Significance of Yama and Niyama
Yama and Niyama are foundational ethical precepts in various Indian philosophical traditions, particularly within the context of Yoga. Yama comprises moral disciplines that include self-restraint and ethical conduct, while Niyama involves personal observances and practices enhancing individual character. Together, they provide guidelines for practitioners to achieve mental stability, improve self-discipline, and foster moral living on the spiritual path. These principles are integral for personal development, ascetic practices, and overall well-being in the context of Yoga and spiritual disciplines.
In Dutch: Yama en Niyama; In Finnish: Yama ja Niyama; In Spanish: Yama y Niyama; In German: Yama und Niyama
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Yama and Niyama'
Yama and Niyama in Hinduism refer to essential ethical guidelines and practices in yoga, emphasizing moral conduct and personal observances crucial for developing discipline and advancing on the spiritual path.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Ethical precepts in Yoga; Yama pertains to moral disciplines, while Niyama focuses on personal observances.[1] (2) The ethical and moral precepts followed by Svayambhuva Manu in his ascetic practices.[2]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Ethical precepts and rules that guide personal conduct and discipline in spiritual practices.[3] (2) The ethical principles and guidelines practiced by individuals dedicated to spiritual pursuits as mentioned in the text.[4]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Ethical precepts and lifestyle disciplines in yoga that guide adherents towards moral living and spiritual discipline.[5] (2) Principles of restraint (Yama) and religious observances (Niyama) which are essential for the practice of yoga and spiritual discipline.[6]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Yama and Niyama are ethical precepts in Hindu philosophy that guide moral behavior and self-discipline, foundational for spiritual practice.[7]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Yama refers to ethical precepts, while niyama pertains to religious observances; both are foundational practices in Yoga.[8] (2) Yama denotes ethical disciplines to restrain negative behaviors, while niyama signifies observances intended to cultivate positive attitudes.[9] (3) The ethical rules and observances one should follow on the spiritual path, promoting discipline and propriety.[10] (4) Ethical guidelines in Yoga practice; yama refers to moral restraints while niyama refers to positive observances.[11]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Rules and regulations of behavior that devotees may sometimes neglect while expressing their deep affection for Divine qualities.[12]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The ethical precepts in yoga that involve self-restraint and moral observance, which practitioners utilize to control their senses.[13]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Technical terms representing the two sets of duties: Yama includes major prohibitions, while Niyama includes positive observances.[14]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Preliminary ethical and moral disciplines in Yoga that guide the practitioner's behavior.[15]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana
(1) Duties and minor duties, respectively, that help control the mind and speech.[16]
The concept of Yama and Niyama in local and regional sources
Yama and Niyama are foundational aspects of the eightfold path of yoga outlined in Patanjalayogashastra, emphasizing ethical guidelines and personal observances that nurture spiritual growth and discipline within yoga practice.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) These are elements of the eightfold path of yoga, as expounded in the second chapter of the Patanjalayogashastra.[17]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) These two practices are intended for continuous application throughout one's life, forming the foundation for the other aspects of the eightfold system.[18]