Chapter 13: Yoga and the Hindu Tradition Multiple Choice Questions 1. The author of the Yoga Sutras is A) Yogananda. B) Gopi Krishna. C) Patanjali. D) Sivananda. Answer: C Rationale: Patanjali is traditionally credited with compiling the Yoga Sutras, a collection of aphorisms that form the foundation of classical yoga philosophy. 2. Which of the following is one of the three gunas? A) Tomas B) Rojas C) Sattva D) Samskara Answer: C Rationale: In Hindu philosophy, the three gunas are qualities or attributes that exist in all beings and things. Sattva is the guna associated with purity, harmony, and goodness. 3. Action and the results that action brings are called A) samadhi. B) illumination. C) karma. D) spiritual exercise. Answer: C Rationale: Karma refers to the actions and their consequences, based on the belief that every action has a corresponding effect. 4. The yoga of knowledge is termed A) Jnana Yoga. B) Kundalini Yoga. C) Hatha Yoga. D) Bhakti Yoga. Answer: A Rationale: Jnana Yoga is the path of wisdom and knowledge, focusing on self-realization through the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. 5. Long sessions of spiritual chanting typically form an important part of A) Jnana Yoga. B) Kundalini Yoga. C) Hatha Yoga. D) Bhakti Yoga. Answer: D Rationale: Bhakti Yoga is the path of devotion, emphasizing the loving devotion to a personal god or the divine through practices like chanting, singing, and prayer. 6. Classical yoga, which includes the practice of strict celibacy, vegetarian diet, breathing and concentration exercises, as well as techniques for washing and cleansing the nasal passages is termed A) Hatha Yoga. B) Integral Yoga. C) Prana Yoga. D) Bhakti Yoga. Answer: A Rationale: Hatha Yoga is a traditional branch of yoga that includes physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and other practices aimed at purifying the body and mind. 7. According to Indian metaphysics, the universe is in constant A) trouble. B) vibration. C) tension. D) rhythm. Answer: B Rationale: Indian metaphysics, particularly in the context of Hindu philosophy, often describes the universe as being in a constant state of vibration or pulsation (spanda), reflecting the dynamic nature of existence. 8. This mantra in Vedic chanting is said to be the basic level of vibration in the universe: A) God. B) namah. C) om. D) shivaya. Answer: C Rationale: The mantra "Om" is considered by many to be the primal sound of the universe, representing the essence of creation and the vibrational basis of existence in Vedic philosophy. 9. Through meditation and other inwardly focused disciplines, the yogi brings more and more energy into the A) hypothalamus. B) pingala channel. C) ida channel. D) sushumna channel. Answer: D Rationale: In yoga philosophy, the sushumna channel is believed to be the central energy channel in the body through which the Kundalini energy rises when awakened, leading to spiritual enlightenment. 10. Which chakra is located at the level of the heart? A) Manipura B) Sahasrara C) Svadisthana D) Anahata Answer: D Rationale: The Anahata chakra, also known as the heart chakra, is located at the center of the chest and is associated with love, compassion, and emotional well-being in yoga and Hindu philosophy. 11. Purification of mind and body prepares the entire system to handle higher A) abstraction. B) “voltage.” C) stress. D) heat. Answer: B Rationale: The term "voltage" is used metaphorically here to suggest an increased capacity or intensity of spiritual energy or consciousness that can be managed after the purification process. 12. The two aspects of concentration include withdrawal and A) intention. B) imagination. C) focusing. D) extension. Answer: C Rationale: Concentration involves the ability to withdraw from distractions and focus the mind on a single point or object. 13. This is a highly-advanced practice in which only a single thought remains in the consciousness of the practitioner: A) meditation. B) mindfulness. C) asana. D) bhakti. Answer: A Rationale: In advanced stages of meditation, the practitioner may experience a state where only a single, focused thought or awareness remains. 14. Those who have reached the stage of illumination without content are said to have become totally free of the influences of karma and of their A) prior belief system. B) ego-driven personalities. C) subconscious tendencies. D) work responsibilities. Answer: C Rationale: "Illumination without content" refers to a state of consciousness where there are no mental impressions or subconscious tendencies influencing the mind. 15. The major obstacle to growth is A) ignorance. B) desire. C) aversion. D) egoism. Answer: A Rationale: According to yoga philosophy, ignorance (avidya) is considered the root cause of suffering and the primary obstacle to spiritual growth. 16. According to Patanjali, concern with the external world and active senses specifically inhibits A) growth. B) self-awareness. C) understanding. D) health. Answer: B Rationale: Patanjali suggests that excessive focus on the external world and sensory experiences can hinder self-awareness and inner growth. 