| Abstract A student of Yogadarshana and Vedantadarshana recognizes at every step the similarity between the ideas propounded in Yogasutras and the ideas preached by Sri Krishna in Bhagavad-Gita. In fact, every chapter of Gita is described as Yoga and the teacher explains to the student different ideas relating to Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga. Bhagavad-Gita in total is described as Brahma vidya and Adhyatma Yogashastra. Hence, an attempt is made for a systematic and detailed study of the concordance of ideas expounded in Yogasutras and Bhagavad-Gita in this work. The Yogasutras are taken in the order Patanjali had composed them and the concordant Gita passages (either in full or in part) which are in accordance with the sutras are noted. Sutras that were found not to have any concordant verses are omitted. Explanation is provided wherever it is essential. When identical words are used to express the same concepts in both the treatises the symbol 'a' is affixed at the end of the Gita verses. Sometimes different words are used but purport appears to be same, this is represented by the symbol 'b'. On some occasions neither the words nor the concepts are identical but on reflection we can conclude that though the thoughts are divergent they are not opposed and are running in parallel directions, this is represented by the symbol 'c'. Discussions made and conclusions drawn have been incorporated at the end of this work. |
| Summary & Conclusion : There is no discordance between ideals and ideas expounded in yoga sutras and Bhagavad-Gita in general. Sometimes we may notice difference but not opposition. It is possible to reconcile the apparent differences. We find certain omissions in Yoga Sutras, which are made up in Gita teaching. Gita includes yogic ideal and at the same time goes much beyond to wider fields in a more comprehensive manner. Hence, taken together YS and BG can serve as a most useful guide for the practice of yoga ignoring theoretical and minor differences. These two treaties are not contradictory. Although they are different in many respects, there are a large number of points of concordance one may take them and proceed in the path of Sadhana. Infact this is what has been done by all great sages in the past. Therefore, this is worth doing even at present.
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