Owing to the darkness arising from the multiplicity of opinions, people are unable to know Raja Yoga. The compassionate Svātmārāma composes the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā like a torch to dispel it.

This verse explains the motivation for writing the text. Bahumata-dhvānte — “the darkness of multiple opinions” — indicates that already in the 15th century there was confusion about yoga teachings.

The title of the text is revealed here: Haṭha Pradīpikā means “Light on Haṭha” or “Lamp of Haṭha”. Pradīpikā comes from pradīpa (lamp), suggesting that this text illuminates the path through the darkness of ignorance and confusion.

Kṛpākaraḥ — “source of compassion” — Svātmārāma does not write for fame, but out of compassion for those who seek but cannot find clarity.