17. Those who have attained self-realization understand that their social existence and behavior before realization were largely products of A) sociocultural conditioning. B) hereditary influences. C) mistaken beliefs. D) misguided lifestyle habits. Answer: A Rationale: Self-realization often involves recognizing the extent to which one's thoughts, actions, and behaviors were shaped by societal and cultural influences. 18. The core of human consciousness in the individual is called A) the Self. B) the will. C) prana. D) prakriti. Answer: A Rationale: In yoga philosophy, the "Self" (Atman) is considered the core of human consciousness, distinct from the ego and the physical body. 19. The six different types or functions of a yoga teacher include the Impeller, the Revealer, the Teacher, the Explainer, the Indicator, and the A) Terminator. B) Exacerbator. C) Compeller. D) Illuminator. Answer: D Rationale: Each of these roles or functions describes a different aspect of a yoga teacher's role in guiding and facilitating the student's journey of self-discovery and practice. 20. Research has confirmed the positive effects of yoga on hypertension, blood pressure, anxiety, and A) schizophrenia. B) alcoholism. C) depression. D) phobias. Answer: C Rationale: Yoga has been found to be beneficial in reducing symptoms of depression and improving mental well-being, as supported by scientific research. 21. Without mental and emotional discipline, or without the moral precepts of yoga, yoga techniques can result in A) psychosis. B) unbalanced development. C) self-realization. D) balanced development. Answer: B Rationale: Yoga involves not just physical postures but also mental and emotional practices aimed at holistic well-being. Without the necessary discipline and moral guidance, practitioners may focus too heavily on physical aspects, leading to unbalanced development in other areas of life. This imbalance could manifest as neglect of emotional health or moral values, which are integral to the overall practice of yoga. True False Questions 22. Yoga encompasses only the ascetic and religious practices of India. Answer: False Rationale: While yoga has its origins in ascetic and religious practices in India, it has evolved over time to include a wide range of physical, mental, and spiritual practices that are not limited to any specific culture or religion. Yoga is now practiced worldwide by people of various backgrounds and beliefs. 23. The three gunas are the primary constituents of Spirit. Answer: False Rationale: In Indian philosophy, the three gunas (sattva, rajas, and tamas) are qualities or attributes of the mind and matter, not the Spirit or the self (Atman). The gunas influence one's thoughts, actions, and behavior but are not considered the primary constituents of Spirit, which is considered beyond the influence of the gunas. 24. One of the goals of yoga practice is to decrease rajas and tamas, and increase and intensify sattvic awareness. Answer: True Rationale: In yoga philosophy, the goal is to cultivate sattva, which is characterized by clarity, harmony, and balance. This involves reducing the influence of rajas (activity, passion) and tamas (inertia, dullness) and increasing sattva through practices such as asana, pranayama, meditation, and ethical living. 25. The effects of samskaras on the waves of consciousness show in one’s actions, which in turn influence one’s subconscious tendencies. Answer: True Rationale: Samskaras are mental impressions or imprints left on the mind by past experiences or actions. These samskaras influence one's thoughts, actions, and behavior, which in turn shape one's subconscious tendencies and future experiences. This cyclical nature of samskaras is believed to be a fundamental aspect of the mind according to yoga philosophy. 26. According to the law of karma, a person can never burn the seeds of past actions. Answer: False Rationale: The law of karma suggests that every action has consequences, and these consequences can be mitigated or modified through present actions. While past actions (karma) may influence one's current circumstances, it is believed that one can work towards reducing the effects of negative past actions and generating positive karma through present thoughts and deeds. 27. The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of action with personal attachment. Answer: False Rationale: The Bhagavad Gita actually emphasizes the importance of performing one's duties (dharma) selflessly, without attachment to the results. It teaches that one should focus on the action itself, not the outcomes, and that by doing so, one can attain spiritual growth and liberation. 