Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
by Makarand Gopal Newalkar | 2017 | 82,851 words | ISBN-13: 9780893890926
Yoga-sutras 2.44, English translation with modern and ancient interpretation. The Patanjali Yogasutras describe an ancient Indian tradition spanning over 5000 years old dealing with Yoga:—Meditating the mind on the Atma leading to the realization of self. This study interprets the Yogasutras in light of both ancient and modern commentaries (e.g., Vyasa and Osho) while supporting both Sankhya and Vedanta philosophies.
Sūtra 2.44
Sanskrit text, Unicode transliteration and English translation of sūtra 2.44:
स्वाध्यायाद् इष्टदेवतासंप्रयोगः ॥ २.४४ ॥
svādhyāyād iṣṭadevatāsaṃprayogaḥ || 2.44 ||
(44) From study and repetation of the mantras communion with the desired deity is established.
Ancient and Modern interpretation:
Svādhyāya is study of self, ātman. Generally philosophical study groups, reading spiritual literature etc, help a person to understand oneself. This helps sādhaka unite with their iṣṭadevatā.A very good example of this is Rāmakṛṣṇa Paramahaṃsa who used to communicate with Goddess Kālī.