“Different factors affect the mind and
whatever affects the mind affects me,
since we are linked to the mind.
The mind is always in some relationship,
even silence, Maunam,
will become an object for the mind.
So, if we can look at
something auspicious,
I will not be affected.
This is the notion of Īśvara.
However, when such a possibility
doesn’t exist and a person cannot
link with undivided attention,
we require some other means.
e.g. Arjuna doubts Kṛṣṇa
Therefore, we have to accept some other means.
So while Īśvara Praṇidhānā is the highest,
the reality is that other means need
to be offered to quieten the mind.
Here it is Citta Prasādanam.”
– TKV Desikachar on Yoga Sūtra Chapter One verse 33