Yoga Sutra 35

Sutra 35

When nonviolence in speech, thought and action is established, one’s aggressive nature is relinquished and others abandon hostility in one’s presence.

Have you ever tried to fight with someone who will not fight back? Unfortunately, I have been on both sides of this equation and being at peace does help defuse a heated situation. Jesus teaches us to love one another, even to the point of offering food and shelter to our worst enemy.

Romans 12 17-21

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Don’t take revenge my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head” do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

God teaches us to be self-controlled and even more kind in the face of evil. The Bible and this sutra are in agreement.