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Vedanta Philosophy: Lectures by the Swami Vivekananda on Raja Yoga Also Pantanjali's Yoga Aphorisms, with Commentaries, and Glossary of Sanskrit Terms
Contents: Raja Yoga; Pantanjali's Yoga Aphorisms; Immortality; Bhakti-Yoga; Para-Bhakti or Supreme Devotion; Glossary.
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1893
About the author
Vivekananda
1,875 books1,609 followers"Arise Awake and Stop not til the goal is reached"
Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.
Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.
Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)
Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.
Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.
Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 12, 2020
What always surprises me about Swami Vivekananda is the way he explains the possibility of communicating and sending energy without cables. He died on 1902, and his scientific explanations were ahead of his time. He was acquainted with tesla, and it's interesting to note that tesla used sanskrit terms when describing matter and energy.
I'm not sure how true are the stories of Vivekananda predicting that he would leave his body at his 30's. But I am sure he was a wise man that was way ahead of his time.
His commentary on the Yoga Sutras is logical, concise and clear. However, some of his vocabulary can be outdated and I have read better translations of the sutras. Nevertheless, his commentary is one of the best, and it is a quick read that someone interested in Raja yoga should go through.
I'm not sure how true are the stories of Vivekananda predicting that he would leave his body at his 30's. But I am sure he was a wise man that was way ahead of his time.
His commentary on the Yoga Sutras is logical, concise and clear. However, some of his vocabulary can be outdated and I have read better translations of the sutras. Nevertheless, his commentary is one of the best, and it is a quick read that someone interested in Raja yoga should go through.
January 3, 2022
It was an interesting read to understand to original historic and philosophic perspective on yoga. I guess this text is a must for anyone who practices yoga to understand a little more about what is going on a higher plane than strictly the physical one. I will read it again focusing only on the 195 Patanjali aphorisms and not so much on the comments because clearly Mr Vivekananda has his own religious beliefs and that is all very well but I don't share them at all. I have a hard time with reincarnation, incredible powers and gods stuff. I want to be fit, energized, and healthy and discover from my own personal practice all that is to be discovered without being told where this is going to lead me.
April 6, 2021
Great words from Swami Vivekananda
Being a Yoga Teacher I already knew Patanjali Yoga Sutras but the way Swami Vivekananda had put it, makes it so interesting to learn it from his perspective. Must read for every aspiring yogi.
Being a Yoga Teacher I already knew Patanjali Yoga Sutras but the way Swami Vivekananda had put it, makes it so interesting to learn it from his perspective. Must read for every aspiring yogi.
January 10, 2020
Brilliant book.
Won't be an easy read if you do not have any background in Yogic or Sankhya philosophy.
Worth reading for countless little nuggets of wisdom spread throughout the book.
Won't be an easy read if you do not have any background in Yogic or Sankhya philosophy.
Worth reading for countless little nuggets of wisdom spread throughout the book.
Read
August 10, 2022I've found reading yogic books helps me be calmer in the present moment. This is mentioned somewhat in the pages as something that comes along as you have knowledge of experiences because you then know the future/ what will or should happen.
I enjoyed learning about new terms for awareness. Like our chittas being stillness, and our vrittis being the waves of thoughts that can interrupt it.
some quotes I got from my copy since that's all I had to say:
"The flow of this continuous control of the mind becomes
steady when practices day after day and the mind obtains the
faculty of constant concentration."
"Ignorance is taking that which is non-eternal, impure,
painful, and non-Self, for the eternal, pure, happy,
Atman (Self). "
I enjoyed learning about new terms for awareness. Like our chittas being stillness, and our vrittis being the waves of thoughts that can interrupt it.
some quotes I got from my copy since that's all I had to say:
"The flow of this continuous control of the mind becomes
steady when practices day after day and the mind obtains the
faculty of constant concentration."
"Ignorance is taking that which is non-eternal, impure,
painful, and non-Self, for the eternal, pure, happy,
Atman (Self). "
Read
August 14, 2020I read it slowly, along with lectures by Swami Pitambarananda of Ramkrishna Order.
His sessions are recorded and posted here -
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
But I find the it bit difficult to understand.
There are lot of references to Upanishada and Gita, I haven't read either of them.
Also I don't have any background of Sanskrit, that makes it difficult.
So probably I will read it again with sutra-by-sutra, with meaning, and commentary by couple of other scholars and Sadhak.
His sessions are recorded and posted here -
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
But I find the it bit difficult to understand.
There are lot of references to Upanishada and Gita, I haven't read either of them.
Also I don't have any background of Sanskrit, that makes it difficult.
So probably I will read it again with sutra-by-sutra, with meaning, and commentary by couple of other scholars and Sadhak.
July 7, 2019
Liberation can be achieved by adopting the principles of Spiritual Science.
