This pocket edition offers a convenient format for this ageless guide and companion to the student on the Yogic path. Includes the full text of this classic Yoga work, along with brief commentary from a revered master of Raja Yoga.

What happens as we grow spiritually? Is there a step-by-step process that everyone goes through—all spiritual seekers, including those of any or no religious persuasion—as they gradually work their way upward, until they achieve the highest state of Self-realization? About 2200 years ago, a great spiritual master of India named Patanjali described this process, and presented humanity with a clear-cut, step-by-step outline of how all truth seekers and saints achieve divine union. He called this universal inner experience and process “yoga” or “union.” His collection of profound aphorisms—a true world scripture—has been dubbed Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Unfortunately, since that time many scholarly translators with little or no spiritual realization have written commentaries on Patanjali's writings that have succeeded only in burying his pithy insights in convoluted phrases like “becomes assimilated with transformations” and “the object alone shines without deliberation.” How can any reader understand Patanjali's original meaning when he or she has to wade through such bewildering terminology? Thankfully, a great modern yoga master—Paramhansa Yogananda, author of the classic Autobiography of a Yogi—has cut through the scholarly debris and resurrected Patanjali's original teachings and revelations. Now, in Demystifying Patanjali, Swami Kriyananda, a direct disciple of Yogananda, shares his guru's crystal clear and easy-to-grasp explanations of Patanjali's aphorisms. As Kriyananda writes in his introduction, “My Guru personally shared with me some of his most important insights into these sutras. During the three and a half years I lived with him, he also went with me at great length into the basic teachings of yoga. “I was able, moreover, to ask my Guru personally about many of the subjects covered by Patanjali. His explanations have lingered with me, and have been a priceless help in the [writing of this book].”

A contemporary interpretation of the foundational text for the practice of yoga. Patañjali’s Yoga Sutra (second century CE) is the basic text of one of the nine canonical schools of Indian philosophy. In it the legendary author lays down the blueprint for success in yoga; now practised the world over. Patañjali draws upon many ideas of his time; and the result is a unique work of Indian moral philosophy that has been the foundational text for the practice of yoga since. The Yoga Sutra sets out a sophisticated theory of moral psychology and perhaps the oldest theory of psychoanalysis. For Patañjali; present mental maladies are a function of subconscious tendencies formed in reaction to past experiences. He argues that people are not powerless against such forces and that they can radically alter their lives through yoga—a process of moral transformation and perfection; which brings the body and mind of a person in line with their true nature. Accompanying this illuminating translation is an extended introduction that explains the challenges of accurately translating Indian philosophical texts; locates the historical antecedents of Patañjali’s text and situates Patanjali’s philosophy within the history of scholastic Indian philosophy.

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are the foundational texts of the science of yoga. In this book, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a master of yoga for the 21st century, offers his own commentary on this fundamental work. "The aim of Patanjali Yoga is to set man free from the cage of matter. Mind is the highest form of matter and man freed from this dragnet of Chitta or Ahankara (mind or ego) becomes a pure being." - H. H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Embark on a transformative journey into the path of yoga with "Patanjali Yoga Sutra" featuring Swami Vivekananda's profound insights. Prepare to delve deep into the ancient wisdom of yoga as Vivekananda illuminates the timeless teachings of Patanjali, guiding readers on a path of self-discovery, inner peace, and spiritual enlightenment. As you explore the sacred text of the Yoga Sutras, be prepared to uncover the secrets of the mind, body, and soul. Vivekananda's interpretation offers clarity and guidance, helping readers understand the essence of yoga philosophy and its practical applications in daily life. But amidst the vast ocean of spiritual wisdom, one question arises: What transformative power lies within the teachings of Patanjali, and how can they help us navigate the complexities of modern existence? Join Vivekananda as he demystifies the ancient scriptures, offering practical insights and timeless wisdom that can empower individuals to overcome obstacles, cultivate inner strength, and achieve true liberation. Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening? Prepare to be inspired by the profound teachings of "Patanjali Yoga Sutra" with Swami Vivekananda. Don't miss the opportunity to unlock the transformative power of yoga in your life. Dive into this sacred text now, and let Vivekananda's insights illuminate your path to spiritual fulfillment and inner peace. Seize the chance to deepen your understanding of yoga philosophy and practice. Purchase your copy of "Patanjali Yoga Sutra" today and embark on a journey of self-transformation and spiritual evolution.

The aphorisms collected in this book, first published in 1953, were composed by Patanjali, a great Indian sage, over 1,500 years ago, and here translated into clear English prose. The accompanying commentary interprets the sayings for the modern world, and in doing so gives a full picture of what yoga is, what its aims are, and how it can be practised.