Theos-Talk Archives (December 1998 Message tt00043)

John Vorstermans wrote:
>>>
The approach I have taken is to read several versions concurrently
(unless you can read the Sanskrit texts yourself).  In this way you get
a good idea of what the real intended meaning of the Sutra is. I have
found several good texts for this which are:
<<<

You are quite correct there. For a time, I read several versions concurrently
and collected books dealing with the Sutras. But I have twice given away my
library to a T. S. library, when moving from one continent to another.
Among the books that I miss the most from my former libraries, are the books
dealing with the Sutras of Patanjali. Some of them rarities.

>(unless you can read the Sanskrit texts yourself). ?

At the age of 17-18,  I studied Sanskrit in order to be better independent in 
text study. But the study of Sanskrit slowed down my progress from pondering.
So I did not continue with my study in Sanskrit.
--------

John  wrote:
>>>
Raga Yoga by Swami Vivekananda, another good clear version by Swami
Satchidananda alongside the one you mention by IK Tamini.  Vivekananda
in his book also gives an excellent overview on the principles of Raja
Yoga which I believe is the best I have read to date.
<<<

I am not familiar with the work by Swami Satchidananda. But the writings of
Vivekananda. - Yes I read him about 30 years ago,- a selection from his
writings. The text, - the Sutras - that I would the most like to see at this
time; is the work by Rama Prasad. Do you have the book.? The Yoga Sutras
of Patanjali by Rama Prasad.? Rama Prasad is also known for his book:
Nature´s Finer Forces. Do you know if some of the writings of Rama Prasad
are on line.?

Can you present, here on this mail list, how Swami Satchidananda introduces
the first Sutra. ?

>Of course the Sutras are but seed thoughts which we need to expand.

Our most valuable teaching is given to us in that way. That includes: The Book
of Dzyan, The Book of The King and others. 


Sveinn Freyr