Eastern Philosophies  Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga FAQs  FAQ
Are there any specific texts or scriptures associated with Aurobindo's Integral Yoga?

Aurobindo's Integral Yoga is a synthesis of Eastern spirituality and evolution, and as such, it draws from a variety of sources and texts. However, there are a few specific texts and scriptures that are closely associated with Aurobindo's Integral Yoga.

The first and most important text is Aurobindo's own writings, particularly his major work, "The Life Divine." This book outlines the philosophy and principles of Integral Yoga, and is considered the foundational text for practitioners of this path.

Another important text is the Bhagavad Gita, which is a sacred Hindu scripture that Aurobindo studied extensively. He believed that the teachings of the Gita, particularly the concept of karma yoga, were essential for understanding the spiritual evolution of humanity.

Aurobindo also drew inspiration from the Upanishads, which are a collection of ancient Hindu texts that explore the nature of reality and the self. The Upanishads emphasize the importance of self-knowledge and the realization of one's true nature, which are central to Integral Yoga.

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, a foundational text of classical yoga, also played a significant role in Aurobindo's development of Integral Yoga. This text outlines the eight limbs of yoga, which include practices such as meditation, ethical guidelines, and physical postures. Aurobindo incorporated these practices into his Integral Yoga system.

In addition to these texts, Aurobindo also drew from the teachings of other spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity. He believed that all religions contained elements of truth and that the ultimate goal was to transcend the limitations of religious dogma and discover the universal truth that underlies all traditions.

It is important to note that Aurobindo did not see these texts as rigid doctrines to be followed blindly, but rather as sources of inspiration and guidance on the spiritual path. He encouraged individuals to find their own unique path and to adapt the teachings to their own needs and understanding.

In conclusion, while Aurobindo's Integral Yoga draws from a variety of sources, there are several specific texts and scriptures that are closely associated with this path. These texts provide a framework and guidance for practitioners, but ultimately, the goal of Integral Yoga is to go beyond external teachings and discover the truth within oneself.