Patanjali Yogasutras are hereby commented and explained in a lucid and scientific manner by a Self Realised Master, the legendary Swamy Vivekananda. The commentary reaches and appeals to a rational mind with out a dichotomy. This book is like a guide and reference to any serious student of Spiritual Science as I believe.I
Patanjali Yogasutras are hereby commented and explained in a lucid and scientific manner by a Self Realised Master, the legendary Swamy Vivekananda. The commentary reaches and appeals to a rational mind with out a dichotomy. This book is like a guide and reference to any serious student of Spiritual Science as I believe.I
September 4, 2023
directly translated proverbs and distinguished commentary written for contemplation less than casual reading/comprehension
Practical breath work and some asana instructions at their different places, but mostly spiritually conscious material
-“all the various ideas that tell us we need something external to make us happy are distractions from pure joy”
Practical breath work and some asana instructions at their different places, but mostly spiritually conscious material
-“all the various ideas that tell us we need something external to make us happy are distractions from pure joy”
Read
February 17, 2020Appeal to the logical minded
The first half of the book appeals to folks who have their mind wired to follow logic, it is well written. The latter part of the book was a bit challenging to follow. A great start up book to pursue the Sankhya way.
The first half of the book appeals to folks who have their mind wired to follow logic, it is well written. The latter part of the book was a bit challenging to follow. A great start up book to pursue the Sankhya way.
January 9, 2021
Great book for the sincere aspirant!
The book is based on a series of talks by the enlightened Master Swami Vivekanda. The clarity of his vision is evident and relevant in 2021, over a hundred years from his leaving this world. A must read for a sincere aspiring yogi
The book is based on a series of talks by the enlightened Master Swami Vivekanda. The clarity of his vision is evident and relevant in 2021, over a hundred years from his leaving this world. A must read for a sincere aspiring yogi
February 25, 2022
Incredible conversational summary of the Yoga Sutra. OFcourse one has to refer to some other sites, podcasts, introspection and guidance to really delve in, but the book in itself serves well to share the perpectives Vivekananda placed. Excellent read.
September 27, 2020
very intelligent book... but a dry read, gets a bit monotonous after a point
August 22, 2018
I started this book post reading The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: Commentary on the Raja Yoga Sutras by Sri Swami Satchidananda. The book covers the various aphorisms of Patanjali in detaill. Some passages in the book sounded like esoteric philosophical commentaries. My amateurish understanding of Raja Yoga expanded & I understood I need to go so much beyond merely the practice of Hatha Yoga.
December 1, 2023
"Raja-Yoga & Patanjali Yoga-Sutra" by Swami Vivekananda serves as a profound exploration into the ancient wisdom of Raja-Yoga, with a focus on the timeless aphorisms of Patanjali. The book delves into the orthodox systems of Indian philosophy, all of which converge on a singular goal – the liberation of the soul through perfection, and the chosen method for this transcendence is Yoga!
The term "Yoga" is expansive, encompassing various paths, but both the Sankhya and Vedanta Schools emphasize some form of Yoga as the means to attain spiritual perfection. Swami Vivekananda directs his attention to the specific form known as Raja-Yoga, making this book a comprehensive guide to the royal path of spiritual discipline and self-realization.
At the heart of this exploration are the profound aphorisms of Patanjali, considered the highest authority on Raja-Yoga. Swami Vivekananda draws upon these timeless insights to provide readers with a deep understanding of the philosophy, practices, and principles that constitute Raja-Yoga. The author's adept interpretation and elucidation of Patanjali's Yoga-Sutras offer a gateway for readers to access the profound wisdom embedded in this ancient text.
One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to make the complex and esoteric teachings of Raja-Yoga accessible to a wide audience. Swami Vivekananda's clear and concise explanations, coupled with his insightful commentary, demystify the philosophical foundations and practical applications of Raja-Yoga. This approach ensures that readers, regardless of their familiarity with Indian philosophy, can grasp the profound concepts and incorporate them into their spiritual journeys.
The book not only serves as an intellectual guide but also as a practical manual for those aspiring to tread the path of Raja-Yoga. Swami Vivekananda provides insights into the various stages of yogic practice, including concentration, meditation, and Samadhi. Practical instructions, coupled with the underlying philosophy, make this book a valuable resource for individuals seeking a holistic approach to spiritual growth and self-discovery.
In addition to its practical guidance, "Raja-Yoga & Patanjali Yoga-Sutra" reflects Swami Vivekananda's mastery in bridging the ancient wisdom of Yoga with the challenges and aspirations of the modern world. The author seamlessly connects the principles of Raja-Yoga to the contemporary context, making it relevant and applicable to the lives of readers in diverse cultural and societal settings.
