Eight fold path

2.32 The fixed observances are cleanliness, contentment, austerity, study and persevering devotion to God.
2.33 When improper thoughts disturb the mind, there should be constant pondering over the opposites.
2.34 Improper thoughts and emotions such as those of violence- whether done, caused to be done, or even approved of- indeed, any thought originating in desire, anger or delusion, whether mild medium or intense- do all result in endless pain and misery. Overcome such distractions by pondering on the opposites.
2.35 When one is confirmed in non-violence, hostility ceases in his presence.
2.36 When one is firmly established in speaking truth, the fruits of action become subservient to him.
2.37 All jewels approach him who is confirmed in honesty.
2.38 When one is confirmed in celibacy, spiritual vigor is gained.
2.39 When one is confirmed in non-possessiveness, the knowledge of the why and how of existence is attained.
2.40 From purity follows a withdrawal from enchantment over one's own body as well as a cessation of desire for physical contact with others.
2.41 As a result of contentment there is purity of mind, one-pointedness, control of the senses, and fitness for the vision of the self.
2.42 Supreme happiness is gained via contentment.
2.43 Through sanctification and the removal of impurities, there arise special powers in the body and senses.
2.44 By study comes communion with the Lord in the Form most admired.
2.45 Realization is experienced by making the Lord the motive of all actions.

I particularly liked the fixed observances leg of the path to purity. This section was one that I had to read through, go back and read it slowly and then imagine it as a "this leads to this, which leads to this" method in my head. I almost made a diagram, but couldn't figure it out in Word. I think I like that it shows that the quest for purity is a process. Not only is it an Eight Fold Path, but just under this section, there are many different elements. It is encouraging to have the path broken down even more. Instead of just knowing that I'm supposed to have fixed observances, I know practical steps of how to master this leg of the path. It also presents the benefits of mastering this part of the path: "All jewels approach him who is confirmed in honesty." If that doesn't make you want to follow the path of yoga, what will.

This whole section made me think of the Christian tradition, also. We are told to learn to control our thoughts. Christians are urged to dwell on things that are good, holy, pure, and righteous. And, we are also promised jewels; perhaps in a more physical meaning than the sutras. Christians are told that when we get to Heaven, we will be presented a crown with jewels, which we will then lay back at Jesus's feet. Also, Christians are meant to follow the will of God and pray that He will make his passions, your passions. This is similar to the last line listed above that talks about how "realization is experienced by making the Lord the motive of all actions."

I think the similarities between Christian tradition and the Yoga philosophy are so interesting. Maybe, if Christians would take time to study the philosophy, they would feel less threatened by the idea of yoga practice. Maybe then, they would be able to practice yoga without feeling the need to recite verses. ;)