Customer Reviews
A reference rather than a guide - By: Read Indian, 30 Jan 2008 
This book deserves the 5 stars for the sheer expanse, the research behind it, & the approachable explanations of a very difficult, convoluted, & relatively undocumented subject. I especially enjoyed the historic context & perspective behind the various systems of yoga, & commend the author's serious attempts to provide a wealth of translated texts from the relatively unknown & mind-bogglingly large library of Hindu scriptures. His love of the subject shines through the effort he must have investedin documenting this knowledge.
The one missing bit which makes this book more an anthology - than a definitive guide for seekers - is that it doesn't come from author's own experiential understanding of the subject. This great work therefore does not speak with authority of a realised master - but is just a pointer on where to look.
However, it did help my own understanding greatly - therefore the 5 stars - & those who look at it for understanding rather than guidance will definitely enjoy it.
Those looking for a 'yoga kick' will unfortunately also find - as the risk remains with Indian traditions - a new ability to spout esoteric words & assumed understanding devoid of experiential meaning. But then, such is life :)
Goldmine of Yoga philosophy and history - By: kalpana, 01 May 2006 A must-have book for Yoga teachers & students who are seriously interestedin the subject of Yoga & its development.
With illustrations, easy to read layout - a comprehensive survey by a renowned Western scholar. A book which will always enrich & inform, a treasure of a reference book on Yoga - a much-needed antidote to the dumbing down of Yoga as a physical exercise & self-improvement trend.
AWESOME BOOK - By: , 10 Jun 1999 It is very refreshing to see a westerner who really understands the heart,soul,and original pupose of all yogas. Most westerners assume Yoga to be a merely stretches & postures. In reality, there are many different paths of yoga--all invented to ultimately lead the soul to complete liberation, although a lot of people (even some self-designated "gurus") don't know or lose sight of this. I was very sceptical as to whether a westerner giving an honorable representation of this majestic science, & to give an honorable IN-DEPTH presentation at that!
As Ken Wilber states (in other words)in the foreword...we DO havein Feuerstein the perfect & necessary blend of a scientifically minded scholar & devoted practitioner.
HUGE BOOK!!! The size of an actual encyclopedia. But, if you have any clue as to how deep & rich the yoga tradition is, & if you also appreciate it's beauty...or even if you think it's a bunch of hooey & want to know whether you are right or not, it is an immensely scholarly--yet readable sourcebook. MUST HAVE!
(p.s.--I like old george now.)
A fantastic book on Yoga; rich, clear and well organized - By: , 03 Apr 1999 I bought a copy of this book (softcover) & then gave it to my yoga teacher & bought the hardcover. We both love the book. It clearly explains many topics better than most other sources & has a clear organization for such a substantial reference. My first literary source now for Yoga guidance & clarity. thx & namaste
A masterpiece! - By: , 30 Nov 1998 This is a historic publication that will for decades be the most authoritative source for anything on yoga, ranging from its roots to its nurturing within the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, & Sikhism. It is writtenin a very readable style, has a lot of illustrations, & it presents the translations from the originals of some key texts. Simply magnificent! This is a book everyone should have on their personal library shelves. It has also been nicely printed & designed.
