Monasticism

Some Hindus choose to live a monastic life ( Sannyāsa) in pursuit of liberation or another form of spiritual perfection. Monastics commit themselves to a life of simplicity, celibacy, detachment from worldly pursuits, and the contemplation of God.   A Hindu monk is called a sanyāsī, sādhu, or swāmi.   A female renunciate is called a sanyāsini . Renunciates receive high respect in Hindu society because their outward renunciation of selfishness and worldliness serves as an inspiration to householders who strive for mental renunciation . Some monastics live in monasteries, while others wander from place to place, trusting in God alone to provide for their needs.   It is considered a highly meritorious act for a householder to provide sādhus with food or other necessaries . Sādhus strive to treat all with respect and compassion, whether a person may be poor or rich, good or wicked, and to be indifferent to praise, blame, pleasure, and pain.

Hingedmind provides the following information on Hinduism as a starting point for better understanding. We encourage you to explore the links section and the various pages on Hinduism. Also, take the time to search on the web for specifics concerning your search.

Hingedmind does not promote or endorse a religion, belief system, or practice. Hingedmind believes no path is a wrong path. Each individual is accountable for his or her path and decisions. Hingedmind provides this information only as a reference and is not responsible for content authenticity or accuracy.