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Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is a foundational text of classical yoga philosophy, composed by the sage Patanjali around the 2nd century BCE to 4th century CE. It is a concise compilation of 195 sutras (aphorisms) that systematically outline the path of yoga as a means to achieve mental discipline, self-realization, and ultimately liberation (kaivalya). The text does not focus on physical postures alone, but rather describes a complete eight-limbed path (Ashtanga Yoga) that includes ethical guidelines, meditation, and deep concentration. It is one of the most authoritative and respected works in Indian philosophical and spiritual literature.
The Yoga Sutras serve as a manual for the mind, guiding practitioners on how to quiet mental fluctuations (chitta vritti) to experience the true Self. Patanjali defines yoga as “Yogas chitta vritti nirodhah” – the stilling of the modifications of the mind. The text is divided into four chapters, each addressing a specific aspect of the yogic journey: what yoga is, how to practice it, the powers that may arise, and the nature of liberation. The teachings are rooted in Samkhya philosophy but emphasize personal effort and discipline. This text laid the groundwork for many later interpretations of yoga and remains a cornerstone in both philosophical study and modern yoga practice.
Samadhi Pada
This chapter explains the goal of yoga—to still the mind and attain samadhi, a deep state of meditative absorption. It defines yoga, describes different types of samadhi, and introduces methods to calm the mind through practice and detachment.
Sadhana Pada
Focused on yogic practice, this chapter presents the Ashtanga Yoga (Eight Limbs of Yoga), including moral principles, postures, breath control, and meditation. It emphasizes discipline, effort, and inner purification as the path to spiritual growth.
Vibhuti Pada
This section explores the powers (siddhis) that arise from advanced concentration, meditation, and union. While these abilities can seem supernatural, Patanjali warns that they are distractions from the true goal—liberation.
Kaivalya Pada
The final chapter describes liberation (kaivalya), the ultimate freedom where the soul is completely detached from matter and resides in pure consciousness. It discusses how the mind dissolves and the Self remains in its true, independent state.