This classic work of Indian yogic philosophy is a yoga practitioner's map to the human consciousness—a guide to the states of mind that one encounters on the path of meditation, yoga, and other spiritual disciplines. Composed by the great Indian scholar Patañjali, this collection of aphorisms provides a meditative program through which we can learn to see things as they are and whereby we can free ourselves from suffering. Through his comprehensive ethical and meditative approach, this great third-century teacher points out that, with training, our capacity to see the true nature of joy and suffering can be uncovered.

The translator of this edition, Chip Hartranft, is a yoga teacher and scholar in his own right. This work is particularly valuable to modern students of yoga because it highlights the relevance of these ancient spiritual and ethical writings for us today. For anyone interested in deepening their understanding, these teachings complement the yoga poses we learn in the studio.

Presented here is Chip Hartranft's authoritative translation of the original sutra in full. Also, we have posted the outline of the spiritual path of yogic understanding according to Patañjali, as well as a guide to Sanskrit pronunciation. We hope you enjoy this presentation of a yoga classic!

If you'd like to read more, click here to purchase the book, which includes Hartranft's interpretation and explanation of this ancient masterpiece in a way that is accessible and pertinent to us today.