The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
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Posted by Jim Down in Books section |
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Yoga and meditation are brought forth by Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras and most modern Yoga systems and teachings are based on what Patanjali wrote.BKS Iyengar has been practicing and teaching Yoga for more than 60 years, so it is only natural that he should give us his work on the Sutras.
As all readers who really delve into this book will find, the sutras are very dynamic, their interpretations changeable, deeper and richer as the reader matures. This is the kind of book that never has to leave your side. You will be surprised how something that you've read again and again all of a sudden has new meaning and gives new perspective to your life and hopes.
It remains surprising that so few Westerners have translated or commented on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which play a significant role in the transition from a more primitive Hinduism to a mature Vedantaism. Translations are not difficult (these sutras are one-line aphorisms) but capturing the essence and understanding the context is essential.
Of existing translations with commentary, Taimni’s has the virtue of scholarship, even objectivity. He understands the highest achievements of his author and of the Vedanta tradition. Still, it is a large, even ponderous book, written in big block paragraphs that run to wordiness and repetition. There is no historical or bibliographical apparatus, and the novice will be quickly put off. But Patanjali is important enough to pursue, and this is, with all its shortcomings, the best available version.
Sri Swami Satchidananda is a monk who has dedicated his life to the cause of peace, both individual and universal. A world-renowned spiritual teacher and ecumenical leader, Sri Swamiji has lectured widely around the globe at the invitation of individuals, groups and organizations of all backgrounds and beliefs.
The Yoga Sutras are a complete manual for the study and practice of yoga. In his commentaries and new translation of this age-old text, Swami Satchidananda shares his own practical, down-to-earth advice on mastering the mind and achieving physical, mental and emotional harmony in life through applying the ancient, yet eternally useful, techniques of Raja Yoga.
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