Ease of Brahmacharya
Question
Hi, I know the question may sound stupid.
But is brahmacharya easy for Hindus and yogis? It seems they have more facility to practice it than other people like Westerners or others. In other religions like monastic Christianity for example the saints like St Anthony did have many temptation related to lust and women and many others too, but there is no such stories of temptations with yogis as if brahmacharya was natural to them. Is this cultural or individual?
Answer
1. The ease or difficulty in the practice of Brahmacharya has no connection with the race. It is dependent on the evolutionary level of the individual
2. It must be remembered that all saints and sages were at one time one among the masses and therefore as much under the grip of ignorance as anybody else. They too underwent much torment under the grip of delusion.
3. However, they had one marked quality which would eventually set them apart and take them towards realizing their true identity. 'Perseverance' and 'commitment' at uninterrupted Sadhana (practice) was the secret. They made it a point never to give up on the practice despite obstacles and downfalls.
They performed correct 'Vichara' (enquiry) into the cause behind their setbacks and carefully strove not to repeat those mistakes. Such effort ultimately helped discern the truth which itself is God's grace. This helped them reach the goal.
All Jiva-s (individuals) go through numerous challenges in the practice. Those who appear advanced will have got done with the same in previous existences with hard work. On the whole, he who strives relentlessly reaches the goal.
ॐ तत् सत्
(That Supreme being is the absolute truth)