Dvitīya-prakaraṇam (Niyama) · Verse 9

विशां च केचिदिच्छन्ति शीलवृत्तवतां सताम् । शूद्राणां च स्त्रियैश्चैव स्वधर्मस्थतपस्विनाम् ॥

viśāṃ ca kecidicchanti śīlavṛttavatāṃ satām | śūdrāṇāṃ ca striyaiścaiva svadharmasthatapasvinām ||

Expanding the scope of siddhānta’s value, verse 9 articulates its relevance beyond the traditional intellectual elite. The desire to hear siddhānta is extended to virtuous vaishyas – merchants and traders – and shudras (laborers), as well as ascetics (tapas) firmly grounded in their dharma (righteous duty). This signifies a shift from a purely intellectual approach to a more inclusive understanding of yogic practice, one that acknowledges the potential for spiritual realization regardless of social standing or occupation. The emphasis on shila (good conduct) amongst the vaishyas and the tapas of the ascetics underscores the crucial role of ethical discipline (yama and niyama) as a prerequisite for accessing deeper states of consciousness. It reflects a subtle but important recognition that the path of yoga is not solely a matter of philosophical contemplation, but demands a holistic transformation of character and behavior.