(Below is a modified code from the tradition Yamas and Niyamas of Patanjali--which he, of coursed gleaned from the already existing Hindu ethical codes found in the Vedas. The reason for the modified code is because Patanjali's Y&N were extremely severe and really meant only for the Saiva, Male, Celibate, Renunciant Yogi. The average Hindu could not live up to this code. Of course, non-Hindus who pretend to "use" Patanjali's Yamas and Niyamas are doing just that.)
Non-violence~Ahimsa
Do not Lie~Satya
Do not Steal~Asteya
Do not Lust~Bramachariya
Discipline Desire~Aparigraha
Be pure in Body, Mind and Speech~Saucha
Seek Contentment~Santosha
Cultivate Devotion~Isvara Pranidana
Educate yourself~Svadhyaya
Be steadfast in Hardship~Tapas
~The Yamas and Niyamas are one popular ethical code (gleaned from other Hindu scriptures) compiled by the Sanatanist/Hindu Sage Patanjali. The Yamas and the Niyamas are the first two steps in the "eight-fold" path known as Astanga ("eight") Yoga. (This progressive path of Classical Yoga is also referred to simply as the Raja Yoga of Patanjali.) Like all true spiritual teachers, Patanjali recognized the absolute necessity of a solid ethical foundation for Spiritual-Realization. Yama and Niyama correspond to Karma and Bhakti Yoga or ethics and devotion. This is the natural spiritual path that leads to meditation or Raja Yoga in Hinduism. The fruit of Raja Yoga is Enlightenment or Jnana Yoga. However, Jnana may also simply mean intellectual study and, in this reference we see the initial stage of Jnana also included in the Niyamas.
~Naturally, the progressive spiritual path can be found, to one degree or another, in all the religions of the world. All religions have their ethical codes and devotions and, in varying degrees, meditation. Just like the classic growth of a tree (see this analogy under What is Classical Yoga?), this is the classic spiritual growth: Ethics, Devotion, Meditation to Enlightenment. Of course, each religious tradition has its own unique ways of defining and practicing these essential elements of the spiritual life. This we should respect. In Hinduism–the religion of Classical Yoga, we find this natural, progressive spiritual path in the form of Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga and Jnana Yoga.
~With an understanding of the spiritual path, in general, and Classical Yoga/Hinduism, specifically, one becomes aware of the great injustices that have been and continue to be perpetrated against Hindus and the religion of Hinduism. For example, in the modern trend to divorce "yoga" from Hinduism and, further, to define it has just exercise, taught by almost anyone for a fee, we see a complete lack of ethics and understanding of the progressive spiritual/yogic path. Without a proper foundation, to naively claim to be a so-called "yoga teacher" (even getting into the "teacher training business") is like trying to erect a building on a weak and flimsy foundation. Some even go to the extremes of attempting to present "so-called" advanced forms of "yoga." Unfortunately, this is just another de$eption that can too often have serious consequences.
~The Eternal Spiritual Journey should be a most joyous and rewarding one but there are avoidable pitfalls. If the main emphasis is on Name (and picture), Fame and Price tag, it would be wise to walk around these obstacles to sincere Spiritual-Realization.
~If you are searching for a spiritual path, and the path of Classical Yoga/Hinduism feels comfortable to you, spend some time committing the Yamas and Niyamas to memory. Incorporating ethics and devotion (Karma and Bhakti Yoga) into your life will bring more happiness, success and Spiritual-Realization. Your life will dramatically change!
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