The system of Yoga put forward by Patanjali has eight parts and is therefore
called Astanga Yoga. Other systems which are based on a different technique naturally
adopt other classifications and have therefore a different number of Angas. This Sutra
merely enumerates the eight constituent parts of this system of Yoga.
The only point which is worth considering in this Sutra is whether the eight An-
gas in this system are to be taken as independent parts or as stages which follow each
other in natural sequence. The use of the word Angas which means limbs implies that
they are lo be taken as related but non-sequential parts, but the manner in which Patan-
jali has dealt with them in the text shows that they have a certain sequential relation-
ship. Anyone who examines carefully the nature of these parts cannot fail to see that
they are related to one another in a definite manner and follow one another in a natural
manner in the order in which they are given above. In systematic practice of higher
Yoga, therefore, they have to be taken in the sense of stages and the order in which
they are given has to be adhered to, as far as possible. But, as a Sadhaka can take up
for practice any of the Angas without adhering to this sequence these parts may be
considered independent also to some extent.
- Vows of self-restraint comprise abstention from violence, falsehood,
theft, incontinence and acquisitiveness.
Yama and Niyama the first two Angas of Yoga are meant to provide an adequate
moral foundation for the Yogic training. The very fact that they are placed before the
other Angas shows their basic character. Before dealing with the moral qualities and
general mode of life which are implied in Yama-Niyama it is necessary to explain a
few things about the place of morality in the Yogic life.