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directly related to this internal purification and not merely to the bodily attributes. Having acquired this wisdom, the wise sadhaka practises austerity in the real enlightened way.
Que. 7: What is the importance of austerity? Ans. : Four types of disciplines have been described as the cause of salvation by the ancient spiritual preceptors. These are : Right faith, Right knowledge, Right conduct and Right austerity. It is by practising all these four together that emancipation can be attained and the transmigration put to an end. Thus, austerity is one of the important components of sadhana for attaining salvation.
Que. 8: What type of austerilty leads to beatitude of the soul?
Ans.
: Austerity should be practised neither with wanton behaviour nor with ego, nor in accordance with people's saying. It should be performed purely with the intention of one's own purification.
In modern times, austerity is being practised as per people's verdict, or just traditionally or for name and fame or with a view to keeping some householders pleased. All these activities, including spirtitual discourses, are not usually performed with noble view; hence are not conducive to the beatitude, but are seen serving the reverse effect..
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