BRAHMACHARYA - 24. COMMENTARY ON SWAMI SIVANANDA’S SPIRITUAL INSTRUCTION - Sri Swami Sivanda - The Practice of Celibacy

BRAHMACHARYA - 24. COMMENTARY ON SWAMI SIVANANDA’S SPIRITUAL INSTRUCTION - Sri Swami Sivanda - The Practice of Celibacy - HQ Full Book.

COMMENTARY ON SWAMI SIVANANDA’S 8TH SPIRITUAL INSTRUCTION - By Swami Chidananda.

Swami Chidananda’s commentary on Swami Sivananda’s 8th spiritual instruction is an enlightening exploration of the vital force (Veerya) and its relationship to Brahma-Charya, a core practice in spiritual discipline. In this chapter, the emphasis is placed on the preservation and sublimation of vital energy, which is equated with God in motion—Veerya is not just energy, but the essence of life itself. This energy is not confined to the physical realm but extends to thought, intelligence, and the very nature of existence. Brahma-Charya, the third Niyama in the Yoga Sutras of Maharshi Patanjali, is central to this commentary. The practice is closely tied to the moral and spiritual righteousness of Sanatana Dharma, the eternal religion that emphasizes the role of discipline in the quest for liberation (Moksha). It is not only a concept discussed in the Vedas but also found in other major spiritual traditions such as Buddhism, Christianity, and Judaism, with their respective practices of chastity, celibacy, or renunciation. 

The Role of Brahma-Charya in Spiritual Life
Swami Chidananda highlights Brahma-Charya as a foundational practice for spiritual development. This discipline is deeply embedded in Hindu scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana, the Ramayana, and the Upanishads. The very essence of Brahma-Charya lies in conserving one's vital energy, particularly the sexual energy, and transforming it into higher spiritual power. This practice is not merely about abstinence; it is about preserving and refining a force that can propel the aspirant toward higher consciousness. The vital energy is considered to be the very source of life, and when preserved, it becomes a channel for spiritual awakening and transformation. This principle is not confined to Hinduism but resonates throughout various global spiritual traditions. Swami Chidananda draws parallels to the Christian tradition of chastity, poverty, and obedience—vows taken by monks and nuns dedicated to the spiritual path. These vows, like the practice of Brahma-Charya, serve to purify the individual and prepare them for divine knowledge and self-realization. The concept of chastity or celibacy can be traced back even to the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome, where figures like the Vestal Virgins were believed to embody purity and spiritual insight. 

The Power of Chastity
Swami Chidananda underscores the significance of chastity in spiritual development. He refers to the teachings of Buddha, who, more than 500 years before Christ, stressed the importance of celibacy for those seeking enlightenment. Buddha’s renunciation of worldly pleasures, including family life, illustrates the necessity of self-control in the pursuit of higher wisdom. The practice of Brahma-Charya, as seen through the lives of spiritual giants such as Buddha, Jesus, and the ancient Vedic sages, was viewed as essential for those aiming to transcend the material realm and connect with the divine. The mythological stories of ancient India further emphasize the power of chastity and the transformative effects of celibacy. The tale of Sage Rishya Sringa, who through his vow of celibacy brought rainfall to a drought-stricken kingdom, exemplifies the immense power that can be derived from the conservation of vital energy. Similarly, the story of Sati Anasuya, whose chastity was so pure that even the gods could not tempt her, illustrates the profound spiritual strength that comes from maintaining purity of mind and body. Swami Chidananda also points to the examples of Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, and Laxmana, who observed celibacy during their exile, as models of unwavering devotion and self-control. These examples underscore the idea that...