Significance of Physical desires
Physical desires are characterized as material or sensual urges that can distract individuals from spiritual pursuits, particularly regarding attraction towards women. Historically in India, these desires must be controlled to respect the dignity and rights of others. Additionally, these physical urges encompass the natural instincts of attraction and intimacy. From a scientific perspective, physical desires are linked to basic human needs and wellbeing, which Ayurveda aims to manage through practices such as Brahmacharya.
Synonyms: Lust, Bodily urges, Bodily cravings
In Dutch: Fysieke verlangens; In Finnish: Fyysiset halut; In Spanish: Deseos físicos; In German: Körperliche Wünsche
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Physical desires'
In Hinduism, physical desires are material or sensual urges that may distract individuals from spiritual paths, particularly through attractions to women, highlighting the tension between physical urges and the pursuit of discipline and spirituality.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Material or sensual urges that can lead individuals away from spiritual or disciplined paths, particularly in relation to attraction towards women.[1]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) These are desires that people try to fulfill, and the metaphysical society is facing an unsteady, weakened, hard, and changing lifestyle, which leads to stress.[2]
The concept of Physical desires in local and regional sources
Physical desires encompass human urges that require restraint to uphold the dignity and rights of others, as well as natural instincts tied to physical attraction and intimacy, highlighting the balance between personal impulses and social responsibility.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Human urges that must be restrained to ensure they do not infringe upon the dignity and rights of others.[3] (2) Natural urges related to physical attraction and intimacy.[4]
The concept of Physical desires in scientific sources
Physical desires encompass human urges tied to our physical needs and overall wellbeing. Ayurveda tackles these desires through practices such as Brahmacharya, aiming to harmonize and balance these instincts for enhanced health and vitality.