The book's significance extends beyond its immediate readership, serving as a beacon for those interested in delving into the profound teachings of Raja-Yoga. Swami Vivekananda's work contributes to the preservation and dissemination of this ancient knowledge, ensuring that the transformative power of Raja-Yoga continues to inspire and guide seekers on their spiritual journeys.
In conclusion, "Raja-Yoga & Patanjali Yoga-Sutra" stands as a luminous testament to Swami Vivekananda's ability to elucidate complex philosophical concepts with clarity and relevance. This book is not merely a scholarly exploration; it is a practical guide and an invitation to embark on a transformative journey towards self-realization through the ancient path of Raja-Yoga!
The term "Yoga" is expansive, encompassing various paths, but both the Sankhya and Vedanta Schools emphasize some form of Yoga as the means to attain spiritual perfection. Swami Vivekananda directs his attention to the specific form known as Raja-Yoga, making this book a comprehensive guide to the royal path of spiritual discipline and self-realization.
At the heart of this exploration are the profound aphorisms of Patanjali, considered the highest authority on Raja-Yoga. Swami Vivekananda draws upon these timeless insights to provide readers with a deep understanding of the philosophy, practices, and principles that constitute Raja-Yoga. The author's adept interpretation and elucidation of Patanjali's Yoga-Sutras offer a gateway for readers to access the profound wisdom embedded in this ancient text.
One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to make the complex and esoteric teachings of Raja-Yoga accessible to a wide audience. Swami Vivekananda's clear and concise explanations, coupled with his insightful commentary, demystify the philosophical foundations and practical applications of Raja-Yoga. This approach ensures that readers, regardless of their familiarity with Indian philosophy, can grasp the profound concepts and incorporate them into their spiritual journeys.
The book not only serves as an intellectual guide but also as a practical manual for those aspiring to tread the path of Raja-Yoga. Swami Vivekananda provides insights into the various stages of yogic practice, including concentration, meditation, and Samadhi. Practical instructions, coupled with the underlying philosophy, make this book a valuable resource for individuals seeking a holistic approach to spiritual growth and self-discovery.
In addition to its practical guidance, "Raja-Yoga & Patanjali Yoga-Sutra" reflects Swami Vivekananda's mastery in bridging the ancient wisdom of Yoga with the challenges and aspirations of the modern world. The author seamlessly connects the principles of Raja-Yoga to the contemporary context, making it relevant and applicable to the lives of readers in diverse cultural and societal settings.
The book's significance extends beyond its immediate readership, serving as a beacon for those interested in delving into the profound teachings of Raja-Yoga. Swami Vivekananda's work contributes to the preservation and dissemination of this ancient knowledge, ensuring that the transformative power of Raja-Yoga continues to inspire and guide seekers on their spiritual journeys.
In conclusion, "Raja-Yoga & Patanjali Yoga-Sutra" stands as a luminous testament to Swami Vivekananda's ability to elucidate complex philosophical concepts with clarity and relevance. This book is not merely a scholarly exploration; it is a practical guide and an invitation to embark on a transformative journey towards self-realization through the ancient path of Raja-Yoga!
June 21, 2016
I picked up this book while backpacking in Rishikesh. Being the spiritual capital of the world, it was an immensely rich experience to read this book. But but but, this book came across as something which took me a while to start understanding. I guess I need to read this book atleast 5 more time to understand metaphysics. To sum up, I would say, "Beyond Intellect"
October 12, 2016
Awesome book
Very good book. We can understand all the basics of raja yoga I this book. More over we can understand how our mind operates day by day. Must read for all who want to control their minds.
Very good book. We can understand all the basics of raja yoga I this book. More over we can understand how our mind operates day by day. Must read for all who want to control their minds.
December 9, 2021
I do not consider my this very incarnation, worthy of commenting or reviewing the even a single letter written by sage of his caliber.
Its one of the best and straight translations ive ever seen of PYS.
Its one of the best and straight translations ive ever seen of PYS.
March 17, 2016
Great
An opening for true knowledge. Didn't expect such difficult subjects to be described in such a coherent manner. It will help get to the root!
An opening for true knowledge. Didn't expect such difficult subjects to be described in such a coherent manner. It will help get to the root!
August 1, 2016
Wonderful. Helps you to understand a lot of foundation works needed for yoga
November 22, 2019
Swami Vivekananda offers useful insights into the purpose and approach of practising Pranayama, Meditation and Yoga.
September 9, 2019
Nice book good concepts.
Nice book with good concept. There is one problem the Sanskrit letters are not printed. This means most of the book real portion, rerms dont appear.
Nice book with good concept. There is one problem the Sanskrit letters are not printed. This means most of the book real portion, rerms dont appear.
November 11, 2015
A must read book for every indvidual
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews