Title of the Book: The Concept of Yogic Liberation: Mokşa in Pataňjali Yoga
Author: Pinto Ian
Publisher: Motilal banarsidass Publishing House, Delhi
Year: 2021
Pages: iii+144.
ISBN: 978-93-91024-45-1
Price: Rs.250/-
Reviewed by: Sr. Teresa Joseph fma
The Concept of Yogic Liberation: Mokşa in Pataňjali Yoga is undeniably a path-breaking study by Pinto Ian and is a distinct and creative contribution to India and abroad.
Yoga is a fundamental aspect of Indian culture and religion; it has become a worldwide phenomenon today with its followers ever on the increase. Yoga is a form of exercise and regular practice of it makes the body and mind fit and healthy. Thanks to the pioneering work of Pataňjali, what began as a sadhanā (practice) gradually became a philosophical system. Several schools of Indian philosophy have studied the concept of Mokşa in Pataňjali Yoga.
Pinto makes the philosophical background of Yoga the leitmotif of his research thus bringing in a touch of originality being the first one to study it from a Christian perspective.
Let us journey into the book. Pinto nurtures a genuine interest and predilection for Indian Philosophy ever since he was introduced to it. This is very evident in his work which offers the reader the history of yoga, its origin, aim, scope, sources and development through the ages right up to the present day (chapter one). The metaphysics, epistemology, theology, anthropology and psychology of yoga are what build the yoga system (chapter two). The topic of liberation, the concept of bondage, mokşa and proposes the Aştānga Mārga as the path of liberation as specified by Patanjali (chapter three). Then, there is the mystical dimension of yoga, the concept of samādhi as a way of being and its by-products the vibhūtis (chapter four). Many of you readers would like to get a critical vision of yoga: our author has indeed taken care of it too (conclusion). The glossary of Sanskrit words and the bibliography are worth mentioning.
How relevant is this study in today’s context? Well, to respond to this question, it is a must to look at it from an Indian and Intercontinental viewpoint. At the heart of this study there is the human being: his/her wellbeing in all aspects. People from all cultures, faiths, backgrounds and walks of life are getting attracted to Yoga.
Pinto has suggested to initiate a dialogue between Christian faith and Yoga in one’s personal life, has highlighted the similarities between Yoga and Christianity and the differences. He is of the opinion that “A Christian adaptation of the meditation techniques of classical yoga could be a welcome offering of Indian Christianity to the rest of the world” P.123.
Our young author has studied the subject very arduously and presented it in a systematic manner. The book is philosophical and expressive and certainly facilitates a better understanding of yoga. He has initiated a dynamic dialogue between his Christian faith and the yoga of Pataňjali. Obviously in the context of interreligious dialogue this study that is very commendable and deliberately vigilant opens new horizons for better collaboration and networking with believers of various religions.
Pinto’s path-breaking research will certainly become a source of reference for many scholars and researchers. As we look forward for many more books of quality and content from him; we wish the author all the best for a deeper exploration of the Concept of Yoga from a Theo-Anthropological and Pedagogical perspective.
Ian Pinto is currently doing his 2nd year of theology at JD Pune