What is Brahmacharya? (...and how can this apply to my life?)
Brahmacharya is a concept in Hindu, Jain, and yogic traditions that generally refers to a lifestyle characterized by moderation and control over one's physical and mental energies, particularly with regard to sexuality.
Brahmacharya reminds me a lot of Philippians 4:8, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. By focusing attention and thoughts to life giving and edifying things, we can turn away from overindulgences. This can be seen in relationship as well as all aspects of life. Practicing discipline and self restraint is vital to retaining balance and connection with health and vitality as well as spiritual health.
The Sanskrit term is derived from Brahman, meaning “Ultimate Reality” or “Divine Creator,” and charya, meaning “to move” or “to follow.” Brahmacharya is also frequently translated as “right use of energy.”
The importance of brahmacharya is rooted in its positive impact on individual well-being, spiritual growth, and the pursuit of higher knowledge. Here are some reasons why brahmacharya is considered important:
Spiritual Growth: Brahmacharya is believed to be conducive to spiritual growth and self-realization. By channeling and conserving one's vital energy, individuals can focus on their spiritual practices and develop a deeper understanding of the self.
Control of Desires: Brahmacharya involves restraining sensual desires, especially those related to sexuality. This control over desires is seen as a means to overcome attachments and cravings, leading to a more balanced and harmonious life.
Increased Mental Clarity: Practicing brahmacharya is thought to lead to increased mental clarity and concentration. By avoiding excessive indulgence in sensory pleasures, individuals may experience greater mental focus and heightened awareness.
Enhanced Physical Health: The practice of moderation in various aspects of life, including diet and lifestyle, can contribute to improved physical health. This, in turn, supports overall well-being and vitality.
Balanced Energy Channels: In yogic philosophy, it is believed that the vital life force energy (prana) can be better regulated and balanced through the practice of brahmacharya. This balanced flow of energy is considered essential for physical and mental health.
Cultivation of Discipline: Brahmacharya encourages discipline and self-control. By consciously choosing moderation over excess, individuals develop the ability to manage their impulses and lead a more disciplined life.
Harmonious Relationships: Practicing brahmacharya can lead to more harmonious and respectful relationships. By cultivating a balanced approach to sexuality and relationships, individuals can establish healthier connections with others.
Cultural and Religious Significance: Brahmacharya is often seen as a crucial aspect of the ethical and moral guidelines outlined in religious and cultural traditions. It is considered a noble path that aligns with virtuous living.
Satsang by Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati
Once upon a time there were two monks, who were friends and were walking in a desert heading to their monastery, from which they were away for a longtime. In their way back, they came across an impetuous river. As they were walking along the shore looking for a bridge, they found a woman crying a bit further down, next to a demolished bridge.
“What’s wrong dear?” asks the older of the two monks.
“My family is at the village across the river, but soldiers came a few days ago, and they pillaged the village. They took me with them, and I managed to get away, but I can’t go back now, because those savages destroyed the bridge as they left…”
“Climb on my back and we will try to cross it together”, says the monk.
The other monk looks at him stunned, but doesn’t say anything. They put a lot of effort, but they finally managed to cross the river, and the monk lets the woman climb off his back. She thanks them in tears and runs to the village.
So, the monks continue on their way back to the monastery.
The hours went by and the second monk seemed to be annoyed, but he wasn’t saying anything.
“What happened and you are like this?” the older monk asked him.
“Master, I didn’t mean to say anything to you, but I was annoyed that you carried the woman. Did you forget all the oaths we have taken in our order? You know much better than me that it was forbidden to carry the woman, that’s why I did nothing to help her. How could you do that?”
The elder looks at him with love in his look, and says:
“I, my brother, helped the woman return back home, and I left her at the shore across the river. It looks like you haven’t understood the oaths, because inside you, you are still carrying her…”
As Swami Niranjan asked at the end of his speech, “Which one of the 2 monks is the true brahmachary; The one who turned his passion into action, help and contribution and then forgot about it? Or the one who buried it and keeps on carrying it?”
It's important to note that the interpretation and emphasis on brahmacharya can vary across different philosophical and religious traditions. While some may interpret it strictly in terms of celibacy, others may see it as a call for moderation and conscious living. Individuals may choose to incorporate the principles of brahmacharya into their lives based on their own beliefs and personal goals.