Theos-Talk Archives (November 1998 Message tt00537)

Nov 30th 1998

Dear Alan:

PATANJALI'S YOGA SUTRAS  You ask me about them.  I am familiar
with several Indian translations into English and of all those
that I have read the one that I found to be the most accurate and
fair and illuminating was that done by W. Q. Judge.

I am not familiar with the Bailey version.  I have read a number
of Bailey versions (which are considered by some to be
"theosophical" or even, additions and improvements on what Mme.
Blavatsky wrote !) and find that they diverge from the basic and
coherent Theosophical message.  But that is to be expected from
writers who use psychic material, and not spiritual sources.  And
that is my opinion.  Personally I would not "rely" on those, but,
everyone should make up their own mind.  I do not wish to appear
partisan, but experience tells me always to find out for myself
that which is reliable.  Trust your own logic and commonsense.

In all these matters of translation one ought to view several and
select that which seems to be the best and closest to truth and
fairness.

That is a difficult thing if one cannot use and employ the
original language in which such old texts (Sanskrit) were
written.

A thorough knowledge of original Theosophy and its principal
tenets is most helpful.   Add to that your own commonsense and
you have something you can learn to trust.  But, beware of one's
opinions which might be shaded by earlier training, education and
the impression that "authorities" seek to impose on their
readers.  And that includes what I say, please.  I do not claim
to be an authority, but only to be a free thinker, and try to
value things on their merit and avoid limiting opinions (if I
can).


Best wishes,

Dallas

PS: a copy of the Judge version of PATANJALI'S YOGA SUTRAS can be
had for $ 5.00  from
THEOSOPHY COMPANY, 245 W. 33rd St., Los Angeles, Ca., 90007
Phone: 1-213-748-7244.