BRAHMACHARYA - 13. SOME IDEAL BRAHMACHARINS CELIBATES - Sri Swami Sivanda - The Practice of Celibacy

Sri Swami Sivananda - BRAHMACHARYA - 13. SOME IDEAL BRAHMACHARINS - The Practice of Celibacy - HQ Full Books.

Chapter 13 of Swami Sivananda's The Practice of Brahmacharya presents vivid portrayals of iconic characters who exemplify the ideal of Brahmacharya (celibacy and self-restraint). It highlights the lives of Hanuman, Lakshmana, and Bhishma, whose steadfast adherence to their principles of purity, selflessness, and devotion set benchmarks of virtuous living. These paragons of Brahmacharya inspire readers to adopt higher ideals, discipline, and devotion in their spiritual and practical lives. 

Hanuman: The Mightiest Hero and Devotee
Swami Sivananda begins with Hanuman, a supreme embodiment of Brahmacharya, strength, and devotion. Hanuman, born of Anjana and Pavana, the wind-god, possessed superhuman physical prowess and wisdom. Known by various names such as Vajranga (body as hard as stone), Mahavir (mightiest hero), and Maruti, Hanuman's feats are legendary. His life radiates divine energy, and his exploits continue to inspire devotion and awe. From an early age, Hanuman exhibited miraculous abilities. As a child, he leaped towards the sun, mistaking it for a fruit, showcasing both his boundless strength and innocence. Despite this, a curse rendered him unconscious of his powers until he met Sri Rama. This meeting rekindled his awareness and redirected his immense potential toward Rama's service. Hanuman's life revolved around devotion to Lord Rama. He epitomized selflessness, loyalty, and surrender. As Sri Rama's chosen messenger, warrior, and confidant, Hanuman played a pivotal role in the Ramayana. He crossed the ocean to find Sita, burned Lanka to weaken Ravana's forces, and performed countless superhuman acts during the great war. Carrying an entire mountain to save Lakshmana’s life is among his most celebrated deeds. Swami Sivananda emphasizes that Hanuman's incredible achievements stemmed from his unwavering Brahmacharya. His physical strength, intellectual acumen, and spiritual prowess were unparalleled, making him a beacon of inspiration. Devotees who meditate on Hanuman are said to attain strength, wisdom, and success. Sivananda's invocation of Hanuman's glory concludes with a call to emulate his discipline, purity, and dedication. 

Lakshmana: The Ideal Brother and Servant of Sri Rama
Lakshmana, the son of Dasaratha and Sumitra, was an incarnation of Adisesha and the inseparable companion of Sri Rama. His life is a testament to unwavering devotion, brotherly love, and the practice of Brahmacharya. Lakshmana's relationship with Sri Rama was unique: he regarded his elder brother as his God, Guru, and ultimate purpose in life. Lakshmana's unparalleled loyalty is evident in his voluntary exile alongside Sri Rama and Sita. Despite the hardships of forest life, he remained steadfast, sacrificing royal comforts and personal relationships. His service to Rama was marked by humility and absolute obedience, making his life an exemplary model of selfless devotion. Swami Sivananda recounts how Lakshmana’s adherence to Brahmacharya gave him immense spiritual and physical strength. In the Ramayana, his purity played a crucial role in defeating Meghanada (Indrajit), a powerful warrior who could only be vanquished by someone who had abstained from sensual pleasures for 14 years. This victory underscores the transformative power of disciplined celibacy. Lakshmana's respect for Sita exemplified his moral integrity. He regarded her as a mother figure, never lifting his gaze beyond her feet. This reverence for Sita highlighted his unwavering focus on duty and purity of thought. The mutual love between Rama and Lakshmana is another key theme. When Lakshmana fell unconscious in battle, Rama's grief demonstrated the depth of their bond. Rama's lament—asserting that while he could find another Sita, he could never find another brother like Lakshmana—speaks volumes about their relationship....