Foundations of Yoga Philosophy and Scripture Flashcards
What is “yoga”?
Complexity: Yoga has multiple definitions across different time periods.
Ancient Roots: It originates from ancient Indian thought.
Dual Nature:
A system of practices
A state of being
Etymology: Derived from the Sanskrit root yuj meaning “to yoke” or “to join.”
Core Concept: Refers to uniting or connecting: The mind and body
& The individual with the divine
Ultimate Goal: To achieve union with the true self or the divine.
Manifestations:
Supernatural Powers (Siddhi )
Liberation (mokṣa)
What is the “Upanishads”?
The Upanishads are ancient Hindu texts that explore ultimate reality (Brahman), the true self (ātman), and liberation (mokṣa). They introduce key ideas like the duality of spirit (puruṣa) and matter (prakṛti), and laid the foundation for major philosophical schools (darśanas) such as Vedanta, Yoga, and Sāṃkhya.
What is “Bhagavadgītā”?
Embedded within the Mahābhārata, the Bhagavadgītā is a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Krishna. It addresses duty (dharma), the nature of reality, and different paths of yoga—such as karma, jñāna, and bhakti yoga—to guide one toward liberation (mokṣa).
What is the “Yogasūtra”?
Attributed to Patanjali (author), the Yogasūtra is a classical text that systematizes yoga practice. It introduces key ideas such as citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ (“the cessation of the mind’s fluctuations”) and outlines the eightfold (aṣṭāṅga) path toward mental clarity and spiritual liberation.
What is “Haṭhayogapradīpika”?
A seminal manual on Haṭha yoga, the Haṭhayogapradīpika explains physical postures (āsanas), cleansing techniques, and energy practices designed to purify the body and prepare the practitioner for deeper meditative states.
What is” Tantras”?
Tantras are a diverse group of texts and practices emphasizing ritual, symbolism, and the harnessing of subtle energies. They often address esoteric methods that integrate both physical and spiritual techniques and influence many yogic traditions.
What is “darśana”?
In the context of Indian philosophy, darśana means “view” or “system.” It refers to the various schools of thought (such as Sāṃkhya, Vedānta, and others) that offer differing perspectives on the nature of reality and the path to liberation.
