Which of the following comes under Antaranga Yoga?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (1):
Dhyana, which translates to "Meditation," is correctly classified as a part of **Antaranga Yoga** or the "Inner Practice" of Patanjali's Ashtanga Yoga. The eight limbs are systematically grouped to guide the practitioner from the outer, physical preparations to the deepest internal states. Antaranga Yoga comprises the three final, most internal limbs: Dharana (Concentration), Dhyana (Meditation), and Samadhi (Absorption). Dhyana is the seventh step, representing a state of sustained, uninterrupted concentration where the mind transcends mere focus. In this state, the meditator experiences a profound awareness that is seamlessly connected to the object of focus, thereby marking a critical, purely mental transition to the ultimate state of Samadhi.

The incorrect option is (2):
Pranayama, or "Breath Control," is the fourth limb of Ashtanga Yoga and is generally considered part of **Bahiranga Yoga** (Outer Practices) or a bridging step, not Antaranga Yoga. Bahiranga Yoga is comprised of the first five limbs: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, and Pratyahara. Pranayama's core objective is to regulate the *Prana* (life force) by controlling the respiratory process, which in turn calms the nervous system. While it involves internal energy, its use of the breath, a physical manifestation, classifies it as a preparatory practice. Its role is to stabilize the body and mind after Asana, making it a foundation for the truly mental practices of Antaranga Yoga, but not a part of that inner triad itself.

The incorrect option is (3):
Niyama, which signifies "Personal Observances" or positive duties, is the second limb of the eight-fold path and falls squarely under **Bahiranga Yoga**. Niyama, along with Yama (Moral Restraints), forms the essential ethical foundation and code of personal conduct for the aspiring yogi. These practices, such as purity (*Saucha*) and contentment (*Santosha*), are concerned with external and behavioral self-discipline necessary for a harmonious life. Since these are foundational ethical and disciplinary steps dealing with one's actions and interaction with the world, they are distinctly classified as external practices and precede the deeper internal focus of Antaranga Yoga.

The incorrect option is (4):
Asana, meaning "Physical Postures," is the third limb and is firmly categorized under **Bahiranga Yoga**. The primary purpose of Asana in the context of Patanjali's Sutras is not complex physical fitness, but achieving a steady and comfortable "seat." This physical stillness is essential so that the practitioner can sit for extended periods in concentration and meditation without physical distraction or restlessness. Its focus is entirely on controlling and preparing the physical body—the most external of the yogi’s elements. Therefore, this physical practice is a crucial, external prerequisite for the truly internal and purely mental disciplines that make up Antaranga Yoga.