ABSTRACT
RÂja Yoga is divided into eight steps. The first is Yama— non-killing, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence, and non-receiving of any gifts. Next is Niyama — cleanliness, contentment, mortification, study, and self-surrender to God. Then comes Âsana, or posture; Práṇ âyâma, or controlling the vital forces of the body; Pratyâhâra, or making the mind introspective; Dhâranâ, or concentration; Dhyânâ, or meditation; and Samâdhi, or super-consciousness. The Yama and Niyama, as we see, are moral trainings; without these as the basis no practice of Yoga will succeed. As these practices become established the Yogî will begin to realise the fruits of his practice; without these it will never bear fruit. A Yogî must not think of injuring anyone, through thought, word or deed, and this applies not only to man, but to all animals. Mercy shall not be for men alone, but shall go beyond, and embrace the whole world.
