Aṣṭāṅga-Yoga and Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura

Abstract

The article "Aṣṭāṅga-Yoga and Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura" by Jason D. Fuller explores how the 19th-century Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava reformer Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura critically engages with the classical Aṣṭāṅga Yoga system of Patañjali while affirming bhakti as the ultimate spiritual path. Fuller examines Bhaktivinoda’s nuanced stance: while recognizing yoga’s efficacy in cultivating mental discipline and ethical restraint, Ṭhākura cautions that its mystical perfections (siddhis) can become distractions from the goal of prema-bhakti (loving devotion to Kṛṣṇa). Through analysis of Bhaktivinoda’s Bengali and Sanskrit works—particularly Jaiva Dharma—the article shows how he reframes yogic practice as spiritually valuable only when subordinate to devotional surrender. Fuller argues that Bhaktivinoda develops a theologically coherent vision where yoga becomes a preparatory or ancillary aid, but not a self-sufficient path to liberation.