Toronto, Ontario
Top Monks
Tapasa brahmacharyena
Samena ca dhamena ca
The above is a quote
from the Srimad Bhagavatam, 6.1.13, and it is in reference to life as a Vedic
monk. Tapasa is defined as austerity.
Brahmachari means celibate practitioner.
Sama refers to control of the
mind. Dhama refers to a harnessing of the senses.
The above qualities
are the natural semblances of an ascetic who accepts voluntary inconveniences
for a higher end. These austerities form
the basis or foundation for a “good man.”
A healthy restraint of the mind and senses is a great way to prepare for
the second phase of one’s life, the ashram
called grhasta or householder
lifestyle.
I raise this topic because
a little extra saffron cloth came to visit us in Toronto today. My support team for the U.S. walk, Hayagriva
and Marshall, came to visit in the morning before our launch to Cuba on
Wednesday. It is a pleasure to have
them. Hayagriva has been giving a series
of talks in the area—talks based on bhakti. Yes, talks on bhakti basics.
By the way, my
favourite brahmacharis, monks, from
the Vedic literatures are Bhisma,
whom we can hear about in the epic Mahabharat,
and Hanuman, who is detailed in the Ramayana. Incidentally they are both warriors, famous
for their fortitude in protecting the vulnerable. They are loyal, faithful and demonstrate the
highest level of servitorship.
Narada Muni is another favourite.
May the Source be with
you!
2 km
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