The first thing that came to mind when I heard the word YAMA was the Hindu mythological death deity Yamadharmaraja. I assumed it was a term associated with death, referring to the terrifying person who comes to take souls away. I was, of course, perplexed. How could something as kind and affectionate as “You Are My All” be represented by something that sounded like Yamadharmaraja? However, as I dug further, I saw how fundamentally different these two definitions are. This blog chronicles my quest to comprehend the profundity and beauty of the expression “YAMA – You Are My All”.

"Love is a better teacher than duty". – Albert Einstein

The First Perplexity

I was conflicted as soon as I heard YAMA. Because I grew up hearing tales of Yamadharmaraja, the god of life and death, I connected the name to conclusions, rigorous justice, and the unavoidable aspect of existence. The word seemed heavy, almost menacing. However, I was later given a different explanation: YAMA might mean “You Are My All”. That caught me completely off guard! How could a phrase that I had previously considered to be so harsh and definitive suddenly acquire a connotation that is brimming with devotion and love?

Find Your Own Meaning

After I came to terms with this new understanding, my perspective on YAMA began to shift drastically. The words “You Are My All” are quite lovely. Love, connection, and the sensation that something or someone has such a special place in your life that everything else becomes inconspicuous are all discussed.

"Love is not about possession. Love is about appreciation." – Osho

YAMA, in this sense, offers life purpose rather than taking it away. The people or interests that give your heart meaning are what matter. When it comes to relationships, saying “You Are My All” is the epitome of commitment. It's letting someone know that you feel complete when they're around. Instead of worrying about losing them, you should celebrate their significance in your life.

YAMA as Fearless Love

Further contemplation led me to conclude that the shift in meaning from Yamadharmaraja to “You Are My All” is, in fact, highly meaningful. It illustrates the transition from fear to love. Love and dedication give us the strength to live fully even when death and endings are unavoidable. YAMA as “You Are My All” turns into a potent statement of fulfillment rather than loss.

“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams”. – Dr. Seuss

This expression is not just about romantic love. It applies to anything that brings you joy, whether it is a personal vocation, a hobby, or a friendship. YAMA is a celebration of connection, commitment, and the sense that something or someone completes you in a way that nothing else can. This is what makes it so beautiful.

YAMA as My Source of Light

Now, when I say "YAMA", I consider what or whom has become my "all". It might be my friends, family, or a goal I'm pursuing. It can be my love of writing or the individuals that motivate me. I am reminded of the things that make life genuinely worthwhile by YAMA. According to this new perspective, YAMA is about love that persists through hardships and time rather than ends.

“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return”. – Eden Ahbez

A Path from Ignorance to Commitment

In my perspective, YAMA's development has been enlightening. What began as an idea associated with ends and fear evolved into one of unending loyalty, love, and hope. I now view YAMA as a pillar, a source of support in the form of connections or interests that provide purpose to life.

The next time you hear the word "YAMA", don't be scared to associate it with love. It's about giving your heart to something or someone who becomes your “All”, not about taking anything away. It is about love that is eternal, limitless, and unconditional.

What is your YAMA? Why do you feel that when you put your all into something, life becomes richer and more meaningful? YAMA is all about life, not death, and the love that makes it all worthwhile, so cherish that connection, no matter what or who it is.