The Philosophy of the Yogasutra: An Introduction

Karen O'Brien-Kop's introduction to the Yogasutra emphasizes its status as a significant work of philosophy. It approaches the sutra as living philosophy, elucidating philosophical conceptions of yoga, recognizing the logical structure, and explaining the rules and principles that have sustained Patañjali's system of thought for centuries. The book uses branches of philosophy to interpret the sutra, covering reality, self, ethics, language, and knowledge. It introduces Patañjali's reasoned positions on dual and non-dual metaphysics, the relationship between mind and body, consciousness, freedom, and ethical living. Carefully-selected extracts from the primary text are translated, and commentaries run throughout. The glossary provides definitions of key concepts with useful translations. Accessible and up-to-date, the introduction broadens our understanding of Indian philosophical thought and explains why the Yogasutra deserves to be read alongside Parmenides' "On Nature and Plato's Phaedo" as a classic of world philosophy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 18 May 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Yogasutra, penned by the renowned philosopher Karen O'Brien-Kop, is widely recognized as a profound and influential work of philosophy. When approached as a living philosophy, this book delves into the philosophical conceptions of yoga, elucidates the logical structure followed by the sutras, and explains the rules and principles that have sustained Patañjali's system of thought for centuries.

O'Brien-Kop goes beyond the conventional interpretations of Patañjali's text and commentary as an aphoristic practice manual. Instead, she employs branches of philosophy to interpret the Yogasutra, shedding light on various aspects such as reality, self, ethics, language, and knowledge. Patañjali's philosophies take center stage, offering insightful perspectives on dual and non-dual metaphysics, the relationship between mind and body, the qualities of consciousness, the nature of freedom, and the principles of ethical living.

To enhance accessibility for those unfamiliar with Sanskrit, carefully selected extracts from the primary text are translated, accompanied by comprehensive commentaries throughout. A comprehensive glossary provides definitions of key concepts, accompanied by useful translations, ensuring that readers can grasp the essence of the Yogasutra with ease.

This introduction serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to broaden their understanding of Indian philosophical thought. It emphasizes the Yogasutra's significance as a classic of world philosophy, alongside other esteemed works such as Parmenides' "On Nature" and Plato's "Phaedo." By exploring the profound insights and timeless principles contained within the Yogasutra, readers are invited to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Weight: 256g
Dimension: 215 x 139 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350286160