28. Ramana Maharshi saw self-realization as the task of removing delusional understanding, not as a matter of acquiring something new. Answer: True Rationale: Ramana Maharshi, a renowned sage and spiritual teacher, emphasized the idea that self-realization is not about acquiring something new, but rather about recognizing and removing the false beliefs and attachments that obscure one's true nature. He taught a path of self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) to help individuals realize their true selves. 29. The practice of Karma Yoga is closer to traditional religion than any other form of yoga. Answer: False Rationale: Karma Yoga, one of the paths of yoga outlined in the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes selfless action and service without attachment to the results. While it has spiritual elements, it is not necessarily closer to traditional religion than other forms of yoga. It can be practiced by people of various religious and spiritual backgrounds as a way to cultivate selflessness and spiritual growth. 30. It is best to study Hatha Yoga on one’s own, as it involves deep self-reflection. Answer: False Rationale: While some aspects of Hatha Yoga can be practiced individually, it is often recommended to learn Hatha Yoga under the guidance of a qualified teacher. This is because Hatha Yoga involves physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and relaxation methods that require proper instruction to ensure safety and effectiveness. Additionally, a teacher can provide guidance and support for the deep self-reflection that is part of Hatha Yoga practice. 31. A psychiatrist explained the kundalini process as a transformation of the electromagnetic fields of the body. Answer: True Rationale: Some modern interpretations of the kundalini process, particularly from a scientific or psychological perspective, describe it as a transformation of the electromagnetic fields of the body. This view suggests that the experiences associated with kundalini awakening may be related to changes in brain activity and the body's energy systems, though these explanations are not universally accepted and are often debated within the field of psychology and neuroscience. 32. Research has shown that kundalini awakening is exceedingly rare. Answer: False Rationale: While there is limited scientific research on kundalini awakening, it is not necessarily considered exceedingly rare in the context of spiritual or mystical experiences. Kundalini awakening is described in various spiritual traditions and is believed to be a natural process that can occur through dedicated spiritual practice, though the experiences and interpretations of kundalini awakening can vary widely among individuals. 33. When the brain is stimulated and energized by prana, the individual experiences a tremendous change in consciousness. Answer: False Rationale: While prana is often described as vital energy or life force in yoga philosophy, the idea that it directly stimulates or energizes the brain to produce a tremendous change in consciousness is not universally accepted. The concept of prana is more subtle and is believed to be involved in various physiological and energetic processes in the body, but its direct effect on consciousness is not well-understood or scientifically proven. 34. Abstentions and observances are the yogic equivalent of the Ten Commandments and the principles of right action found in all religions. Answer: True Rationale: In yoga philosophy, the Yamas (abstentions) and Niyamas (observances) are ethical guidelines that serve as the foundation for moral and ethical conduct. They are similar to the principles of right action found in many religions, including the Ten Commandments in Christianity, as they provide a framework for living a virtuous and ethical life. 35. Control of vital energy is a unique and fundamental aspect of yoga. Answer: True Rationale: In yoga, the control and manipulation of prana (vital energy) is considered a fundamental aspect of practice. Techniques such as pranayama (breath control) are used to regulate and direct the flow of prana in the body, with the goal of balancing and harmonizing the physical, mental, and energetic aspects of the individual. 36. Illumination is a static and final state. Answer: False Rationale: In most spiritual traditions, including yoga, illumination or enlightenment is not considered a static or final state but rather a continuous process of spiritual growth and realization. While there may be moments of profound realization or awakening, the journey of self-discovery and spiritual evolution is ongoing and dynamic. 37. There are four stages in the classical, idealized Indian life cycle: student, householder, forest dweller, and renunciant, all of which must be passed through to achieve self-realization. Answer: True Rationale: In traditional Indian society, the four stages of life (Ashramas) are considered ideal for spiritual and personal development. These stages include the student (Brahmacharya), householder (Grihastha), forest dweller (Vanaprastha), and renunciant (Sannyasa). Each stage has its own responsibilities and opportunities for growth, with the ultimate goal of achieving self-realization and liberation (Moksha). 