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Significance of Ascetic practice

Ascetic practice, as understood in various traditions including Buddhism and Jainism, emphasizes rigorous self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures for spiritual growth. It encompasses lifestyles characterized by renunciation, meditation, and strict adherence to moral conduct. Different traditions highlight the necessity of such practices for achieving enlightenment and spiritual purity, often involving hardship and self-denial. Ascetic practices are integral to various spiritual paths, promoting mindfulness, simplicity, and a deeper connection to the divine or ultimate reality.

Synonyms: Austerity, Self-denial, Discipline, Renunciation, Self-restraint, Self-discipline, Abstinence

In Dutch: Ascetische praktijk; In Finnish: Askeettinen k盲yt盲nt枚; In Spanish: Pr谩ctica asc茅tica; In German: Asketische Praxis; In Malay: Amalan zuhud; In Swedish: Asketisk praktik; In French: Pratique asc茅tique

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Ascetic practice'

Buddhism Books

Ascetic practice in Buddhism involves disciplined self-denial and rigorous practices by monks, aimed at overcoming desires and achieving spiritual purity, focusing on simplicity and moral conduct for deeper understanding and enlightenment.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas

(1) The renunciation of worldly pleasures and dedication to meditation and self-discipline in pursuit of spiritual goals.[1] (2) The lifestyle Bahiya adopted, characterized by self-denial and simplicity to cultivate virtue and morality.[2] (3) A disciplined practice focused on spiritual development, which is the subject of the Moneyya-kolahala.[3] (4) Refers to the self-discipline and self-denial involved in the Saraniya Practice.[4] (5) The disciplined lifestyle and meditative practices embodied by Pukkusati as he renounces his kingdom in pursuit of enlightenment.[5]

From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)

(1) Methods employed by monks and practitioners to renounce worldly pleasures in pursuit of spiritual clarity.[6] (2) Spiritual practices that focus on self-discipline and renunciation of worldly pleasures, often conducted in solitude.[7] (3) The rigorous self-discipline and deprivation undertaken by the Bodhisatta to seek enlightenment, eventually leading to the realization of their futility.[8] (4) Lifestyle choices that involve strict self-discipline and abstention from indulgence in order to achieve spiritual goals.[9] (5) Spiritual disciplines practiced by purifying oneself through austerities, common among the religious teachers of the Buddha鈥檚 time.[10]

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) Disciplines aimed at self-improvement and spiritual enlightenment, chosen by the Bodhisatta and later by Gangamala.[11] (2) Various rigorous spiritual disciplines undertaken by Uddalaka and his companions intended to foster self-discipline.[12] (3) Spiritual disciplines or lifestyle choices aimed at achieving higher spiritual states, including fasting and self-denial.[13]

From: Patipada (path of practice)

(1) Ascetic practices are the Dhutanga practices, and the text mentions Venerable Acharn's experience with them when he first went wandering and encountered monkeys.[14] (2) Various disciplines undertaken by Bhikkhus, such as fasting and sitting in samadhi, aimed at purifying the heart and achieving deeper insight.[15] (3) Rigorous spiritual practices undertaken by Bhikkhus, such as fasting or meditation in uncomfortable conditions, to deepen their understanding of Dhamma.[16]

From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)

(1) Disciplines that are followed to purify virtue and enhance concentration.[17] (2) The practices allowed by the Blessed One to clansmen in pursuit of detachment from worldly desires through various forms of self-discipline.[18]

From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara

(1) Lifestyle practices characterized by rigorous self-discipline and abstention from various forms of indulgence, summarized in the Sixth Division of the text.[19] (2) Lifestyle choices involving extreme self-discipline and abstention from indulgence.[20]

From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma

(1) The rigorous self-discipline and denial of physical pleasures that the future Buddha undertook in his quest for enlightenment.[21] (2) The rigorous self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures that Prince Siddartha undertook to gain insight.[22]

From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks鈥� rules)

(1) Disciplines and practices that involve severe self-discipline and abstention from indulgence, which Sudinna engages in after his ordination.[23]

From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada

(1) The //dhutanga// practices that contribute to controlling the senses and attaining spiritual purity.[24]

From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life

(1) Disciplined lifestyles practiced, especially by monks, to cultivate virtue and support the development of meditation.[25]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) Disciplined practices often undertaken by practitioners seeking spiritual development and liberation from desires.[26] (2) Disciplines involving renunciation of worldly pleasures and self-discipline to attain spiritual goals, which the Buddha practiced extensively.[27] (3) Spiritual disciplines and behaviors that an individual must adopt to cultivate virtues and avoid negative actions.[28] (4) A lifestyle focused on simplicity and self-discipline, often involving renunciation of worldly pleasures, aimed at spiritual development.[29] (5) The actions performed by both shravakas and bodhisattvas that include meditation, loving-kindness, and insights into impermanence.[30]

