The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali - Softcover

Patanjali

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Softcover

ISBN 10: 1482615568 ISBN 13: 9781482615562

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2013

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The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are 196 Indian sutras (aphorisms) that constitute the foundational text of Raja Yoga. Yoga is one of the six orthodox astika schools of Hindu philosophy, which, according to the Yogatattva Upanishad, is divided into four forms – Mantrayoga, Layayoga, Hathayoga and Rajayoga – the last of which is the highest (or royal) practice. Although the Yoga Sutras have become the most important text of Yoga, the opinion of most scholars is that Patanjali was not the creator of Yoga, which existed well before him, but merely a great expounder.

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"A wonderful translation, full of contemporary insight yet luminous with eternal truth."--Jacob Needleman
The Yoga Sutras were cast in their present form in India around the third century b.c. Yoga is from the Sanskrit root meaning "union," and a sutra is a thread or aphoristic verse. The basic questions "Who am I?" "Where am I going?" "What is the purpose of life?" are asked by each new generation, and Patanjali's answers form one of the oldest and most vibrant spiritual texts in the world. He explains what yoga is, how it works, and exactly how to purify the mind and let it settle into absolute stillness. This stillness is our own Self. It is the indispensable ground for Enlightenment, which is the ultimate goal of all our aspirations.
Alistair Shearer's lucid introduction and superb translation, fully preserving Patanjali's jewel-like style, bring these ancient but vital teachings to those who seek the path of self-knowledge today.
Bell Tower's series, Sacred Teachings, offers essential spiritual classics from all traditions. May each book become a trusted companion on the way of truth, encouraging readers to study the wisdom of the ages and put it into practice each day.