Different Definitions of Yoga (From 15+ Scriptures & Roots of Yoga)

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Different De?nitions of Yoga (From 15
Scriptures Roots of Yoga)
Yog, or Yoga as it is commonly known, is derived
from the Sanskrit word Yuj. Sanskrit is a
language with an extensive vocabulary and strict
rules for word usage. Each word is a powerhouse
of energy derived from its letters.
Interestingly, there is no terminology for Yoga
in Sanskrit. Over time, Yog became associated
with the label of Yoga. Achieving a conscious
connection is key to accessing the true essence
of yoga. Through this mindful awareness, we are
able to fully immerse ourselves in the present
moment and experience the people, things, and
experiences around us in a more profound way.
This state of connection is a joyful and
fulfilling experience that adds a new level of
depth and richness to our lives. Yoga is not
limited to a single definition but rather
encompasses various paths to connect with our
true selves. Understanding the classical
definitions of yoga and exploring our own
understanding of it can unlock the doors to our
intuition and creativity. The diverse
definitions of yoga reveal a broad range of
knowledge and experiences that can guide us
along the yogic path toward self-realization. Her
e, lets know the different meaning and
definitions of yoga, from the perspective of
Bhagavad Gita, Katha Upanishad, Patanjali,
Mahabharata, and more. 1. Definition of Yoga
According to Kathopanishad (6.1011) According
to the Ka?ha Upani?ad 6.1011, it is the "firm
restraint of the senses." When the mind and
senses (jñanani), are still and the intellect is
not active, one can reach the highest state.
This state allows for complete focus and
undistracted awareness. The practice of yoga
enables us to achieve this state by allowing us
to transcend our thoughts and senses, revealing
our true selves. By understanding yoga as
restraint, we can learn to control our thoughts,
senses, and actions, improving our overall
mental and emotional well-being.
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• Image Source -bhagavad-gita.us
• Definition of Yoga According to Bhagavad Gita
• According to the Bhagavad Gita, the ancient Hindu
  scripture, yoga is a path to equanimity and
  skill in action. In Chapter 2, verse 48, states
  that performing actions while established in yoga
  means abandoning attachment and being equanimous
  in success and failure.
• Chapter 2, verse 50, states that yoga is a skill
  in action, while Chapter 6, verse 23, stresses
  the importance of practicing yoga as a
  separation from suffering. To fully benefit from
  yoga, one must practice with a non-dejected
  mind.
• Also read 18 Life-Changing Bhagavad Gita Shlokas
  (Verses) With Meaning and Lessons
• Mahabharata
• According to the Mahabharata 12.304.2ab, there is
  no power that can match yoga. This ancient Hindu
  text recognizes yoga as the ultimate force of
  control and empowerment. It also acknowledges
  the importance of Sa?khya as a knowledge system.

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Samkhya-Yoga is a spiritual discipline that aims
to deepen practitioners' understanding of the
fundamental distinction between Puru?a (spirit)
and Prak?ti (matter). 4. Yogacarabhumi
Sravakabhumi The Yogacarabhumi Sravakabhumi 2.152
highlights that yoga is comprised of four primary
components faith, aspiration, perseverance,
and means. By incorporating all four elements,
individuals can develop an elevated level of
mindfulness, awareness, and self-discipline.
Image
Source-itra 5. Definition of Yoga by
Patanjali In the Patañjalayogasastra1.1.5,1.11.2,
3.6 yoga is defined as the suppression of the
activities of the mind. Yoga is samadhi, a
quality of the mind present in all states,
including distracted (k?ipta), confused (mu?ha),
agitated (vik?ipta), focused (ekagra), and
restrained (niruddha). Here is the definition of
yoga by Patanjali in Sanskrit ????9? ?f?
f??????
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• (Yogas citta-v?tti-nirodha?)
• In English, it can be translated as
• "Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations of the
  mind."
• Also read Patanjali Yoga Sutras- The Doorway to
  Liberation and Nirvana
• Pañcarthabha?ya
• According to the Pañcarthabha?ya 1.1.43, which
  explores the Pasupatasutra 1.1, yoga is defined
  as the union between oneself and the divine.
• Vaise?ikasutra
• The 1.1.7 Vaise?ikasutra 28 5.2.1516 reveals
  that pleasure and suffering in yoga stem from the
  union of the senses, mind, and objects.
• However, when the mind is focused on the self,
  there is no experience of either pleasure or
  suffering. This is the essence of yoga. The goal
  is to detach from external stimuli and focus on
  inner peace to achieve a state of liberation from
  worldly desires.
• Li?gapura?a
• The Li?gapura?a 1.8.5a describes yoga as the
  state of nirva?a, which refers to the condition
  of Siva. In essence, the term yoga represents
  the ultimate goal of achieving spiritual
  liberation, where one reaches a state of Supreme
  Consciousness and enters into a state of profound
  unity with the divine.

