Bramhacharya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text on "Bramhacharya" (Brahmacharya), authored by Bhanvarsinh Pavar:

The Essence of Brahmacharya: Beyond Mere Celibacy

The text, titled "Bramhacharya" by Bhanvarsinh Pavar, emphasizes that the term "Brahmacharya" has a much broader and deeper meaning than commonly understood. While often reduced to simple abstinence or control of sensual desires, the author argues that this is an injustice to the true breadth of the concept.

Historical and Spiritual Significance:

Historically, Brahmacharya was associated with ascetics, sages, and saints who achieved spiritual enlightenment through intense focus, meditation with fixed gaze, and deep devotion to God. This profound connection allowed them to perceive the reflection of the divine within their souls, ultimately leading to "Bramhalin" (merging with the divine). The text posits that the stability of the mind achieved through Brahmacharya brings one closer to God, truth, and knowledge.

Brahmacharya in Daily Life:

The author asserts that Brahmacharya can and should be practiced in every aspect of life:

• Conduct, Thoughts, and Actions: It encompasses honesty in one's profession, dedication to studies, integrity in service (employment), sincerity in prayer, and the conscientious fulfillment of both subtle and gross responsibilities.
• Qualities of a Brahmachari: To truly embody Brahmacharya, one must cultivate renunciation, detachment, strong resolve, courage, patience, benevolence, and compassion for the needy. This allows for the courage to adopt life-altering vows, such as the "Bheeshma Pratigya" (Vow of Bheeshma).

The Perils of Misinterpreted Vows and Division:

The text uses the example of Bheeshma Pitamah's vow, highlighting how being bound by a commitment, even with good intentions, can lead to immense suffering and destruction. Bheeshma's inability to intervene against injustice, unrighteousness, ambition, and paternal attachment, despite his vows, ultimately contributed to the Mahabharata war. This conflict, characterized by brother fighting brother, devastated not only Hastinapur but an entire era, leading to the demise of great warriors like Karna, Arjuna, Duryodhana, and Abhimanyu. The author laments the lost potential of these warriors had the war been averted.

The Ideal of a Unified India and the Contrast with Present Reality:

The text draws a connection between adhering to the "commandments of Brahma" and the present state of affairs. If ancient India, which called itself "Jagatguru" (World Teacher), had truly understood and lived by Brahmacharya, its future and global standing would have been different. The author laments that India had to be stained with the blood of its own sons and that sentiments of division, communalism, and superiority would not have taken root. The destructive forces of fear, sin, and betrayal, which annihilate collective strength, are highlighted as hindrances to this ideal.

The Inheritance of the Past and the Misunderstanding of Wealth:

The text observes that the past bequeaths something to the present, but unfortunately, the present generation has inherited hatred, deception, bitter communal discrimination, and self-serving ambition from the past. This is seen as a tragic twist of fate or weakness, where wealth ("artha") has been misunderstood and accepted as misfortune ("anartha"). The narrow interpretation of Brahmacharya as merely sexual restraint is contrasted with its true, expansive meaning.

The True Meaning of Brahmacharya: Universal Consciousness:

The ultimate aim of Brahmacharya, as presented in Jainism, is to perceive "Brahma" (the divine, the universal consciousness) in all aspects of life – thought, word, deed, behavior, and speech. It involves experiencing and recognizing the presence of Brahma in all living beings and the entire universe, understanding the sentiment of "Siyaram may sab jag jani" (seeing Lord Rama in everyone). When one's mindset, thought process, and knowledge reach this conclusion, they will truly recognize themselves, the world, and the Supreme Being.

The Brahmachari as a Servant of Humanity:

A true Brahmachari, understanding the essence of Brahma, lives according to their thoughts and actions, dedicating themselves to the service of society, religion, nation, and humanity. They envision a "world family" and a "Ram Rajya" (ideal kingdom).

The Role of Discipline and the Dangers of Pride:

The text briefly touches upon the inevitability of disease in the human body and the importance of disciplined living, adherence to dietary rules, restraint over the tongue, and virtuous conduct. It warns that those who do not follow such disciplined lifestyles are constantly pursued by the "demon of disease." Finally, it cautions that while pride in one's best possessions is natural, it can also be a cause of complete destruction.