The Niyamas are the observances for oneself and are five in number. They are Saucha or purity, Santosha or contentment, Tapas or practices that lead to perfection of body and mind and senses, Svadhyaya or study that leads to knowledge of the Self and Ishvara-pranidhana or surrender to the Ultimate Reality.

From Lectures on Yoga, Practical Lessons on Yoga by Swami Rama, published by Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy, 1976.

Svadhyaya is study leading to knowledge of the Self. This study begins with intellectual pursuit and understanding of the scriptures and other books of spiritual value. Rational acceptance of spiritual truths leads upon further reflection and meditation to intuitive insights and then to true understanding of these truths. These insights are supported by the study of the internal states of consciousness. Only then does knowledge of the Self begin to dawn on the aspirant.

From Choosing a Path by Sri Swami Rama, published by Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy of the U.S.A., 1998.

Svadhyaya is a study leading to the knowledge of Self-realization. This study is conducted on two dimensions and not simply by studying the sayings of the great sages, or the scriptures. The sayings of the great sages do inspire and support the student in the pursuit of his practices. But studying one’s own thoughts, emotions, deeds, and actions is the real study. The scriptures and other books of spiritual value help the student, for many great sages and yogis who have trodden the path of enlightenment have imparted their direct experience, and such knowledge is very helpful, especially when the student faces certain obstacles on the path. Mere study of the scriptures is the sort of information that is really not knowledge, but only a part of knowing. We intellectually know many things, yet our ignorance is not dispelled. By self-study, or studying within and without, we experience directly that which dispels the darkness of avidya, or ignorance. The great sages, the yogis, impart their practical experience, and this rational acceptance of spiritual truths leads the student to the higher state, the source of intuition. The finest source of all knowledge opens itself and then the true understanding of life and its purpose is understood. Only when one has carefully learned the study of his own internal states will the true knowledge of the Self begin to dawn.

Editor’ Note

From Lectures on Yoga, Practical Lessons on Yoga by Swami Rama, published by Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy, 1976.