The Popularity of Yogaswita: Why Yoga Vasistha is Less Known Compared to Bhagavad Gita

Why is Yoga Vasistha by Valmiki not as popular as Bhagavad Gita, despite both being significant works of Indian origin that offer profound insights into living a fulfilling life? This article explores the reasons behind the relative obscurity of Yoga Vasistha, focusing on its authenticity, historical context, and the readability and appeal to a wider audience of the Bhagavad Gita.

The Authenticity of Yoga Vasistha

The notion that Yoga Vasistha is a false attribution to Valmiki and VashiShTha challenges its historical credibility. It is important to note that no mention of this work is found during the time of Shankaracharya, a prominent Indian philosopher and theologian. His main commentators, who followed him, also did not reference this text. How credible is it, then, for it to be attributed to figures like Valmiki or VashiShTha, who are believed to have lived long after Shankaracharya's time?

The content of Yoga Vasistha often contradicts the teachings of Valmiki and other respected sages of that era. A discerning reader can easily discern the inconsistencies in the text, making it difficult to accept the authenticity of the work. Despite the efforts of some to promote Yoga Vasistha, it remains an obscure text, still needing to be scrutinized for its actual authorship and historical significance.

Comparing Yoga Vasistha and Bhagavad Gita

While Yoga Vasistha and Bhagavad Gita share similar themes and teachings, they differ significantly in their approach and accessibility. The tone and fervor of Yoga Vasistha require a greater intellectual prowess to understand, making it less accessible to the general reader. On the other hand, Bhagavad Gita is concise and straightforward, appealing to a broader audience.

Historically, Bhagavad Gita has been more accessible due to its simple and direct teachings. It has a timeless appeal that resonates with people of all backgrounds and cultures, making it a popular text for centuries. The text's ability to communicate complex philosophical ideas in an easily digestible manner has played a significant role in its enduring popularity.

The Impact of Casteism and Colonial Influence

Another factor that influences the popularity of religious texts in Hinduism is casteism and colonial influence. For decades, birth-based casteism has hindered the knowledge of Hinduism among many Hindus, who prioritize daily life over religious education. This has led to a lack of awareness about important texts like the Bhagavad Gita.

During the colonial era, the British recognized the need for a monotheistic approach to unite Indians, similar to their approach with Christianity. The Bhagavad Gita served this purpose well, as it emphasizes the importance of dharma (duty) and encourages action, fitting the needs of the time. Consequently, the Bhagavad Gita was widely translated and printed during this period, further increasing its popularity.

While the Bhagavad Gita has numerous other versions and interpretations, some equally as acclaimed, such texts have not enjoyed the same level of popularity. This suggests that historical and cultural contexts play a significant role in the dissemination and acceptance of religious texts.

The Resurgence of Yoga and Meditation in the West

The resurgence of interest in yoga and meditation in the Western world is attributed to the lack of interest in traditional practices like yajna (rituals), pooja,

rituals, and astrology. These practices are easier to perform and have been historically more profitable, leading to their greater popularity. However, more recently, there has been a revival of interest in spiritual practices like Shivas the Adi Yogi, vairagya (detachment), and the concept of adi yogi (original yogi).

While traditional practices were pushed aside, the bhakti (devotion) movement was a significant factor in overshadowing these practical exercises. The popularity of devotion has led to more emphasis on ritualistic practices, which are easier to follow. However, there is a growing recognition of the importance of karma (action) and dharma (duty) in modern society, leading to a reevaluation of traditional spiritual practices. As awareness and education about these practices increase, there is a hope for a resurgence in the appreciation of Yoga Vasistha and other spiritual texts.

In conclusion, the relative obscurity of Yoga Vasistha can be attributed to its disputed authenticity, its complex and less accessible nature, and the historical context of Hinduism and colonial influence. While Yoga Vasistha continues to be a valuable text for those who seek deeper spiritual understanding, its current popularity pales in comparison to that of the Bhagavad Gita, which has resonated with a much wider audience due to its simplicity and the historical events that contributed to its popularization.