The first four aspect of Ashtang Yoga has the following correct sequence

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (1):
The system of Ashtang Yoga, as codified by the ancient sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, is a highly structured, progressive path comprising eight distinct limbs, or *angas*. The first four of these are known as the external aids (*Bahiranga Sadhana*), and they must be mastered in a specific, successive order to prepare the practitioner for the more internal disciplines. The correct and traditional sequence for the first four limbs is: **Yama** (universal moral disciplines), **Niyama** (self-purification and self-study), **Asana** (physical postures), and **Pranayama** (breath control). This order is essential because it builds the necessary ethical and physical foundation required for advanced yogic practices.

The incorrect option is (2):
This option, Niyam Yam Asana Pranayam, is incorrect because it reverses the foundational order of the first two limbs. Yama, which deals with ethical restraints such as non-violence and truthfulness in relation to others and the world, must logically come first to establish a moral baseline. Niyama, which focuses on internal observances and self-discipline, is the secondary step that builds upon the ethical foundation set by Yama. Reversing this order disrupts the established pedagogical progression of Ashtang Yoga.

The incorrect option is (3):
The sequence Asana Pranayam Yam - Niyam is incorrect as it places Asana and Pranayama, which are the physical and energetic components, before the ethical limbs, Yama and Niyama. Patanjali's system is clear that spiritual and mental purification through ethical living (Yama and Niyama) is the prerequisite for effective practice of the physical postures (Asana) and breath work (Pranayama). Furthermore, the specific sequence of the ethical limbs is also scrambled.

The incorrect option is (4):
The option Pranayam Asana Niyam - Yam completely scrambles the correct traditional sequence of the first four limbs. It incorrectly starts the path with Pranayama, the fourth limb, and follows it with Asana, the third limb. Most importantly, it places the two most foundational elements, Yama and Niyama, at the very end of this four-limb sequence. The moral and ethical precepts of Yama and Niyama are the essential starting point for all eight limbs, making this proposed order entirely inconsistent with Patanjali's classical yoga philosophy.