These [yamas], not limited by class, place, time, or circumstance, are universal and constitute the great vow.

The yamas are not relative or contextual. They are sārvabhauma, universal, applicable to all:

Jāti: regardless of caste, profession, or social condition. Deśa: regardless of geographical or cultural location. Kāla: regardless of era or stage of life. Samaya: regardless of particular circumstances.

Mahāvrata is the “great vow,” the fundamental commitment. There are no exceptions: “I can lie because it’s convenient” or “violence is justified in this case.”

This universality distinguishes the yamas from conventional rules. They are absolute principles, the ground upon which all authentic spiritual life is built.