Bramhacharya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bramhacharya" by Acharya Jawahar, based on the provided PDF pages:

Book Title: Bramhacharya (Celibacy/Chastity) Author: Acharya Jawahar Publisher: Z_Jain_Vidyalay_Granth_012030.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/211474/1

This text, written by Acharya Jawahar, delves into the profound significance and multifaceted nature of Brahmacharya (celibacy or chastity) within the Jain tradition. The author emphasizes that Brahmacharya is not merely a physical abstinence but a holistic discipline encompassing mind, speech, and action, leading to immense spiritual and worldly benefits.

Key Themes and Concepts:

• The Power of Akhund Brahmacharya (Uninterrupted Celibacy): The text begins by defining an akhund Brahmachari as someone who has achieved unbroken celibacy. Such individuals are described as exceptionally rare and possessing extraordinary strength, capable of influencing the entire universe. They have complete control over their senses and mind, remaining unaffected by temptations.

• The Broad Meaning of Brahmacharya: The author clarifies that Brahmacharya is often misunderstood as simply conserving semen. However, its true meaning is much wider, encompassing the control of all senses and the mind, preventing them from engaging in worldly pleasures. While semen preservation is considered incomplete Brahmacharya, the complete form involves restraining all senses and the mind from sensual pursuits.

• Semen as the Essence of Life: The text highlights the vital importance of semen, stating that the entire body is built upon it. Its misuse (through indulgence) is identified as the root cause of many diseases, sorrows, and poverty in the world. Semen is described as a repository of immense power.

• Brahmacharya as the Foundation of Faith: A lack of Brahmacharya is cited as a reason for the instability of faith in the Divine. Establishing Brahmacharya in life naturally leads to deep and lasting devotion to God.

• Historical Significance of Brahmacharya: The text traces the concept of Brahmacharya back to ancient Indian civilization, mentioning its presence in ancient texts like the Acharanga Sutra and the Rigveda. Lord Rishabhdev also accorded a high place to Brahmacharya in religion.

• The Power of Brahmacharya in Practice (Examples): The text uses the example of Hanumanji, whose immense strength is attributed to the continuous Brahmacharya practice of his mother, Anjana, and father, Pawanji, for twelve years. This practice yielded a gift to the world that remains unparalleled.

• The Two Pillars of Brahmacharya:

  1. Thought and Intention (Bhavana): The first rule of Brahmacharya is the cultivation of pure thoughts and intentions. Just as thoughts influence dreams, the thoughts of parents shape their children. Parents should cultivate the intention of raising strong, world-benefiting children through Brahmacharya.
  2. Dietary Discipline (Bhojan Vivek): The second rule emphasizes conscious and regulated eating. Brahmacharis must exercise discretion in their food choices, avoiding what is Rajasic and Tamasic. Indulgence in taste leads to enslavement of the tongue, hindering spiritual progress.

• Causes of Semen Loss and Its Prevention: The text identifies several factors that lead to the loss of vital energy (semen):

  • Sharing a bed with the opposite sex.
  • Inactivity and idleness.
  • Staying up late, sleeping past sunrise.
  • Reading and viewing obscene material (literature and images).
  • Watching plays and movies.
  • Misconception that semen preservation leads to nocturnal emissions; the real cause needs to be addressed.

• The Spiritual and Physical Benefits of Brahmacharya:

  • Physical Health: Brahmacharya leads to robust health, preventing diseases and aging. It is described as a potent medicine against death, illness, and old age.
  • Spiritual Strength: It enhances mental fortitude, courage, and spiritual power.
  • Virtue and Character: It is the foundation for virtues like compassion, forgiveness, and all aspects of righteous conduct.
  • Knowledge and Wisdom: The text states that knowledge and learning are attained through Brahmacharya.
  • Success in Life: It contributes to longevity, beauty, strength, determination, and fame.
  • Spiritual Attainment: Ultimately, Brahmacharya is the path to liberation (moksha) and the highest spiritual realization.

• The Three Types of Brahmacharya:

  1. Mental Brahmacharya (Mansik): Not harboring impure thoughts or desires in the mind.
  2. Vocal Brahmacharya (Vachik): Not speaking impure or sensual words.
  3. Physical Brahmacharya (Kayik): Not engaging in physical acts of lust. Complete Brahmacharya involves the perfect practice of all three.

• Addressing Misconceptions: The text refutes the idea that Brahmacharya causes illness, stating the opposite is true – it wards off disease. It also dismisses the notion that controlling sensual desires is impossible, urging individuals to remove such limiting beliefs from their minds.

• Brahmacharya as the Ultimate Tapas (Austerity): Brahmacharya is considered the highest form of austerity in Jainism, superior to all other practices, akin to Mount Himalaya among mountains. It is the root of all vows, self-discipline, knowledge, faith, and conduct.

• Brahmacharya as the Means to Worldly and Otherworldly Goals: The text emphasizes that Brahmacharya is essential for achieving worldly goals like education, wealth, and reputation, as it ensures a healthy and strong body. More importantly, it is the primary means to attain heavenly realms and ultimate liberation (moksha).

In essence, Acharya Jawahar's "Brahmacharya" is a comprehensive guide that elevates the concept of celibacy beyond mere physical abstinence to a holistic discipline of mind, speech, and body, essential for spiritual growth, physical well-being, and the attainment of ultimate liberation.