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0 min readIntroduction
Yoga, originating in ancient India, represents a comprehensive system for self-realization. Patanjala Yoga, systematized by Patanjali in the *Yoga Sutras* (around 2nd century BCE), provides a classical framework for achieving liberation (*kaivalya*) through disciplined practice. However, 20th-century philosopher and spiritual teacher Sri Aurobindo proposed Integral Yoga, a synthesis of various yogic traditions aiming for a more complete and transformative experience. This essay will explore how Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga builds upon and advances the foundations laid by Patanjala Yoga, offering a more expansive and evolutionary path to spiritual fulfillment.
Patanjala Yoga: The Classical System
Patanjala Yoga, as outlined in the *Yoga Sutras*, is a system designed to quiet the fluctuations of the mind (*chitta vritti nirodha*). It proposes an eightfold path (*Ashtanga Yoga*) consisting of:
- Yamas (Ethical restraints): Non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence, non-possessiveness.
- Niyamas (Observances): Purity, contentment, austerity, self-study, surrender to God.
- Asana (Postures): Physical postures to cultivate stability and ease.
- Pranayama (Breath control): Regulation of breath to control *prana* (life force).
- Pratyahara (Withdrawal of senses): Turning inward, detaching from external stimuli.
- Dharana (Concentration): Focusing the mind on a single point.
- Dhyana (Meditation): Sustained concentration leading to a flow of awareness.
- Samadhi (Absorption): Complete absorption in the object of meditation, resulting in liberation.
The ultimate goal of Patanjala Yoga is *kaivalya* – isolation of the *Purusha* (true self) from *Prakriti* (nature). It emphasizes renunciation and withdrawal from the world as a means to achieve this state.
Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga: A Transformative Approach
Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga, developed in the early 20th century, builds upon the foundations of various yogic traditions, including Patanjala Yoga, Hatha Yoga, and Tantra. However, it diverges significantly in its aims and methods. Key features of Integral Yoga include:
- The Supermind: Sri Aurobindo posits the existence of a ‘Supermind’ – a higher level of consciousness beyond the mental plane, capable of manifesting divine truth and power.
- Transformation of Nature: Unlike Patanjala Yoga’s emphasis on renunciation, Integral Yoga aims for the transformation of the entire being – body, mind, and spirit – and the manifestation of the divine in earthly life.
- Synthesis of Yoga: It integrates different paths of yoga – *Jnana Yoga* (path of knowledge), *Bhakti Yoga* (path of devotion), *Karma Yoga* (path of action) – into a holistic practice.
- Divine Descent: Integral Yoga emphasizes the descent of the Divine into the individual and the world, facilitating evolutionary progress.
- No Forced Renunciation: While discipline is crucial, Integral Yoga doesn’t advocate for forced renunciation of worldly life. Instead, it seeks to transform all aspects of life into instruments of divine expression.
The practice involves surrender to the Divine, aspiration for transformation, and a receptive openness to the Divine Force. It’s a dynamic and evolutionary process, not a static attainment of *kaivalya*.
A Comparative Analysis
The following table highlights the key differences between Patanjala Yoga and Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga:
| Feature | Patanjala Yoga | Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Kaivalya (isolation of Purusha from Prakriti) | Divine transformation of the entire being and the world |
| Method | Eightfold path (*Ashtanga Yoga*) emphasizing control of mind and senses | Synthesis of yogic paths, surrender, aspiration, and receptivity to Divine Force |
| Attitude towards the World | Renunciation and withdrawal from the world | Transformation of the world and manifestation of the Divine in earthly life |
| Role of Consciousness | Quieting the mind to achieve a state of pure consciousness | Evolution of consciousness to the Supermind and beyond |
| Emphasis | Individual liberation | Collective evolution and divine manifestation |
While Patanjala Yoga provides a powerful method for self-discipline and mental control, Integral Yoga expands the scope of yoga to encompass the entire spectrum of human existence. It addresses not just the individual’s liberation but also the evolutionary destiny of humanity. Sri Aurobindo’s yoga doesn’t reject the insights of Patanjala Yoga but rather integrates them into a larger, more comprehensive framework.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga represents a significant advancement over Patanjala Yoga by shifting the focus from individual liberation to the transformation of the entire being and the world. While Patanjala Yoga offers a profound path to self-realization through disciplined practice and renunciation, Integral Yoga provides a more expansive and evolutionary approach, aiming for the manifestation of the Divine in all aspects of life. It’s a yoga for the future, geared towards the collective evolution of consciousness and the creation of a more harmonious and divine world.
Answer Length
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