The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

One of yogas most important and influential works The Yoga Sutras of Patajali forms a keystone of Indian philosophical and religious thought. Written by a sage in the second century B.C. the sutras have been translated many times. This interpretation by Professor James Haughton Woods originally published under the aegis of the highly esteemed Harvard Oriental Series ranks among the most acclaimed translations. Patajalis path is that of Raja Yoga the royal yoga or the yoga of the eight steps: restraint observances posture breath control sublimation (or withdrawal from the senses) attention concentration and meditation. The complete sutras appear here encompassing a four-part analytical study intended to purify the practitioners mind body and soul. Additional features include a commentary by Veda-Vysa and explanations by Vchaspati-Mira that are crucial to developing an understanding of Patajalis intent along with invaluable background information provided by the translators introduction and appendixes. This outstanding English edition of a profound work of spiritual enlightenment is essential reading for all scholars and practitioners of yoga.