Article XXVI: Yoga Sutras

In order to attain enlightenment, there are numerous vices that must be overcome and ultimately eliminated to approach selfless action and non-attachment. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras are formally considered from a separate school of thought from Vedanta philosophy, but Patanjali's Yoga philosophy is closely related to Vedanta and generally embraced by Vedantins. As described by Swami Vivekananda in his writings on Raja Yoga, Patanjali divides the path toward enlightenment into eight steps. The first two are Yama and Niyama. Yama deals with external virtues, e.g. non-killing, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence, and non-receiving of any gifts. Niyama deals with internal virtues, e.g. cleanliness, contentment, austerity, study, and self-surrender to God. Lust certainly is a great challenge in maintaining continence or self-control as prescribed by Patanjali in the Yama step toward enlightenment.