Patanjali's Yoga Sutras by Swami Vivekananda

by Vivekananda

Patanjali's Yoga Sutras by Swami Vivekananda (The Theory and Practice of Yoga) ‘YOGA SUTRA’ has its roots in the depth of spirituality, It is an ancient form of living and one cannot deny its relevance and significance in today’s world, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, translated from Sanskrit to English by Swami Vivekananda is a guide to anyone who is interested in walking down the spiritual path. The Sutras discussed in the book are almost 4,000 years old and Swamiji has tried its best to present them in his native form. There are four main chapters in the Samadhi Pada, Sadhana Pada, Vibhuti Pada and Kaivalya Pada. These Padas take us through yogic teachings, some of which include the importance of meditation, ethics, physical postures, ways to increase concentration, attaining liberation of both mind and body through yoga and ultimately it takes us to the path of self-realization. The book does not only theorize spirituality and yoga, but also reinstates its practice in our daily life, because philosophy and spirituality are void without practice. There is an in-depth and insightful commentary on each of the chapters. The book defines the original philosophic and historic perspective on Yoga and does not limit itself to the physical practice of yoga, but goes beyond it, The book elevates our day-to-day life in a kind a fulfilling manner. In today's world the significance of this book is highly contextual and can change an individual's perspective towards life

Genres: Spirituality, Nonfiction

156 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 17, 2022

About the author

"Arise Awake and Stop not til the goal is reached"

Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.

Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.

Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)

Reviews

[Scottshak Scottshak · Rating 4 out of 5]

A powerhouse of knowledge! That’s the first phrase that comes to mind. The work of the genius mystic Patanjali, who probably lived around the 2nd century BCE, has been passed down through the centuries, benefiting countless souls and eventually reaching us in the form of a translated book. This edition has been simplified for us by none other than Swami Vivekananda, the great philosopher, author, and monk from India, who introduced the knowledge of Yoga and Vedanta to the West.

It is crucial to understand Yoga before diving into its practice, and this book facilitates that understanding. It addresses the what and the why, clarifying the theoretical concepts behind Yoga. The foundational ideas about Samadhi, Chitta, and Vritti need to be clear before moving on to the practical aspects, and this book provides that clarity.

If it weren’t for Swami Vivekananda, who revived the Yoga Sutras in the late 19th century, the original text might have been lost forever. This book not only includes the original Sanskrit text but also offers transliterations and translations, along with in-depth commentary that makes the material accessible. The countless possibilities Yoga offers, if followed diligently, are enough to inspire awe.

The book is divided into four sections:

• Samadhi Pada

• Sadhana Pada

• Vibhuti Pada

• Kaivalya Pada

These sections mirror the progressive stages of Yoga practice, each building on the last. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras guide the reader step-by-step, while Swami Vivekananda’s brilliant explanations help clarify the meaning of the original Sanskrit text. Without his commentary, one could easily get lost in the complexities of the Sutras.

However, this book may not be suitable for everyone, as it might confuse readers unfamiliar with basic concepts like Samyama, Purusa, or Vritti. Although these terms are thoroughly explained, they can be challenging to understand without a foundational grasp.

The greatest strength of the Yoga Sutras is that they prepare you mentally for meditation. You feel motivated and ready to bring positive change within yourself. If not becoming a Yogi, you will at least be inspired to incorporate beneficial practices into your life. This book is highly recommended for anyone practicing Yoga or captivated by its teachings.

As they say, this is the OG—where it all began.

[SHVETAL · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a good read about spiritualism from the Vedic perspective and is logical enough to be absorbed by most people even today. However, there are certain aspects of yogi and samyam which talk of unheard capabilities, beyond science.

[A. B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vivekananda is always a joy to read in his calm, confident clarity.

[Anjalica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome read