Question

Arrange the following niyama (five observations) in the correct sequence-
(A) Svādhyāya
(B) Īśvarpranidhāna
(C) Tapas
(D) Śauca
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B), (C), (D)
• B. (A), (B), (D), (C)
• C. (B), (A), (D), (C)
• D. (D), (C), (A), (B)

Hint:

Remembering the sequence of the Yamas and Niyamas is as important as knowing their meanings. The sequence often reflects a philosophical progression, from foundational principles to more advanced spiritual practices. Creating a mnemonic can be very helpful.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to arrange four of the five Niyamas in the correct order as prescribed by Patañjali in the Yoga Sūtras.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In the Yoga Sūtras (Chapter 2, Verse 32), Patañjali lists the five Niyamas in a specific sequence. The sūtra is: "śauca-santoṣa-tapaḥ-svādhyāyeśvarapraṇidhānāni niyamāḥ".
This translates to the following order:
1. Śauca (Purity)
2. Santoṣa (Contentment)
3. Tapas (Austerity, Discipline)
4. Svādhyāya (Self-study, study of scriptures)
5. Īśvarapraṇidhāna (Surrender to a higher power)
Step 3: Arranging the Given Options and Final Answer:
The question provides four of these Niyamas labeled as (A), (B), (C), and (D). Let's map them to the correct sequence. (Santoṣa is not included in the list to be arranged).


The first Niyama is Śauca, which is (D).
The third Niyama is Tapas, which is (C).
The fourth Niyama is Svādhyāya, which is (A).
The fifth Niyama is Īśvarapraṇidhāna, which is (B).
Therefore, the correct sequence of the given options is (D), (C), (A), (B). This corresponds to option (4).