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• Prakasa explains that yoga leads to the
  attainment of supernatural abilities, including
  the ability to become as small as an atom. It
  arises from a union with Sivas power, attainment
  of samadhi, or the practice of yoga itself.
  Alternatively, yoga is an immersion into the
  divine arising from the contemplation of its
  nature.
• Malinivijayottara
• Yoga is more than just stretching and breathing
  exercises. As defined in the Malinivijayottara,
  it is the union of one thing with another -
  specifically, the union of the individual self
  with the universal consciousness.
• This "thing" that must be known is essential in
  order to discern what needs to be rejected in
  order to achieve enlightenment. To truly
  understand this concept, one must have the right
  knowledge (jñana).
• Also read How is Chanting Practiced Across
  Different Cultures Around the World?
• Brahmasutrabha?ya
• The Brahmasutrabha?ya of Sa?kara stresses that
  practicing yoga is the key to perceiving
  reality. Through yoga, one can develop greater
  self-awareness and an enhanced ability to
  observe the world around them.
• Yogasataka
• Yogasataka32 2.4 define yoga as the concurrence
  of three components correct knowledge,
  doctrine, and conduct. This leads to conjunction
  with liberation. The term "yoga" can also refer
  to the soul's contact with the causes of these
  components. The importance of having correct
  knowledge, doctrine, and conduct is paramount to
  achieving liberation through yoga.
• Vimanarcanakalpa
• In the ancient Hindu text Vimanarcanakalpa 96, it
  is explained that yoga represents the merging of
  the individual self with the supreme self. This
  union is at the core of the practice and helps
  individuals achieve a state of peace and unity
  within themselves and with the world around
  them.
• K?emaraja's Uddyota

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• other hand, is the experience of one of these
  elements. This provides a deeper understanding
  of the true essence of yoga as a means for
  achieving union with a specific element.
• Definition of Yoga According to Yoga Vasistha
• In the Yoga Vasistha, yoga is portrayed as a
  means to achieve liberation (moksha) by
  transcending the illusions of the material world
  and realizing the ultimate truth. It describes
  yoga as a practice that involves disciplining
  the mind, controlling the senses, and cultivating
• self-awareness.
• The scripture emphasizes that true yoga goes
  beyond mere physical postures and exercises. It
  delves into the techniques of meditation,
  concentration, and self-inquiry to help
  individuals understand the nature of
  consciousness and realize their inherent
  divinity. The Yoga Vasistha also highlights the
  importance of a guru or spiritual guide in the
  yogic journey.
• Also read Who is Yogi and Who is Yogini?
  Differences Meaning
• Definition of Yoga According to Hatha Yoga
  Pradipika
• The Hatha Yoga Pradipika, a classical text on
  Hatha Yoga, provides detailed instructions on
  various yogic practices and techniques. It offers
  insights into the physical, energetic, and
  meditative aspects of yoga.
• According to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, yoga is
  described as a means to achieve the union of the
  sun (Ha) and the moon (Tha), representing the
  masculine and feminine energies, respectively.
  This union leads to the harmonization of the
  individual's physical, mental, and energetic
  aspects.
• The text highlights the importance of purifying
  and balancing the body and mind through various
  practices such as asanas (physical postures),
  pranayama (breath control), mudras (energetic
  gestures), and bandhas (energy locks). These
  practices aim to awaken and direct the flow of
  vital energy (prana) within the body, leading to
  increased vitality, health, and spiritual
  awakening.
• In conclusion, exploring the different
  definitions of yoga as presented in various
  scriptures provides us with a rich tapestry of
  perspectives and insights into this ancient
  practice. From Patanjali's definition of yoga as
  the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind to
  the Hatha Yoga Pradipika's emphasis on the union
  of opposites, each scripture offers a unique
  perspective on the purpose and essence of yoga.

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Conclusion Throughout history, yoga has evolved
and diversified, giving rise to different schools
and lineages, each emphasizing different aspects
of the practice. From physical postures to breath
control, meditation, and self-inquiry, yoga
encompasses a wide range of practices that aim to
cultivate physical, mental, and spiritual
well-being. As we delve into the multitude of
scriptures and ancient texts, we find that yoga
is not limited to a single definition or
approach. It is a multifaceted and ever-evolving
practice that offers something for everyone,
regardless of their individual inclinations or
spiritual beliefs.