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## Fourth Study: Pratikraman
[57 Nine Brahmacharya Secrets -
- Brahmacharya is the strength of the body. It is the supreme wealth of life. It is the subduing of the mind. It is the upliftment of the soul. It is the best among vows. It is the foundation of sadhana and the basis of Dharma worship. It is the means of success and the source of peace. It is the ocean of forgiveness and the storehouse of humility. The sixth study of the Sutra Kritanga Sutra states - 'Tavesu Va Uttama Bhamchearam' meaning Brahmacharya is the best among austerities. The meaning of Brahmacharya -
Jivo Bhamho Jivammi Chev Chariya, Havij Ja Jadino? Tam Janam Bhamchearam, Vimuk Pardehatittiss.
- Bhagavati Aradhana 81 meaning - Brahma means the soul, to dwell in the soul is Brahmacharya.
Brahmacharya is the foundation of Dharma sadhana. Through its practice, the path to self-salvation is paved. The Prashnavyakaran Sutra states - Brahmacharya is the embankment of the lotus pond of Dharma. It is the storehouse of qualities like compassion, forgiveness, etc. and the basis of the branches of Dharma. Devotees and kings worship the Brahmachari. It is the auspicious path of the world.
Dev-Danav-Gandhavva Jakkha-Rakkhas-Kinnara. Bhamhyarim Namsanti Dukkaram Je Karanti Te.
- Uttaraadhyayanasutra meaning - Even gods like Dev, Danav, Gandharva, Yaksha, Rakshasa, and Kinnara bow down to the Brahmachari who practices the difficult Brahmacharya.
The American sage 'Thoro' said - "Brahmacharya is the flower of the tree of life and its beautiful fruits are many, including brilliance, purity, courage, etc." In the words of Vyasa - "Brahmacharya is nectar." The person who enjoys the nectar of Brahmacharya becomes immortal forever. Brahmacharya is the great sadhana of life.
If, while practicing sadhana, one inadvertently transgresses the nine Brahmacharya secrets, then pratikraman is performed through this sutra.
Nine secrets have been established in the scriptures to keep Brahmacharya well protected. In short, their meaning is as follows -