Introduction to major schools of Yoga (Jnana, Bhakti, Karma, Patanjali, Hatha).

14 Sep 2024

Yoga has evolved into various schools, each offering unique approaches to spiritual development and well-being. Here’s an introduction to the five major schools of Yoga:

1. Jnana Yoga (Yoga of Knowledge)

Jnana Yoga is the path of wisdom and self-inquiry, aiming to transcend ignorance through knowledge of the self. It involves deep contemplation, study of scriptures (Vedanta), and meditation. Practitioners of Jnana Yoga seek to differentiate the real (the eternal soul) from the unreal (the material world) to attain liberation (moksha).

• Key Concepts: Self-inquiry (Atma Vichara), the study of Vedantic texts, renunciation of ego.
• Goal: Realization of one’s true nature (Atman) and unity with the Absolute (Brahman).

2. Bhakti Yoga (Yoga of Devotion)

Bhakti Yoga is the path of love and devotion toward a personal deity or divine being. It focuses on cultivating a deep emotional connection with the divine through prayers, chants, and rituals. Surrendering oneself to God with pure love is central to this practice.

• Key Concepts: Devotion (Bhakti), surrender (Sharanagati), love for the divine.
• Goal: Union with the divine through unconditional love and surrender.

3. Karma Yoga (Yoga of Action)

Karma Yoga emphasizes selfless action as a means of spiritual development. It teaches practitioners to perform their duties without attachment to the outcomes. By dedicating all actions to the greater good and without selfish motives, one can purify the heart and mind.

• Key Concepts: Selfless service (Seva), detachment from results (Nishkama Karma), duty (Dharma).
• Goal: Liberation through right action without attachment.

4. Patanjali Yoga (Raja Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga)

Patanjali’s Yoga, often referred to as Raja Yoga, is outlined in the Yoga Sutras. It is an eight-limbed path (Ashtanga) that systematically guides the practitioner toward mental discipline, self-control, and deep meditation. This school emphasizes physical, mental, and spiritual practices to still the mind and achieve enlightenment.

• Key Concepts: The Eight Limbs of Yoga (Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi).
• Goal: Samadhi (state of meditative absorption or enlightenment).

5. Hatha Yoga (Yoga of Physical Discipline)

Hatha Yoga focuses on the balance of the body and mind through physical postures (Asanas), breath control (Pranayama), and cleansing techniques (Shat Kriyas). It prepares the practitioner for deeper spiritual practices by strengthening the body, calming the mind, and balancing the subtle energies (Prana).

• Key Concepts: Physical postures (Asanas), breath control (Pranayama), energy balance (Nadis, Chakras).
• Goal: Physical and mental purification, preparing the body and mind for meditation and higher states of consciousness.

Each school of Yoga offers a distinct path, but all share the common aim of achieving spiritual realization and inner peace. Whether through knowledge, devotion, action, or physical and mental discipline, the essence of Yoga remains the same—union with the higher self.