References

Recommended Books

Patanjali Yoga Sutras Book Cover

Patanjali Yoga Sutras: The Heart of Yoga Recommended

by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankarji

This is a must-have book for those seeking to understand Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Gurudev's explanations are lucid and accurate without sacrificing any details. The numerous anecdotes included make it engaging and enjoyable to read. It also features Q&A sections addressing frequently asked questions. The sutra translations on this site are largely sourced from this book. However, literal translations are simply not enough to grasp the true depth and nuances of the sutras, so purchasing the book is highly recommended.

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali Book Cover

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

by Sri Swami Satchidananda

This is another well-respected and extremely popular commentary on the Yoga Sutras, especially widely read and appreciated in the West.

Online Resources

Patanjali Yoga Sutra Translation Portal

Another comprehensive site offering individual word-by-word Sanskrit translations, breaks, commentary in multiple languages, and audio clips reciting each sutra.

Swami Vivekananda's Raja Yoga Commentary

The full historic text of Swami Vivekananda's lectures and commentary on Patanjali's Yoga Aphorisms is hosted online and accessible in full.