38. According to Patanjali, the five major afflictions include ignorance, egoism, desire, aversion, and jealousy. Answer: False Rationale: According to Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, the five major afflictions (Kleshas) are ignorance (Avidya), egoism (Asmita), attachment (Raga), aversion (Dvesha), and fear of death (Abhinivesha). These afflictions are seen as obstacles to spiritual growth and are addressed through yoga practice and self-awareness. 39. One who has mastered nonattachment enjoys the present without trying to change it by wishing for more pleasure or less pain. Answer: True Rationale: Nonattachment (Vairagya) is an important concept in yoga philosophy, emphasizing the ability to remain unaffected by the dualities of pleasure and pain. One who has mastered nonattachment is able to fully experience the present moment without being driven by desires or aversions, thus finding contentment and peace regardless of external circumstances. 40. Religious devotion can also be learned through social relationships. Answer: True Rationale: In yoga philosophy, religious devotion (Bhakti) is not limited to traditional religious practices but can also be cultivated through loving relationships with others. The idea is that by cultivating selfless love and compassion towards others, one can develop a deeper sense of connection and devotion to the divine or spiritual principles. 41. The Self is changeless and unaffected by physical or mental activity. Answer: True Rationale: According to Advaita Vedanta, a philosophical school within Hinduism, the true Self (Atman) is changeless and unaffected by the fluctuations of the mind or the body. It is the unchanging essence of consciousness that is beyond the realm of physical and mental activity. 42. Many authorities maintain that initiation is important, but not crucial, in yoga practice. Answer: False Rationale: In many traditional schools of yoga, initiation (Diksha) is considered crucial as it is believed to establish a spiritual connection between the teacher and the student, as well as to impart spiritual knowledge and blessings. Initiation is often seen as a formal entry into a specific spiritual path or tradition, and it is considered an important step in one's spiritual journey. 43. At the heart of yoga is theoretical knowledge, rather than experience. Answer: False Rationale: While theoretical knowledge is certainly a part of yoga, at its heart, yoga is a practical and experiential path. The ultimate goal of yoga is not just to understand philosophical concepts but to directly experience the true nature of the self through practices such as meditation, pranayama, and self-inquiry. 44. Yoga can be thought of as essentially a discipline of mindfulness, learning to calm the mind and to direct attention to the present moment. Answer: True Rationale: Mindfulness is a key aspect of yoga practice, as it involves cultivating awareness and presence in the current moment. Through practices such as asana, pranayama, and meditation, practitioners learn to calm the mind, focus their attention, and cultivate a deep awareness of the present moment, which is essential for spiritual growth and self-realization. Essay Questions 45. The essence of yoga is control of the mind. Discuss the different approaches the various schools of yoga have to this problem. Answer: The control of the mind is indeed a central goal in many schools of yoga, but the approaches to achieving this goal can vary. Here are some key approaches from different schools of yoga: 1. Raja Yoga (Classical Yoga): Raja Yoga, as outlined by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, focuses on controlling the mind through the practice of the Eight Limbs of Yoga. These limbs include ethical principles (Yamas and Niyamas), physical postures (Asanas), breath control (Pranayama), sense withdrawal (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and ultimately, Samadhi (union with the divine). The emphasis is on calming the fluctuations of the mind (Chitta Vritti) to achieve a state of stillness and clarity. 2. Jnana Yoga (Yoga of Knowledge): Jnana Yoga emphasizes the cultivation of wisdom and understanding as a means of controlling the mind. Practitioners engage in self-inquiry and philosophical contemplation to discern the true nature of the self and reality, aiming to transcend the limitations of the ego and intellect. 3. Bhakti Yoga (Yoga of Devotion): Bhakti Yoga focuses on developing intense love and devotion towards a higher power or divine principle. By surrendering the ego and cultivating a deep emotional connection to the divine, practitioners aim to transcend the limitations of the individual mind and merge with the universal consciousness. 