Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Once again, Bryant knocks it out of the park. I've read this book before. Funnily enough, I gifted it to someone else and read their copy a little by little, and used it as a reference, and only bought my own copy yesterday!It has the original sanskrit in the Devanagari script, along with transliteration, then the translation, and then commentary.Apart from the simple, clear translations, the best part about this book is the respect he gives to attribution, tradition and past commentators. He doesn't push his own interpretation. His method is to present the arguments and interpretations of previous reputable and typically indigenous commentators after each line of translation. He then also adds his own thoughts, which are intelligent, thought-provoking and well-informed.This is very similar to the traditional Indian methods of commentary. Like his other book about the Indo-Aryan debate (See my review of his fantastic "Quest for the Origins of Vedic Culture" here: https://www.amazon.in/gp/review/RYR6TF8MXO711/ref=pdp_new_read_full_review_link?ie=UTF8), his method and attitude is so fair-minded and refreshing that even where you disagree with him, as I did, it is not a deal-breaker, because he quotes and paraphrases other views just as fairly. This is evidence, to me, of a clear mind and a dedication to truthfulness.I'd say this is an essential book for those interested in Yoga, and perhaps especially for Sanskrit scholars and aspiring indologists.

This is a book to read and read again. Most books on yoga are written by those who are masters or at least devoted practitioners. While there is nothing wrong with that it is very useful to read a book written with the objectivity of a dispassionate scholar. Bryant does that and because of that the book is a compelling read for sceptics, beginners and practitioners of yoga. Bryant's scholarship is evident as he references the various commentaries on the yoga sutras through the centuries and explores the connections between various darsanas of Hindu philosophy. And while he is objective on the subject it is evident that Bryant is not a dry academic. He is an ardent admirer of Patanjali's brilliance and that comes through. This book is a must read for those who are interested in yoga at any level. It's a book to possess, read, reread and gift.

Brilliant book with an in-depth analysis of each sutra. If you're the completely new to Indian Philosophy or Yoga Sutras then this might be a bit overwhelming. But for those familiar with the literature this is a perfect second/third book to pick up and explore the sutras further.

People who are interested in seeking ancient knowledge it's must to read ...yoga and it's history and it's teaching to mankind ..totally it's a vast knowledge which is simplified but kept at it's original ..so guys go head and pick one.

A very insightful book. I'm impressed by the introduction chapters on history of yoga. The commentary on each sutra was just perfect-not too long or not too short. The appendix consists of the Devanagari, transliteration and translation of sutras which is very useful for quick glance.

After reading this book I'm feeling that we are so much backwardThe person who is mentally and spiritually balanced is the forward one ☝️

If you want a clear, balanced approach to the Yoga Sutras of Patangali then look no further. Great translations with commentary from a wide range of classical, as well as more contemporary sources. All blended together very nicely by Prof. Bryant.

This book is amazing. It is very informative. The author has given comparisons from Gita, Upanishads, Buddhists and Jaina texts.