Transformation of the concept of "dhyana" in yoga teachings

The presented publication enables modern researchers and practitioners of yoga to gain a deeper understanding of yogic meditation — dhyana. The monograph examines the process of formation and development of the philosophical principles of dhyana in a historical perspective. The author carefully studies and illustrates the diversity of views and definitions that shape the concept of “dhyana” in the Vedic, epic, classical and Gatha-yogic periods. To reflect the ideas of each of the indicated eras, a Ukrainian translation of new fragments of Sanskrit primary sources has been made for the first time. It is shown how changes in the meaning of the concept of “dhyana” influenced the development of the teachings of yoga, the practice of yogis and differently shaped the idea of ​​such a familiar concept for modern man as “thinking”.

The monograph, as a thorough comprehensive study, encourages further study of intellectual trends in the development of yoga and its interaction with other philosophical and esoteric teachings. The book is addressed to scholars, teachers, graduate students, students, everyone interested in the history of Indian and Western philosophical thought, and yoga practitioners.