4. Karma Yoga (Yoga of Action): Karma Yoga emphasizes selfless service and action without attachment to the results. By performing actions as an offering to the divine and seeing oneself as an instrument of a higher will, practitioners aim to overcome selfish desires and ego-based thinking, thus controlling the mind. 5. Hatha Yoga: Hatha Yoga uses physical postures (Asanas) and breath control (Pranayama) to prepare the body and mind for meditation. By purifying the physical body and balancing the subtle energies (Prana), practitioners aim to create a conducive environment for controlling the mind and achieving higher states of consciousness. 6. Kundalini Yoga: Kundalini Yoga focuses on awakening the dormant energy (Kundalini) believed to be coiled at the base of the spine. Through specific practices such as asana, pranayama, mantra, and meditation, practitioners aim to raise this energy through the chakras, ultimately leading to the union of individual consciousness with universal consciousness. Each of these approaches offers a unique perspective and set of practices for controlling the mind, reflecting the diversity and richness of the yoga tradition. 46. In what ways can the chakras be considered a personality system or a system of personality typologies? Answer: The chakras, as described in various yogic and tantric traditions, can be viewed as a system of personality typologies or a framework for understanding individual psychology and behavior. Here's how: 1. Energy Centers: The chakras are believed to be energy centers located along the spine, each associated with specific qualities, emotions, and psychological states. Just as personality typologies categorize individuals based on certain traits or characteristics, the chakras categorize aspects of the individual's energy and consciousness. 2. Developmental Stages: In some interpretations, the chakras are seen as representing different stages of psychological and spiritual development. For example, the lower chakras (Muladhara, Svadhishthana, and Manipura) are associated with basic survival instincts, emotional needs, and personal power, while the higher chakras (Anahata, Vishuddha, Ajna, and Sahasrara) are associated with higher consciousness, intuition, and spiritual awakening. This progression mirrors the stages of human development and maturation seen in psychological theories. 3. Balancing and Healing: Just as personality typologies can be used for self-awareness and personal growth, the chakra system can be used as a tool for balancing and healing the psyche. Practices such as chakra meditation, visualization, and energy work aim to harmonize the chakras and address psychological imbalances, similar to how personality typologies can be used for self-improvement and understanding. 4. Symbolic Representation: The chakras are often depicted symbolically, with each chakra represented by a specific color, element, mantra, and symbol. These symbols can be interpreted as representing different aspects of personality and consciousness, providing a visual and symbolic framework for understanding the complexities of human psychology. Overall, while the chakras are deeply rooted in yogic and spiritual traditions, their symbolism and attributes can also be applied to understanding personality and psychological phenomena in a holistic and integrative way. 47. One goal of yoga is to eventually transcend even positive emotions (e.g., love, joy). Explain the value of this goal in psychological terms. Answer: The goal of transcending even positive emotions in yoga can be understood in psychological terms as a means of achieving a state of equanimity and liberation from the fluctuations of the mind. Positive emotions such as love and joy, while beneficial in many ways, can also be sources of attachment and suffering when they are dependent on external circumstances or objects. By transcending these emotions, practitioners aim to cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment that is not reliant on external factors. From a psychological perspective, this goal can be valuable in several ways: 1. Emotional Regulation: Transcending attachment to positive emotions can help individuals regulate their emotions more effectively, reducing the tendency to be overly influenced by external events or circumstances. This can lead to greater emotional resilience and stability. 2. Reduced Suffering: Attachment to positive emotions can create a sense of dependency and craving, leading to suffering when those emotions are not present or are fleeting. By transcending attachment to these emotions, individuals can reduce their susceptibility to suffering and find greater peace and contentment in any situation. 3. Increased Mindfulness: Transcending attachment to emotions requires a high level of mindfulness and awareness of one's inner state. This can lead to greater self-awareness and insight into the nature of the mind, enhancing psychological well-being and personal growth. 4. Spiritual Growth: In the context of yoga and spiritual practice, transcending even positive emotions is seen as a step towards realizing one's true nature, which is believed to be beyond the fluctuations of the mind. This can lead to a deeper sense of spiritual fulfillment and purpose in life. Overall, the goal of transcending even positive emotions in yoga can be seen as a means of achieving a greater sense of inner freedom, peace, and fulfillment, which can have profound psychological benefits. 