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This book interpretation of Raja Yoga, a part of Patanjali's Yoga sutras, is by Swami Sivananda. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali Maharshi are the standard Text on Yoga and these Sutras constitute a philosophy as well as a practical technique of meditation. The purpose of the Yoga way of analysis is an overcoming of the limitations of both subjectivity and objectivity and a union of the deepest within us and the deepest in the Cosmos. Yoga is based on a sound philosophy and deep psychology. It is an education process by which the human mind is trained to become more and more natural and weaned from the unnatural conditions of life. Very few authentic commentaries on the Yoga Sutras are available today. And, the aspirants in this science-minded world of today take a keener interest in this Branch of Yoga. All the Western Sadhakas take to the practice of Raja Yoga. In Europe and America, hundreds of men and women Sadhakas owe their progress in the practice of Raja Yoga to the practical and efficient guidance of Sri Swami Sivanandaji Maharaj. Sri Swamiji's approach is direct, clear and positive. Raja Yoga is the King of all Yogas. It concerns directly with the mind. In this Yoga there is no struggling with Prana or physical body. There are no Hatha Yogic Kriyas. The Yogi sits at ease,watches his mind and silences the bubbling thoughts. He stills the mind and restrains the thought waves, enters into the thoughtless state of Asamprajnata Samadhi. Hence the name Raja Yoga. Though Raja Yoga is a dualisitic philosophy and treats of Prakriti and Purusha, it helps the student in Advaitic realisation of openness eventually. Though there is the mention of Purusha, ultimately the Purusha becomes identical with the highest Self or Brahman of the Upabnishads. Raja Yoga pushes the student to the highest ring of the spiritualm ladder, Advaitic realisation of brahman. Like many other books of the author this book also has run into many editions since it's first publication in the year 1937.
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