Dvitīya-prakaraṇam (Niyama) · Verse 2

एते तु नियमाः प्रोक्तास्तांश्च सर्वान्पृथक् शृणु । विधिनोक्तेन मार्गेण कृच्छ्रचान्द्रायणादिभिः ॥

ete tu niyamāḥ proktāstāṃśca sarvānpṛthak śṛṇu | vidhinoktena mārgeṇa kṛcchracāndrāyaṇādibhiḥ ||

Prakaraṇa 2, verse 2 establishes the niyama as a foundational element of the yogic path, a set of internal disciplines to be practiced with unwavering focus. The instruction to “listen to them all separately” suggests a deliberate pedagogical approach, echoing the classical Vedic method of initially presenting a comprehensive system before dissecting its constituent parts. This reflects the broader yogic tradition of gradual unveiling, where a holistic understanding is built upon a firm grasp of individual practices. The mention of kṛcchra, cāndrāyaṇa, and others – likely specific teachers or lineages – points to a structured transmission of knowledge, emphasizing the importance of qualified guidance in navigating these essential precepts. The emphasis on individual contemplation of each niyama prepares the practitioner for a deeply internalized and transformative experience, moving beyond mere intellectual assent to genuine engagement with the ethical framework of yoga.