Significance of Brahmacarya
Brahmacarya, in Hinduism, refers to a disciplined lifestyle focused on celibacy and spiritual practice, primarily during the student phase of life. It signifies a commitment to learning under a teacher, emphasizing self-control and purity as essential for spiritual growth. Various traditions within Hinduism, including Vaishnavism and Vedanta, view Brahmacarya as vital for achieving higher states of being, personal development, and attaining spiritual goals. This principle of celibacy and discipline is fundamental to the quest for knowledge and realization of the Self.
Synonyms: Celibacy, Chastity, Self-restraint, Abstinence, Purity, Discipline
In Dutch: Brahmacarya
In Finnish: Brahmacarya
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Brahmacarya'
Brahmacarya in Buddhism signifies the observance of strict rules, sexual abstinence during studies, and embodies spiritual discipline reflected in the lives of dedicated practitioners, emphasizing a commitment to holiness and ethical conduct.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Refers to the spiritual and ethical conduct expected of individuals dedicated to a religious or ascetic life.[1] (2) The rigorous observation of prescribed rules and sexual continence, particularly during a novice's studies; it signifies both a holy and religious life.[2]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) A term referring to the practice of holy conduct and discipline observed by Mahamaudgalyayana.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Brahmacarya'
Brahmacarya in Hinduism denotes a disciplined lifestyle focused on celibacy and spiritual practice, essential for individual growth and enlightenment. It encompasses self-control, study, and commitment to spiritual learning, particularly in the student phase of life.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A stage of life in Hindu philosophy focusing on purity, discipline, and celibacy, often associated with spiritual learning.[4] (2) A mode of life characterized by celibacy and self-discipline, linked to spiritual pursuits.[5] (3) A vow of celibacy or self-restraint, particularly practiced by Brahmanas.[6] (4) A life of celibacy and adherence to spiritual practices that contribute to one’s purity and wisdom.[7] (5) A concept signifying self-restraint and the observance of celibacy, often considered an important practice for achieving spiritual goals.[8]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The stage of life characterized by celibacy and strict adherence to spiritual pursuits.[9] (2) The vow of celibacy; strict self-control regarding sexual relations, particularly for ascetics.[10] (3) A committed practice of celibacy and self-control yielding significant spiritual benefits.[11] (4) The practice of celibacy viewed as foundational to all virtuous activity.[12] (5) The practice of celibacy, particularly within the context of spiritual discipline and devotion.[13]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The first stage of the four stages of life, considered as the period of education and discipline, focusing on Vedic study and all round development of the student.[14] (2) The first stage of ashrama, representing student life and the duties associated with being a student.[15]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A disciplined lifestyle focusing on celibacy and education in spiritual and philosophical texts, essential for spiritual growth.[16] (2) The stage of life focused on education and celibacy, regarded as essential for spiritual development.[17]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Celibacy considered a profound penance marked by self-control and avoidance of sexual thoughts.[18] (2) A lifestyle of celibacy and spiritual discipline observed by the sages during the Sattra.[19]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Celibacy or a mode of life that is dedicated to spiritual practice and learning, which must be observed by devotees during the listening rite.[20]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Celibacy and a lifestyle of austerity practiced by pious contemplative sages who aim for spiritual realization.[21]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to Ruru's purity and disciplined lifestyle that he utilizes as a means to regain Pramadvara's life.[22]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The life of celibacy practiced by a boy while studying the Vedas.[23]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Brahmacarya refers to a disciplined lifestyle focused on self-control and spiritual pursuit, central to the practice of seeking knowledge of the Self and living a life centered around Brahman.[24] (2) A state of life characterized by celibacy, discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge, which Indra practiced during his time with Prajapati.[25] (3) A discipline of continence and self-control advocated as a means to realize the Self.[26] (4) A state of self-discipline and celibacy, through which the individual self attains liberation and union with the Cosmic Self.[27] (5) A practice associated with self-control and continence, believed to lead to the attainment of the immortal Self.[28]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) An eight-fold vow emphasized by the ascetics promoting celibacy and righteous living.[29] (2) The practice of celibacy, considered a great virtue in the context of spiritual discipline.[30]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A practice of celibacy and self-discipline emphasized in the Upanishads as essential for the realization of spiritual aims.[31]
From: Prashna Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A state of celibacy or self-restraint in pursuit of spiritual knowledge and enlightenment.[32]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The period of life dedicated to learning and celibacy, essential in Hindu ashrama system.[33]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Refers to the duties associated with the Brahmacarin, a student or celibate who is engaged in spiritual study and practice.[34]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A stage of life characterized by celibacy and study, particularly emphasized during the period following the upanayana samskara.[35] (2) The first stage in the ashrama system of life, focusing on education and learning under a teacher.[36]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A stage in life dedicated to educational pursuits, marked by celibacy and commitment to learning, as per ancient Indian traditions.[37] (2) The stage of childhood focused on education and celibacy, suitable for the attainment of Dharma.[38]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Brahmacarya signifies continence or the subjugation of carnal desires, promoting self-discipline in spiritual practice.[39]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Continence, which is the practice of self-restraint in relation to sensory pleasures and desires.[40]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A spiritual practice and observance that the student must follow while learning the Vedas, often associated with the discipline of celibacy.[41]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A period of study and observance lasting twelve years for each Veda, during which a student learns and performs specific duties.[42]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) A virtue emphasizing celibacy and self-control, considered vital for the moral development of students engaged in the pursuit of knowledge.[43]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A way of life that leads upwards and is regarded as essential for spiritual and physical growth.[44]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Brahmacarya refers to the state of being a student dedicated to learning and spiritual practice, under the guidance of a teacher.[45]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A stage of life characterized by celibacy and study, representing youth and learning in traditional Hindu culture.[46]
The concept of Brahmacarya in local and regional sources
Brahmacarya encompasses the first life stage emphasizing education and preparation, signifies celibacy and spiritual discipline post-Upanayana, and represents Rama's vow of celibacy, highlighting its importance in personal transformation and spiritual commitment.
From: Formal Education System in Ancient India
(1) The first stage of life focusing on education and preparation for future responsibilities.[47] (2) A life of celibacy and spiritual discipline which the student aspires to achieve after the Upanayana ceremony.[48]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A vow taken by Rama to live a celibate life, which he cites while rejecting Surpanakha.[49]
The concept of Brahmacarya in scientific sources
Brahmacarya is a lifestyle principle in Ayurveda that emphasizes self-control and moderation, playing a crucial role in promoting health and well-being through disciplined living and conscious choices.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) A lifestyle principle in Ayurveda emphasizing self-control and moderation to promote health and well-being.[50]
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) A principle of celibacy believed to enhance mental faculties and longevity.[51]
From: Ayushdhara journal
(1) Celibacy or self-restraint, a principle in Ayurveda aimed at promoting health and wellbeing.[52]