told His devotee Uddhava that anyone who craves supernatural powers, can not have God-vision. Lord Buddha asked one of his close disciples not to use any siddhis because that would be extremely detrimental to his spiritual life. Only people who have reached their goal of spiritual life know how to use these powers without harming themselves or others.