Significance of Sanyasin

Sanyasin is a term that refers to individuals who renounce worldly life in pursuit of spiritual emancipation. In the context of Purana and Vedanta, a Sanyasin is someone who relinquishes materialistic attachments to focus on spiritual realization and the understanding of the Atman. Historically, a Sanyasin can also refer to a beggar or an ascetic, exemplifying a lifestyle dedicated to deep spiritual pursuits, as seen in the life of figures like Sri Thyagaraja.

Synonyms: Renunciant, Ascetic, Monk, Hermit, Seeker, Spiritual disciple, Holy man, Recluse, Sage

In Dutch: Sanyasin; In Finnish: Sanyasin; In Spanish: Sanyasin

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Sanyasin'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Sanyasin represents an individual who renounces worldly attachments to pursue spiritual knowledge and emancipation, embodying a lifestyle oriented towards understanding the Atman and adhering to prohibitory injunctions.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) A term used to describe someone who has renounced worldly attachments and seeks spiritual knowledge, embodying a lifestyle that honors prohibitory injunctions.[1]

From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) A person who renounces worldly attachments and seeks a life focused on spiritual realization and the understanding of the Atman.[2]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

The concept of Sanyasin in local and regional sources

History Books

Sanyasin signifies an ascetic devoted to spiritual practices, embodying renunciation. This term reflects various interpretations, from dedicated spiritual seekers like Sri Thyagaraja to those questioning their divine ties, highlighting diverse paths to spirituality.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Individuals who have renounced worldly life, often after having lived as householders.[3] (2) A renunciant or ascetic; Vallabhacharya took this role towards the end of his life.[4] (3) An ascetic or monk, often practicing renunciation and deep spiritual pursuits.[5] (4) A beggar or a renunciate as referred to the poetess questioning her divine connection.[6] (5) An ascetic or renouncer who dedicates their life to spiritual pursuits, as exemplified by Sri Thyagaraja's life.[7]