BRAHMACHARYA - 7. MEANING OF BRAHMACHARYA CELIBACY - Sri Swami Sivanda - The Practice of BRAHMACHARYA Celibacy

Sri Swami Sivananda - BRAHMACHARYA - 7. MEANING OF BRAHMACHARYA: The Gateway to Supreme Bliss and Self-Mastery - HQ Full Book.  

Brahma-Charya is a profound spiritual discipline that is central to the practice of self-restraint and mastery of one’s desires. Derived from the Sanskrit words "Brahma" (meaning the Absolute or the divine) and "Charya" (meaning conduct or behavior), Brahma-Charya literally refers to the conduct that leads to the realization of Brahman, or the ultimate realization of one's own Self. This practice goes beyond the mere abstinence from sexual activity; it encompasses a holistic approach to controlling one's desires, thoughts, and actions, thus purifying the individual at every level of existence. At its core, Brahma-Charya signifies self-restraint, particularly the mastery over the sexual impulse. It involves not just abstaining from physical sexual acts, but also overcoming the mental, emotional, and verbal expressions of lust. The practice requires one to cultivate purity in thought, speech, and action, creating a pathway to spiritual enlightenment and self-realization. This chapter elaborates on the essential aspects of Brahma-Charya, highlighting the importance of controlling the senses and cultivating a life of celibacy and mental purity. 

The Core Principles of Brahma-Charya
Brahma-Charya is not limited to the simple practice of celibacy; it represents a holistic approach to life. The first and foremost aspect of Brahma-Charya is the control of the sexual organs and the abstention from lustful desires in thought, word, and deed. It involves complete abstinence from all forms of sexual indulgence, including masturbation, homosexual acts, and any other perverse sexual behaviors. These acts are believed to cause the depletion of vital life force, resulting in physical and mental deterioration. Hence, the practice of Brahma-Charya safeguards the nervous system and promotes overall health. However, Brahma-Charya is not merely about avoiding sexual acts. It is about achieving mental purity and complete control over all desires. The practitioner must go beyond the physical aspect and train the mind to avoid lustful thoughts, fantasies, and any form of erotic imagination. The discipline extends to all senses—sight, hearing, speech, and touch. One must refrain from indulging in lustful looks, listening to sensual stories, speaking provocatively, or touching others inappropriately. Brahma-Charya, in its complete sense, includes the control of the mind and emotions, ensuring that no lustful thought or desire is entertained. 

The Eight Breaks in Brahma-Charya
The practice of Brahma-Charya is further elaborated by describing eight specific "breaks" or interruptions that hinder the flow of spiritual purity. These breaks must be vigilantly avoided in order to maintain true Brahma-Charya. They include:

1. Darshan: Looking at women with lustful desire.
2. Sparshan: Touching women with impure intent.
3. Keli: Engaging in playful or flirtatious behavior.
4. Reciting or praising the qualities of the opposite sex.
5. Guhya-Bhashan: Speaking privately or secretly with someone of the opposite sex.
6. Intention: Harboring desires or intentions of sexual gratification.
7. Adhyavasaya: Coming closer to the opposite sex with the desire for physical pleasure.
8. Action: Engaging in any form of sexual activity.

The practitioner of Brahma-Charya must avoid these eight forms of indulgence at all costs. Even a fleeting glance, a casual touch, or a private conversation with someone of the opposite sex can lead to a break in Brahma-Charya. It is essential that one cultivates constant awareness and vigilance in every action and thought to maintain purity.

The Role of Mental Brahma-Charya
While physical Brahma-Charya, or the restraint of bodily actions, is critical, mental Brahma-Charya is even more vital. It is not...