So long as man possesses a mind with its restless
thoughts, so long will there be a universal need for yoga or control.
[Illustration: THE LORD IN HIS ASPECT AS SHIVA, Not a historical
personage like Krishna, Shiva is the name given to God in the last
aspect of His threefold nature (Creator-Preserver-Destroyer). Shiva,
the Annihilator of maya or delusion, is symbolically represented
in the scriptures as the Lord of Renunciates, the King of Yogis.
In Hindu art He is always shown with the new moon in His hair, and
wearing a garland of hooded snakes, ancient emblem of evil overcome
and perfect wisdom. The "single" eye of omniscience is open on His
forehead.--see shiva.jpg]
The ancient rishi Patanjali defines "yoga" as "control of the
fluctuations of the mind-stuff." {FN24-4} His very short and masterly
expositions, the YOGA SUTRAS, form one of the six systems of Hindu
philosophy. {FN24-5} In contradistinction to Western philosophies,
all six Hindu systems embody not only theoretical but practical
teachings. In addition to every conceivable ontological inquiry,
the six systems formulate six definite disciplines aimed at the
permanent removal of suffering and the attainment of timeless bliss.
The common thread linking all six systems is the declaration that
no true freedom for man is possible without knowledge of the ultimate
Reality. The later UPANISHADS uphold the YOGA SUTRAS, among the six
systems, as containing the most efficacious methods for achieving
direct perception of truth.
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