It is believed that Maharishi Patanjali was the avatar of Adi Shesha, the infinite cosmic snake upon which Lord Vishnu rests. He is considered as the compiler of Yoga Sutras, besides being the author of a commentary on Ashtadhyayi of Panini, known as Mahabhasya. He is also supposed to be the author of a book on the ancient system of Indian medicine, Ayurveda. Read more in this biography to learn more about Maharishi Patanjali and his philosophy.
Patanjali Life History:
Patanjali’s life is full of legends and contradictions. There are no authentic documents on his birth. According to a legend, he would have fallen (paw) into the hands (anjali) of a woman by giving him the name of Patanjali.
Patanjali Yoga Sutras:
It is said that once, watching a dance of Lord Shiva, Adi Shesha found it unbearable to bear the weight of Lord Vishnu. Surprised by this, he asked Lord Vishnu the reason for the same thing. Lord Vishnu stated that this was due to his harmony with Lord Shiva’s energetic state, due to the practice of yoga. Realizing of the value and benefits of yoga, Adi Shesha decided to be born among humans as “Patanjali”, to teach them great art.
Yoga Sutras are considered the basis of yoga techniques. Maharishi Patanjali, “The Father of Yoga,” has compiled 195 sutras, which serve as a framework for integrating yoga into daily routine and leading an ethical life. The exact date of Yoga Sutras compilation is unknown. However, it is believed that they were written somewhere around the year 200 BC. The teachings of Patanjali are at the heart of yoga in eight stages. The road shows how to live a better life through yoga.
Patanjali Mantra:
OM
YOGENA CHITTASYA PADENA VACHAM
MALAM SHARIRASYA CHA VAIDYAKENA
YOPAKAROTAN PRAVARNM MUNEENAM
PATANJALIM PRANJALI RANATOSMI