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) Severe self-discipline and abstention from indulgence, which can be misrepresented by demons to appear more virtuous than they truly are.[31] (2) Rigorous spiritual disciplines and practices aimed at self-control that Upali observed in the Buddha.[32] (3) The rigorous self-discipline and denial of physical needs exhibited by some externalist sects, viewed as unproductive and misguided by the Buddha.[33]

From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines

(1) Spiritual disciplines and practices that emphasize self-denial and renunciation of worldly pleasures in pursuit of enlightenment.[34]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: Bodhinyana

(1) Disciplinary methods and rules followed by monks that aim to promote mindfulness, simplicity, and moral conduct.[35] (2) A lifestyle characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence, typically for religious reasons.[36]

From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)

(1) The spiritual lifestyle that Tinasantharadayaka adopted, relying on a lake near Himavanta.[37] (2) Disciplined practices adopted by monks to overcome desires and focus on spiritual growth.[38]

From: The Great Chariot

(1) Disciplined practices aimed at spiritual growth and understanding, often involving self-denial or hardship.[39]

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) Rigorous spiritual exercises that characterized the Dharmasvamin's dedication to achieving enlightenment.[40] (2) Practices that involve self-discipline and abstention from various worldly pleasures for spiritual growth.[41] (3) Disciplines pursued by sangs rgyas ras pa to attain spiritual development and purity.[42] (4) A lifestyle characterized by strict self-discipline and abstention from indulgence, which the individual adhered to throughout their life.[43]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha鈥檚 words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Ascetic practice'

Hinduism Books

Ascetic practice in Hinduism encompasses strict self-discipline, meditation, and renunciation aimed at spiritual realization. It involves rigorous lifestyles and rituals by ascetics, emphasizing devotion and self-denial to achieve higher states of consciousness and liberation.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Severely disciplined lifestyle choices made to renounce worldly pleasures in pursuit of spiritual purity.[44] (2) Severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence, typically undertaken to achieve spiritual goals.[45] (3) Spiritual disciplines involving self-denial and penance aimed at achieving a higher spiritual state.[46] (4) The disciplined lifestyle and spiritual practices undertaken by Brahmanas and Munis, often involving a strict diet.[47] (5) Spiritual exercises or disciplines characterized by rigorous self-denial and concentration on spiritual goals.[48]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) Refers to Sita's spiritual and disciplined lifestyle leading to her reaching the Nagas.[49] (2) The rigorous spiritual disciplines undertaken by Anasuya that enabled her to produce food for the sages during a time of drought.[50] (3) Spiritual practices undertaken by Gautama that are obstructed by Indra, emphasizing the importance of discipline in spiritual growth.[51] (4) Spiritual disciplines characterized by austerity that lead to purification and enlightenment, associated with sages like Sharabhanga.[52] (5) A lifestyle characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from indulgence, adopted by the young girl.[53]

From: Markandeya Purana

(1) The rigorous austerities practiced by King Svarashtra, including enduring extreme temperatures and abstaining from food.[54] (2) Strict self-discipline and abstention from indulgence in worldly pleasures aimed at spiritual advancement.[55] (3) Spiritual practices that involve self-discipline, renunciation, and leading a life focused on achieving higher states of consciousness.[56] (4) Disciplines involving severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence, often to achieve spiritual insight.[57] (5) Spiritual practices aimed at self-denial and deep meditation, typically associated with renouncing worldly pleasures.[58]

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) The disciplines and austerities previously valued in spiritual life that lose significance during the Kali age.[59] (2) The rigorous lifestyle and practices Dhruva undertakes to achieve spiritual goals and gain the favor of Vishnu.[60] (3) Intense spiritual disciplines embraced by Yajnawalkya, highlighting the importance of dedication and effort in the pursuit of knowledge.[61]

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) Disciplines aimed at spiritual development, shown by King Ashvapati in his devotion to Savitri.[62]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) Lifestyle choices focused on spiritual discipline, often involving fasting, meditation, and other forms of self-denial.[63]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) Disciplines that include austerities, meditation, and Vedic study aimed at reaching spiritual goals.[64]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) The lifestyle adopted by Hemaprabha, focusing on renunciation and spiritual discipline in the forest.[65] (2) Referring to the self-disciplined and often self-denying behaviors of the rogue Shiva, emphasizing the commitment required for thieving.[66] (3) Spiritual practices involving self-discipline and renunciation, which Mrigankadatta undertakes to gain Ganesha's favor.[67] (4) A spiritual discipline undertaken by characters seeking redemption and strength, emphasizing the importance of inner strength.[68] (5) Spiritual exercises undertaken by characters like Bhunandana, suggesting a path to enlightenment and fulfillment of desires.[69]

From: Harsha-charita

(1) The rigorous self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures followed by certain individuals, like sage Durvasas, highlighting the tension between piety and anger.[70]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or 鈥榚pic poetry鈥� and natya, or 鈥榙ramatic poetry鈥�.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra

