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Glossary
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Glossary Y (always to be continued) A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
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Yoga |
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The meaning of this Sanskrit term is ‘Yoking’ or ‘Union’. It is one of the six orthodox systems (darshans) of
Indian philosophy. Its influence has been widespread among many other schools of Indian thought. Its basic
text is the Yoga-Sutras by Patanjali (c. 2nd century BC?). The practical aspects of Yoga, mainly the Asanas are seen as more important than its intellectual content, which is largely based on the philosophy of Samkhya. Unlike Samkhya, Yoga assumes the existence of God. To reach God and salvation from the ocean of Samsara is the aim for the aspirant to spiritual release from the illusion of our identity with our body and psyche. Yoga holds with Samkhya that the achievement of spiritual liberation occurs when the self (Purusha ) is freed from the bondages of matter (Prakriti). When the Sadhaka succeeded in controlling his mental activities and in ending his attachment to material objects, he will be able to enter Samadhi. |
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Yuga |
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This term signifies the Hindu doctrine of the world ages, that
was elaborated in the centuries right before and after Christ. According to this doctrine, history takes
place in form of Brahma days and -nights. Each
Brahma day consists of 1000 cycles of world ages or yugas.
Each cycle, called mahayuga, contains 4.320.000 years and consists of four parts, which are named
after the dices of the Indian game of dice: krita-, dvapara-, treta- and kaliyuga.
Within these cycles, world can move from total harmony to the absolute evil. The last kaliyuga
signifies our present age, which is ruled exclusively by evil forces. At the end of the kaliyuga, the
world will be absorbed in Brahma, who rests for one yuga
and then recreates the world, starting another four cycles. The doctrine of the world ages is closely linked
to Vishnuism. See: Vishnu |
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