“That which describes Īśvara is OM.
However OM is not mentioned as such in the Sūtra
as it is regarded as a mystic symbol given in initiation,
Because Īśvara is not like the God in Vedānta,
the word Praṇava is used to describe OM.”
– TKV Desikachar on Yoga Sūtra Chapter One verse 27

“They will, at the proper time of day
and in an appropriate place, sit and
watch the idol until they can completely
recall the image without having to look at it.
This ability will help the person overcome
the distractions from different sources
when they sit for contemplation on Īśvara.”
– T Krishnamacharya on Yoga Sūtra Chapter One verse 42

Gaṇeśa and the Role of Endings in the Beginnings of Change
“In Indian life, with its rich resources for transformative teachings,
much emphasis is placed on an appropriate beginning for any
situation where the intention is a change towards a more
creative relationship within our life and its surroundings.
Here, this was popularly realised through the symbolism
inherent in the iconography of Gaṇapati or Gaṇeśa,
who was traditionally seen throughout India as the
‘Remover of Obstacles’ and ‘Lord of Beginnings’.
However, in order to successfully initiate an
appropriate beginning we may also need to have
successfully initiated an appropriate ending.
So, how do we as Yoga practitioners in the West,
with our own psychology, culture and attitudes,
appreciate and apply these teachings in our lives?
Especially with regard to the relationship
between the role and importance of apt endings
as a foundation for the rooting of new beginnings.”
– Theme from an old flier for an Autumn Retreat held in November 1996