Significance of Continence
Continence, or brahmacarya, involves the restraint of sexual power and desires, emphasizing self-discipline and control over impulses. In Yoga, it signifies avoiding thoughts and actions leading to sexual indulgence. Vedanta views it as essential for self-realization, while Dharmashastra identifies it as a vow for Renunciates. In Indian history, it aligns with the Jain principle of celibacy and self-restraint, underscoring that those consumed by material pursuits cannot appreciate its ideals.
Synonyms: Self-control, Moderation, Temperance, Abstinence, Self-restraint, Self-discipline
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Continence'
In Buddhism, continence is approved due to the belief in arhats. It signifies self-restraint and disciplined behavior, crucial for spiritual advancement and aligning with the path to enlightenment.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) It is approved due to the belief in the existence of arhats, signifying self-restraint and disciplined behavior.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Continence'
In Hinduism, Continence emphasizes self-discipline for self-realization, involving practices like brahmacarya, which entails sexual restraint and control over desires, pivotal for renunciates in their spiritual journey.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The conservation of manly vigour is achieved through this practice, and its attainment of a high degree results in abundant vigour.[2] (2) Continence, also known as brahmacarya, involves the subjugation of carnality, highlighting the importance of controlling desires and maintaining celibacy or sexual restraint.[3]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) Continence is chastity in thought, word, and deed, requiring freedom from the idea of sex to achieve purity of heart, which is vital for spiritual growth.[4]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Continence (brahmacarya) is the restraint of sexual power and desires, highlighting the need to control one's impulses and not act on hidden desires.[5]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) An act that aids in purifying the mind, making it placid and tranquil, thus freeing it from darkness.[6]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The practice associated with maintaining self-discipline that aids in the realization of the Self, according to Shankara.[7]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The text refers to studentship as a state of "continence", which is the vow that is broken by intentionally allowing manhood to run out, indicating a violation of sexual restraint.[8] (2) The practice of self-control is one of the vows for the Renunciate, according to the provided text.[9]
Jain concept of 'Continence'
In Jainism, Continence involves daily restraints, particularly concerning food like vegetables and fruits. It emphasizes a general practice of self-control and abstinence.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Daily he will accept especially the restraints on food, vegetables, fruits, et cetera and he will generally observe continence.[10]
The concept of Continence in local and regional sources
Continence embodies self-restraint and the ability to appreciate higher ideals, contrasting with those obsessed with material wealth. It aligns with Jain principles of brahmacharya, emphasizing celibacy and the pursuit of spiritual over material gain.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Continence, according to the text, results in the gain of tremendous energy and gigantic will-power, and the chaste brain has tremendous energy, which is essential for spiritual strength and leadership.[11] (2) A quality that those who are devoid of, and are running after money day and night, will never be able to appreciate the ideals of the Math.[12]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The Jain principle of brahmacharya, emphasizing self-restraint and celibacy.[13]
The concept of Continence in scientific sources
Continence, particularly urinary continence, signifies the ability to control bladder function. Achieving and maintaining continence is the simplest of the "pentafecta parameters" and profoundly enhances a patient's long-term quality of life.
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Continence, specifically urinary continence, refers to the ability to control bladder function, and maintaining continence is the easiest pentafecta parameter to achieve and has the greatest long-term impact on a patient's quality of life.[14]
Classical concept of 'Continence'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) "Continence" and incontinence are related to exceeding the typical behavior of most people, with the continent man adhering to resolutions more and the incontinent man adhering to them less than most.[15] (2) Continence is associated with abiding by the right choice and true opinion, representing a state where one does not act contrary to the rule for the sake of bodily pleasures.[16] (3) It involves mastering pleasures, pains, appetites and aversions. It is a state where an individual is able to conquer and control their desires and impulses, making it more worthy of choice than simply resisting.[17] (4) Continence and incontinence are not simple when mastering brutish or morbid states, but are so by analogy, like someone with fits of anger, suggesting a complex relationship with self-control.[18] (5) It is related to pleasures and pains, often discussed alongside endurance, and contrasted with the behaviors of softness; it involves a degree of control over one's desires and actions.[19]