(1) Various disciplines followed by an ascetic, including silence, controlled breathing, fasting, and meditation focused on the Veda.[71] (2) Lifestyle choices made by individuals, such as hermits and ascetics, that align with abstinence and spiritual discipline.[72]

From: Gautama Dharmasutra

(1) The lifestyle and behaviors, such as the abstention from possessions and desires, that a person in the ascetic order must adhere to.[73]

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Lifestyle choices characterized by rigorous self-discipline and abstention from sensual pleasures, often linked to spirituality.[74]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) The various forms of spiritual austerity and devotion that lead to the divine connection, exemplified through Prahlada's life.[75]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Rigorous self-discipline and abstention from indulgence in bodily pleasures followed by individuals like brahmacaris.[76]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (鈥榯en avatars of Vishnu鈥�).

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja鈥檚 Rajamartanda)

(1) Ritualistic acts undertaken primarily to achieve spiritual development and self-discipline, prevalent in many Eastern philosophies.[77]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Pancaratra (worship of N膩r膩ya峁嘺):
Pancaratra Books

From: Parama Samhita (English translation)

(1) Rituals and lifestyles that involve renouncing physical pleasures and comforts in pursuit of spiritual goals.[78]

Pancaratra represents a tradition of Hinduism where Narayana is revered and worshipped. Closeley related to Vaishnavism, the Pancaratra literature includes various Agamas and tantras incorporating many Vaishnava philosophies.

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Kautilya Arthashastra

(1) Spiritual or religious actions that are exploited by spies to collect money from credulous persons.[79]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

Jain concept of 'Ascetic practice'

Jainism Books

Ascetic practice in Jainism emphasizes rigorous self-discipline, renunciation, and meditation, aiming for spiritual advancement and emancipation from worldly pleasures. It involves strict lifestyle choices and physical disciplines undertaken by ascetics to achieve higher consciousness and enlightenment.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) Spiritual and physical disciplines carried out by sages and ascetics focused on self-restraint and meditation.[80] (2) Disciplined practices aimed at spiritual advancement, often involving self-restraint and denial of worldly pleasures.[81] (3) Spiritual disciplines or lifestyle choices often involving renunciation, aimed at attaining higher states of consciousness and ultimately emancipation.[82] (4) Severe religious practices undertaken by characters like Anudvara and the Mleccha to attain spiritual goals.[83] (5) Spiritual or religious practices involving self-discipline, renunciation, and meditation.[84]

From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)

(1) Spiritual discipline and practices undertaken by ascetics to cultivate mental and emotional stability, facilitating the reduction of bondage causes.[85] (2) Ascetic practices refer to rigorous self-discipline and abstaining from indulgence, which are typically associated with the homeless ascetic鈥揳nagari.[86] (3) Ascetic practices, such as pulling out hair or fasting, may cause suffering to the practitioners and others.[87] (4) Spiritual discipline involving strict self-control and abstinence from worldly pleasures in pursuit of higher ethical living.[88] (5) Disciplines and observances undertaken by ascetics aimed at purifying the mind and transcending material existence.[89]

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) Disciplined practices undertaken by monks or spiritual seekers to attain greater self-control and enlightenment.[90] (2) The rigorous self-discipline and meditation that monks and certain kings undertake to achieve spiritual purity and enlightenment.[91]

From: Acaranga-sutra

(1) Disciplines adopted by monks and mendicants involving severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence.[92]

From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)

(1) Lifestyle choices that involve strict self-discipline and abstinence from indulgence, aimed at spiritual improvement.[93]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, 鈥榮elf-reliance鈥�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Ascetic practice in local and regional sources

History Books

Ascetic practice encompasses a disciplined lifestyle marked by self-denial and abstention from indulgence, aimed at achieving spiritual goals. It also connects to medical traditions, showcasing how asceticism influences both spiritual and medical knowledge.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) These practices are related to medical knowledge, and the traditions of itinerant ascetics were already well versed in medical arts and remedies.[94] (2) This refers to a lifestyle characterized by rigorous self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures, which the article explores its relationship to the birth of medical conceptions in Buddhism.[95] (3) Ascetic practice generates the superpower of reaching whatever one wants, for example, one goes wherever one wants to go, in any form one desires, and the like, as a means to achieve superpowers.[96] (4) These are the actions and disciplines undertaken to achieve spiritual goals, often involving self-denial and hardship, such as various fasts, periods of solitude, and bodily mortifications.[97]

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A lifestyle characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence, often for spiritual reasons.[98] (2) Rigorous self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures in pursuit of spiritual goals.[99]

From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England

(1) The practices of self-discipline and renunciation of worldly pleasures adhered to by Owini and the brethren in the monastery.[100]

Plural form: Ascetic practices.