Significance of Celibacy
Celibacy is a significant practice across various philosophical and religious traditions, including Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, and others. It refers to the state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often viewed as essential for spiritual growth. Devotees, ascetics, and practitioners across these traditions commit to celibacy to enhance their spiritual focus, purity, and adherence to spiritual disciplines. The concept emphasizes the importance of abstaining from physical pleasures and desires to achieve higher states of consciousness and spiritual accomplishments.
Synonyms: Abstinence, Chastity, Purity, Continence, Virginity
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Celibacy'
In Buddhism, celibacy is seen as a practice of abstaining from sexual activity, particularly adhered to by bhikkhus, to facilitate a disciplined Holy Life focused on spiritual development and enlightenment.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The practice of abstaining from sexual activity, observed by the bhikkhu as part of the Holy Life.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Celibacy'
Celibacy in Hinduism emphasizes abstaining from sexual relations for spiritual growth and discipline. It is practiced by ascetics and laypeople alike, aiming for spiritual purity, heightened focus in worship, and commitment to spiritual goals.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A commitment to refraining from sexual activity, emphasized for those observing the Bhishma Pancaka Vrata.[2] (2) A state of abstaining from marriage or sexual relations, which Vritra adheres to as part of his spiritual discipline.[3] (3) A state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, which Vahni claimed to be afflicted by in his request for marriage.[4] (4) The vow of abstention from sexual relations, typically upheld by Brahmanas, whichRicika expected of his family.[5] (5) The intentional abstinence from sexual activity, looked upon favorably in religious observance.[6]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The state of abstaining from sexual relations, recommended for those observing the Ekadashi for spiritual advancement.[7] (2) The state of abstaining from sexual relations, highly regarded during religious observances, particularly on sacred days.[8] (3) The practice of abstaining from sexual activities, viewed within the text as a means of spiritual discipline and devotion.[9] (4) The state of abstaining from sexual relations, which is emphasized in ascetic practices.[10] (5) The practice of abstaining from marital relations, which is mandated for the observer of the Kartika vow.[11]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, prescribed for certain religious practitioners.[12] (2) A practice emphasized for those performing the Pashupata-vrata to maintain spiritual purity.[13] (3) The state of abstaining from sexual relations, often associated with heightened spiritual focus and discipline in worship.[14]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often associated with spiritual discipline.[15] (2) The practice of abstaining from sexual relations, which is a fundamental aspect of life for a householder and further for a sannyasin.[16] (3) A vow of single life that some characters like Narada and the seven sages adhered to as part of their spiritual practices.[17]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The vow of abstaining from sexual intercourse, relevant for ascetics and householders.[18] (2) A state that devotees must maintain to ensure the efficacy of the rites, emphasizing purity and dedication to the spiritual practice.[19]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The disciplined abstention from sexual activity, which is considered critical for spiritual development.[20]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Abstaining from sexual relations, often practiced by those seeking spiritual advancement.[21]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A lifestyle choice that contributes to the acquisition of spiritual powers through abstinence from sexual relations.[22]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Described as Brahmacarya, it is a state marked by abstinence from sexual intercourse, seen as a significant aspect of penance.[23]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A means declared necessary for meditation, encouraging purity and focus away from distractions.[24] (2) It is prescribed as a means for achieving spiritual goals, particularly important for those who struggle with desires and attachments.[25] (3) The practice of renouncing desire for women, seen as a vital means for attaining the Brahman-Region and ultimate knowledge.[26] (4) A practice endorsed as a means for attaining the Self, equated with sacrifice, worship, and meditation, emphasizing its importance in spiritual life.[27] (5) A means of abstinence that facilitates clarity in understanding the spiritual light of Brahman.[28]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The practice of abstaining from sexual relationships, associated with spiritual purity.[29]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often pursued for spiritual reasons.[30]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The practice of abstaining from sexual relations, regarded here as an important aspect of leading a spiritual life.[31]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) Celibacy is a spiritual discipline emphasizing abstention from sexual relations, valued within certain ascetic paths for achieving higher states of consciousness and spiritual purity.[32]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, practiced by Sanat-kumara.[33]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The practice of abstaining from sexual activity, observed for a prescribed duration before performing curses.[34]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) One of the yamas that refers to abstaining from sexual activities for spiritual growth.[35]
Jain concept of 'Celibacy'
In Jainism, celibacy signifies a vow of abstaining from sexual relations for spiritual freedom, particularly exemplified by Kalasavesiya-putra, and is deemed inappropriate during the householder phase, emphasizing its role in spiritual practice.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, noted as unsuitable during the householder stage.[36]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A vow of abstaining from sexual relations, practiced diligently by Kalasavesiya-putra as part of his commitment to spiritual freedom.[37]
The concept of Celibacy in local and regional sources
Celibacy is the state of remaining unmarried, linked to spirituality, education, and personal choices. It encompasses lifelong vows, lifestyle choices, and influences relationships, as illustrated by Tirumal Rao and Nirmal's experiences.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The state of remaining unmarried that Tirumal Rao chose, discussed in the context of his relationship with spirituality and life choices.[38] (2) Nirmal's initial commitment to celibacy, which he later regrets giving up for marriage.[39] (3) A lifestyle choice characterized by abstinence from marriage and sexual relations, as adopted by Noemie after Jean's death.[40] (4) A vow of life-long Brahmacharya insisted upon by Ramakrishna to protect disciples from temptations seen as distractions from spiritual paths.[41]
From: Formal Education System in Ancient India
(1) A state of remaining unmarried and often associated with the dedication to education, observed by certain women and men during the epic age.[42]
The concept of Celibacy in scientific sources
Celibacy, in Ayurvedic context, involves abstaining from sexual activity to improve the chances of conception and maintain health, particularly concerning conditions like Upadamsha, emphasizing its significance in reproductive health practices.
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) Abiding by abstaining from sexual activities, which can also impact the health concerning Upadamsha.[43]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Celibacy, in the context of Ayurveda, is the practice of abstaining from sexual activity for a period before attempting to conceive to enhance the chances of achieving conception.[44]
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The practice of abstaining from sexual activity, recommended for menstruating women to avoid complications and maintain health.[45]