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Loading... Glimpses of Raja Yoga (1991)by Vimala Thakar
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In Glimpses of Raja Yoga, Vimala Thakar introduces the basic concepts of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras by focusing on a different sutra, or aphorism, in each of the twelve chapters. In her opening chapter, she presents the historical and cultural background of Patanjali's Raja Yoga. Chapter 2 contains an eloquent invocation of the dimension of Silence-the meditative state that one enters with the stilling of the mind. Chapters 3-6 examine the ethical principles and observances (the yamas and niyamas) that form the foundation of a healthy spiritual practice. Here Vimala discusses the importance of ahimsa (non-violence) and satya (truthfulness), and offers a radical interpretation of brahmacarya based on her understanding of Sanskrit. Chapter 7 concerns the kleshas or causes of suffering such as avidya (ignorance) and asmita (egotism). Chapter 8 discriminates between dharana (meditation with deliberate focus) and dhyana (effortless meditation), and reflects Vimala's own experience. Chapter 9 describes the relation of prakriti (matter) and purusha (spirit) according to Patanjali. Chapters 10-12 describe the ultimate goal of the yogic journey-the absolute freedom of samadhi. No library descriptions found. |
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Google Books — Loading... GenresMelvil Decimal System (DDC)181.452Philosophy and Psychology Ancient, medieval and eastern philosophy Asian India Yoga PataƱjaliLC ClassificationRatingAverage: No ratings.Is this you?Become a LibraryThing Author. |
About the Author:
Born in India, Vimala Thakar has traveled and lectured throughout India for the Land Gift Movement of Vinobha Bhave, an associate of Mahatma Gandhi. Her meetings and friendship with Krishnamurti from 1956 to 1961 had a profound effect on her life. From the 1960s to the 1980s, she taught meditation retreats in thirty-five countries around the world.