Raja Yoga (3)

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All the orthodox systems of Indian philosophy have one goal in view, the

liberation of the soul through perfection. The method is Yoga. The word

Yoga covers an immense ground, but both the Sankhya and the Vedanta Schools

point to Yoga in some form or other.

 

The subject of the present book is that form of Yoga known as Raja Yoga.

The aphorisms of Patanjali are the highest authority on Raja Yoga, and form

its textbook. The other philosophers, though occasionally differing from

Patanjali in some philosophical points, have, as a rule, acceded to his

method of practice a decided consent. The first part of this book comprises

several lectures to classes delivered by the present writer in New York.

The second part is a rather free translation of the aphorisms (Sutras) of

Patanjali, with a running commentary. Effort has been made to avoid

technicalities as far as possible, and to keep to the free and easy style of

conversation. In the first part some simple and specific directions are

given for the student who wants to practise, but all such are especially and

earnestly reminded that, with few exceptions, Yoga can only be safely learnt

by direct contact with a teacher. If these conversations succeed in

awakening a desire for further information on the subject, the teacher will

not be wanting.

 

The system of Patanjali is based upon the system of the Sankhyas, the points

of difference being very few. The two most important differences are,

first, that Patanjali admits a Personal God in the form of the first

teacher, while the only God the Sankhyas admit is a nearly perfected being,

temporarily in charge of a cycle of creation. Second, the Yogis hold the

mind to be equally all-pervading with the soul, or Purusha, and the Sankhyas

do not.

 

The Author

 

(Conclusion of Preface)