The Philosophy of Liberation in the Patanjali Yoga Sutra

Yoga is a way to connect oneself to God. The term ‘yoga' can be found in various sruti and smerti texts. Specifically, yoga is described in Indian philosophy (darsana), otherwise known as the yoga sutras composed by Maharsi Patanjali. Patanjali's teachings emphasize devotion to God (Isvara). Only by Bhakti can Yogis (one who practice the discipline of yoga) attain eternal happiness free from any disease or suffering (klesa). Patanjali systematically compiles the discipline that must be carried out by Yogis, namely by implementing the Astanga Yoga discipline which emphasizes Bhakti to God by reciting the holy script OM as a symbol of God in the form of Nirguna Brahman. This can be achieved through Raja yoga which is divided into two parts. First, bahiranga includes Yama, niyama, Asana, Pranayama and pratyahara. This is called indirect or external help. Second, antaranga includes Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi, namely direct help from within