Yoga Darśana in the Modern Perspective: A Philosophical Study

Abstract

Yoga Darśana is one of the most significant systems of Indian philosophy, which primarily aims at the cessation of the modifications of the mind (citta-vṛtti-nirodha) and the realization of the true nature of the self. The term ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning union, concentration, or discipline. However, in the philosophical sense, Yoga refers to the control and restraint of the mental modifications. Maharshi Patañjali systematized the Yoga Darśana in his renowned text, the Yoga Sūtra, which is divided into four chapters: Samādhi Pāda, Sādhana Pāda, Vibhūti Pāda, and Kaivalya Pāda. These chapters respectively deal with the nature of Yoga, the methods of practice, the yogic powers (vibhūti), and the final liberation known as Kaivalya. In Yoga Darśana, citta (mind) and its modifications play a central role. The modifications of the mind are five in number: Pramāṇa (valid knowledge), Viparyaya (misconception), Vikalpa (imagination), Nidrā (sleep), and Smṛti (memory). The control of these mental modifications is the main objective of Yoga. This control can be achieved through practice (abhyāsa) and detachment (vairāgya). The disturbances of the mind are caused by five afflictions (kleśas), namely Avidyā, Asmitā, Rāga, Dveṣa, and Abhiniveśa, which are responsible for human suffering. The attainment of Samādhi is the ultimate goal of Yoga practice. For this purpose, Patañjali prescribed the eightfold path of Yoga known as Aṣṭāṅga Yoga, which includes Yama, Niyama, Āsana, Prāṇāyāma, Pratyāhāra, Dhāraṇā, Dhyāna, and Samādhi. Through the practice of these eight limbs, mental purification, concentration, and self-realization become possible. In the present age, Yoga Darśana is highly relevant as it helps in reducing mental stress, developing self-control, and attaining mental peace and spiritual upliftment. Therefore, Yoga Darśana is not only a philosophical system but also a practical path of life.