I started fretting about the first two limbs of yoga a year and a half ago (“The First Two Limbs of Yoga,” February 27, 2011). By comparison with abstentions or restraints and observances, all the other limbs struck me as rather easy. A few days ago I repeated my grumbles almost verbatim (“Yama, Niyama,” October 26, 2012). Today I decided to seek guidance from The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the ultimate authority on the subject. I have several editions of this terse book, each translated a bit differently, as well as commented upon in a slightly different way. My favorite edition at the moment is by Edwin Bryant.[1]

Now, Chapter II, Sutra 29, introduces the subject: “The eight limbs are abstentions, observances, postures, breath control, disengagement of the senses, concentration, meditation, and absorption.”[2] The eighth limb is the goal of yoga, but all eight limbs are essential in its pursuit. None can be neglected, let alone skipped entirely.

Chapter II, Sutra 30, concerns the first limb: “The abstentions are nonviolence, truthfulness, refrainment from stealing, celibacy, and renunciation of unnecessary possessions.”[3] The first abstention is considered crucial, but the last one is often interpreted as the next in line in terms of importance. Chapter II, Sutra 31, is straightforward: “These abstentions are considered the great vow. They are not exempted by one’s class, place, time, or circumstance. They are universal.” This is considered of utmost importance. No exceptions to the abstentions are possible.

The second limb is addressed in Chapter II, Sutra 32: “The observances are cleanliness, contentment, austerity, study of scripture, and devotion to God.”[4] In contrast to the abstentions, which concern the yogi’s interaction with others, the observances concern the yogi’s own personal discipline and practice.

Chapter II, Sutra 33, rounds off the discussion of abstentions and observances: “Upon being harassed by negative thoughts, one should cultivate counteracting thoughts.”[5] In particular, this refers to thoughts counteracting the abstentions and observances. Returning to the last piece on the subject, which was written only a few days ago, my task is to cultivate counteracting thoughts to my abhorrence of nonviolence and truthfulness among the abstentions, as well as contentment and devotion to God among the observances. Gosh! Who says yoga is a trivial pursuit?

Footnotes

1. New York: North Point Press, 2009.

2. Op. cit., p. 241-242.

3. Op. cit., pp. 242-243.

4. Op. cit., p. 252.

5. Op. cit., p. 255.