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THE VALUE OF BRAHMACHARYA
Dt. 07-11-1979
The human body is compared to a temple. One should maintain its purity, for the freedom of the soul from its confinement in the impregnable fortress. A healthy mind in a healthy body will enable an aspirant to enjoy bliss. The observance of celibacy keeps the body uncontaminated from impurities, which act as obstacles to lead a peaceful life. The Panchasheelas (five major vows) preached by Bhagawan Mahavira include the observance of celibacy as an indispensable rule for moulding character leading to the attainment of freedom from worldly sufferings.
Acharya Vikramsurishwarji, in a discourse said 'Brahmacharya' meant the soul, entangled in the cobweb of Karma or action, both virtuous and vicious committed in the past and present, constantly striving to disentangle itself from the body and realise supreme bliss. How the soul fell into the deep ravines of worldly entanglements was beyond the understanding of human intellect and it was only to those who have attained the state of omniscience, this hidden secret would be known. The omniscient teachers have provided the means to liberate the embodied soul from the fortress of this body and Brahmacharya was extremely significant in this
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context.
The practice of celibacy would sharpen the intellect; leading it to the untrodden regions of enlightenment and awakening the tormented human spirit. It might not be possible for householders to observe this rigorous vow as detachment from the enchantment of family ties was not easy. But it was imperative until wedlock took place. There was substantial evidence to prove that longevity and relief from the pangs of disease and death were possible for one who practised this. It would also be possible to control the enemies within like anger, greed, rancour and other mental disturbances and to concentrate, in order to realise the higher values. But in modern days because of the enslavement by sophisticated ways of living one might feel it impossible to practise Brahmacharya. The means have been prescribed, the essential requirement being development of awareness not to fall a prey to factors which contribute to the destruction of various faculties. A Brahmachari is an asset to the family, society and the nation.
Undress your worries before you sleep, the way you undress outer clothings before sleeping.
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