48. Compare the role of yoga guru with the role of Western psychotherapist. Answer: The role of a yoga guru and a Western psychotherapist can differ significantly, as they operate within different cultural, philosophical, and therapeutic frameworks. However, there are some similarities and differences worth noting: 1. Goal and Focus: A yoga guru typically aims to guide students on a spiritual path towards self-realization and liberation, using techniques such as meditation, yoga practices, and philosophical teachings. The focus is often on transcending the ego and realizing one's true nature. In contrast, a Western psychotherapist focuses on promoting mental health and well-being, often using techniques rooted in psychology and counseling to help clients address specific psychological issues, improve coping skills, and enhance overall functioning. 2. Training and Credentials: In many traditional yoga lineages, a guru is seen as a spiritual teacher who has undergone rigorous training and may be recognized as a master in a particular tradition. However, the role of a guru is not regulated by professional standards or credentials in the same way that psychotherapists are. Psychotherapists, on the other hand, typically undergo formal training, obtain professional credentials, and adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations governing their practice. 3. Approach to Healing: While both yoga and psychotherapy can be therapeutic, their approaches to healing can differ. Yoga often emphasizes holistic healing, addressing the body, mind, and spirit as interconnected aspects of the self. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, focuses primarily on the mind and psychological processes, using evidence-based techniques to address specific mental health issues. 4. Cultural and Philosophical Context: The role of a guru is deeply rooted in Eastern spiritual and philosophical traditions, which may include beliefs in reincarnation, karma, and the existence of a higher self. In contrast, Western psychotherapy is based on Western psychological theories and practices, which may be more secular and grounded in empirical research. 5. Client-Practitioner Relationship: Both the guru-disciple relationship in yoga and the client-therapist relationship in psychotherapy are characterized by a sense of trust, respect, and confidentiality. However, the nature of these relationships can differ based on cultural norms and expectations. In summary, while there are similarities between the roles of a yoga guru and a Western psychotherapist in terms of providing guidance and support for personal growth and healing, the cultural, philosophical, and therapeutic contexts in which they operate can lead to significant differences in their approaches and practices. Short Answer Questions 49. The goal of yoga practice is ___________-___________ or union of the individual self with cosmic spirit. Answer: self-realization 50. Fruits and vegetables are said to be ___________ in that they promote calmness and thus are suitable for spiritual practice. Answer: sattvic 51. The ___________ is seen as a vehicle for vital energies, or pranas. Answer: body 52. The first chakra called the ____________ is located at the base of the spinal column. Answer: Muladhara 53. In the four-stage Indian life cycle model, the duties of the ___________ include carrying on the family business and rearing a family. Answer: householder 54. The goal of yoga is to eventually trascend even the ___________ emotions. Answer: positive Matching Questions 55. Yoga A. His or her most important attribute is spiritual consciousness 56. Chitta B. “She who is coiled” 57. Asanas C. First and most popular work on yoga 58. Bhaki Yoga D. To join, to unite 59. Hatha Yoga E. Consciousness which embraces all thought processes 60. Prana F. Seven centers of consciousness in the human system 61. Kundalini G. The yoga of devotion 62. Spirit H. Ascetic discipline or austerity 63. Abstentions and observances I. Postures, involved in hatha yoga 64. Chakras J. The moral code that serves as the foundation for yoga practice 65. Bhagavad Gita K. An experience of deep illumination, estatic states of consciousness 66. Samadhi L. Composed of three primary principles, the three gunas 67. Interiorization M. Shutting off of the senses 68. Samskaras N. The yoga of the body 69. Guru O. Pure consciousness without limit or qualification 70. Prakriti (nature) P. Subconscious tendencies 71. Tapas Q. Vital force which sustains all life Answers: 55) D 56) E 57) I 58) G 59) N 60) Q 61) B 62) O 63) J 64) F 65) C 66) K 67) M 68) P 69) A 70) L 71) H Test Bank for Personality and Personal Growth Robert Frager, James Fadiman 9780205953752, 9780205254781
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