Brahmachari is a term that is commonly used in Hinduism and Buddhism. This word has a deep meaning that is often misunderstood by people who are not familiar with the culture and traditions of these religions. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of brahmachari, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Brahmachari is a Sanskrit word that is composed of two words: “brahma” which means “ultimate reality” and “charya” which means “to follow”. Therefore, the literal meaning of brahmachari is “one who follows the path of ultimate reality”.
In Hinduism, brahmachari refers to a person who has taken a vow to live a celibate life and dedicate themselves to the study and practice of the Vedas. In Buddhism, brahmachari refers to a person who has taken a vow to live a simple and austere life, following the Eightfold Path and avoiding all forms of sensual pleasure.
Origin
The concept of brahmachari originated in ancient India, where it was considered an essential part of the spiritual path. The earliest references to brahmachari can be found in the Vedas, which are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. The term was later adopted by Buddhism, where it became an important aspect of monastic life.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, brahmachari is defined as “a Hindu ascetic who has taken a vow of celibacy and is devoted to spiritual pursuits”. In the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it is defined as “a Hindu religious student who lives with a teacher and studies the Vedas”.
Associations
Brahmachari is associated with the concepts of celibacy, self-discipline, and spiritual growth. It is often seen as a path to enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. In Hinduism, brahmachari is one of the four stages of life, known as ashramas, which a person is expected to follow.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of brahmachari include ascetic, celibate, monk, and sage.
Antonyms
Antonyms of brahmachari include hedonist, sensualist, and libertine.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as brahmachari include Brahman, which refers to the ultimate reality or God in Hinduism, and Brahma, which is one of the three main gods in Hinduism.
Example Sentences
- The young man decided to become a brahmachari and dedicate himself to the study of the Vedas.
- The Buddhist monk lived a simple life as a brahmachari, following the Eightfold Path and avoiding all forms of sensual pleasure.
- According to Hindu tradition, a brahmachari should remain celibate until they complete their studies and enter the next stage of life.