Sri Swami Sivananda - BRAHMACHARYA - 13. SOME IDEAL BRAHMACHARINS - The Practice of Celibacy - HQ Full Books.

Chapter 13 of Swami Sivananda's The Practice of Brahmacharya presents vivid portrayals of iconic characters who exemplify the ideal of Brahmacharya (celibacy and self-restraint). It highlights the lives of Hanuman, Lakshmana, and Bhishma, whose steadfast adherence to their principles of purity, selflessness, and devotion set benchmarks of virtuous living. These paragons of Brahmacharya inspire readers to adopt higher ideals, discipline, and devotion in their spiritual and practical lives. 

Hanuman: The Mightiest Hero and Devotee
Swami Sivananda begins with Hanuman, a supreme embodiment of Brahmacharya, strength, and devotion. Hanuman, born of Anjana and Pavana, the wind-god, possessed superhuman physical prowess and wisdom. Known by various names such as Vajranga (body as hard as stone), Mahavir (mightiest hero), and Maruti, Hanuman's feats are legendary. His life radiates divine energy, and his exploits continue to inspire devotion and awe. From an early age, Hanuman exhibited miraculous abilities. As a child, he leaped towards the sun, mistaking it for a fruit, showcasing both his boundless strength and innocence. Despite this, a curse rendered him unconscious of his powers until he met Sri Rama. This meeting rekindled his awareness and redirected his immense potential toward Rama's service. Hanuman's life revolved around devotion to Lord Rama. He epitomized selflessness, loyalty, and surrender. As Sri Rama's chosen messenger, warrior, and confidant, Hanuman played a pivotal role in the Ramayana. He crossed the ocean to find Sita, burned Lanka to weaken Ravana's forces, and performed countless superhuman acts during the great war. Carrying an entire mountain to save Lakshmana’s life is among his most celebrated deeds. Swami Sivananda emphasizes that Hanuman's incredible achievements stemmed from his unwavering Brahmacharya. His physical strength, intellectual acumen, and spiritual prowess were unparalleled, making him a beacon of inspiration. Devotees who meditate on Hanuman are said to attain strength, wisdom, and success. Sivananda's invocation of Hanuman's glory concludes with a call to emulate his discipline, purity, and dedication. 

Lakshmana: The Ideal Brother and Servant of Sri Rama
Lakshmana, the son of Dasaratha and Sumitra, was an incarnation of Adisesha and the inseparable companion of Sri Rama. His life is a testament to unwavering devotion, brotherly love, and the practice of Brahmacharya. Lakshmana's relationship with Sri Rama was unique: he regarded his elder brother as his God, Guru, and ultimate purpose in life. Lakshmana's unparalleled loyalty is evident in his voluntary exile alongside Sri Rama and Sita. Despite the hardships of forest life, he remained steadfast, sacrificing royal comforts and personal relationships. His service to Rama was marked by humility and absolute obedience, making his life an exemplary model of selfless devotion. Swami Sivananda recounts how Lakshmana’s adherence to Brahmacharya gave him immense spiritual and physical strength. In the Ramayana, his purity played a crucial role in defeating Meghanada (Indrajit), a powerful warrior who could only be vanquished by someone who had abstained from sensual pleasures for 14 years. This victory underscores the transformative power of disciplined celibacy. Lakshmana's respect for Sita exemplified his moral integrity. He regarded her as a mother figure, never lifting his gaze beyond her feet. This reverence for Sita highlighted his unwavering focus on duty and purity of thought. The mutual love between Rama and Lakshmana is another key theme. When Lakshmana fell unconscious in battle, Rama's grief demonstrated the depth of their bond. Rama's lament—asserting that while he could find another Sita, he could never find another brother like Lakshmana—speaks volumes about their relationship. Lakshmana’s life exemplifies a synthesis of devotion, discipline, and self-sacrifice. Sivananda concludes by invoking Lakshmana’s blessings for aspirants, urging readers to learn from his example and strive for a life of purity and service. 

Bhishma: The Embodiment of Filial Duty and Sacrifice
Bhishma, born as Devavrata to King Santanu and Ganga Devi, is an epitome of renunciation, self-sacrifice, and adherence to Dharma. His life is steeped in legendary acts of devotion to duty and commitment to Brahmacharya. His vow of lifelong celibacy, taken to ensure his father’s happiness, remains one of the most iconic moments in Indian history. Swami Sivananda recounts how Bhishma’s father, King Santanu, desired to marry Satyavati, the daughter of a fisherman. However, the fisherman demanded that the throne pass to Satyavati’s offspring, a condition Santanu could not accept, as it would disinherit Bhishma. Observing his father’s distress, Bhishma approached the fisherman and made two remarkable vows: renouncing his claim to the throne and committing to lifelong celibacy. These vows earned him the name “Bhishma,” meaning “the Terrible,” signifying his extraordinary resolve. Bhishma’s sacrifice was unparalleled. He relinquished personal happiness, family life, and the continuity of his lineage to fulfill his father’s desires. His vow of celibacy was not merely a personal resolution but a profound act of Dharma, upholding his family’s honor and societal order. Sivananda highlights Bhishma’s exceptional qualities, including his endurance, selflessness, and mastery over his senses. Bhishma’s spiritual stature was evident during the Mahabharata war, where he fought valiantly while adhering to his principles. Even as he lay on a bed of arrows, his detachment from bodily pain and unwavering focus on Dharma inspired awe. His teachings to Yudhishthira on politics, ethics, and spirituality—delivered while he was on his deathbed—continue to be revered as the pinnacle of wisdom. Bhishma’s life illustrates the power of will, self-discipline, and adherence to duty. Swami Sivananda encourages readers to draw inspiration from Bhishma’s fortitude and strive to embody similar virtues in their lives. 

Through the lives of Hanuman, Lakshmana, and Bhishma, Swami Sivananda presents three towering examples of Brahmacharya and selfless living. These ideals are not confined to mythology but serve as practical guides for modern spiritual aspirants. Each figure demonstrates that purity of thought, word, and deed is the foundation of true strength, devotion, and success. Sivananda urges readers to meditate on these illustrious lives and emulate their qualities. By following their examples, one can cultivate discipline, self-restraint, and a life dedicated to higher purposes. The chapter concludes with a celebration of these heroes, whose lives illuminate the path to spiritual growth and divine realization. May the glory of Hanuman, Lakshmana, and Bhishma inspire and guide seekers on their journey toward self-mastery and eternal bliss.

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