PATANJALI YOGA SUTRAS
The Science of Yoga · 196 Sutras · 4 Padas
The seminal text of classical Raja Yoga formulated by Maharishi Patanjali. Structured as concise aphorisms that guide consciousness from restless agitation to total absorption, mastery of mind, and Kaivalya (absolute spiritual freedom). Features authentic word-by-word Sanskrit translations, Swami Vivekananda's 1896 commentary, and interactive contemplation practices.
The Four Padas
Matching the classical count: 51 + 55 + 55 + 34 = 196 Sutras of unbroken spiritual science.
Samādhi Pāda
Yoga, mind, practice and Samadhi.
The portion on Absorption. Defines Yoga (1.2), the five modifications of the mind (Vrittis), the two master pillars of practice (Abhyasa) and non-attachment (Vairagya), Ishvara Pranidhana, overcoming obstacles, and the progressive stages of Samadhi from Savitarka to Nirbija Samadhi.
Sādhana Pāda
Kriya Yoga and the first five limbs.
The portion on Practice. Expounds Kriya Yoga (Tapas, Svadhyaya, Ishvara Pranidhana), the five Kleshas (afflictions of ego and ignorance), the cause of suffering, and introduces the Ashtanga Yoga system detailing Yama, Niyama, Asana (2.46), Pranayama, and Pratyahara.
Vibhūti Pāda
Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi and Vibhuti.
The portion on Powers and Inner Transformation. Formulates the inner limbs of Samyama: Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation 3.2), and Samadhi. Details intuitive knowledge, deep mastery of elements, and warns against becoming trapped by subtle spiritual powers.
Kaivalya Pāda
Liberation and Kaivalya.
The portion on Absolute Freedom. Explores karma, impressions (samskaras), nature of time and memory, the seer as pure consciousness distinct from the mind, the cloud of virtue (Dharma-Megha Samadhi), and final liberation (Kaivalya).
The Three Pinnacle Sutras
Highlighted in classical curricula: The Definition (1.2), The Posture (2.46), and The Meditation Stream (3.2).
योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः
Yoga is the stilling and calming of the modifications of the mind.
Study Sutra 1.2 →स्थिरसुखमासनम्
Posture (Asana) must be steady (sthira) and comfortable (sukham).
Study Sutra 2.46 →तत्र प्रत्ययैकतानता ध्यानम्
Dhyana is the continuous unbroken flow of awareness onto the object.
Study Sutra 3.2 →