Brahamacari ashram is better than sannyasa & grhastha ashramas

[Guest guest]

Srila Prabhupada wrote that brahmacari and sannyasa life are in essence the

same and that it was therefore not necessary for every brahmacari to take

sannyasa.

 

Indeed, in many ways the brahmacari-asrama is the best for spiritual

advancement and developing Vaisnava qualities. It facilitates the essential

quality of humility, for the brahmacari has neither the possessions of a

grhastha or the status of a sannyasi, both of which can foster false pride.

Brahmacari life is generally considerably more simple and austere than that of

sannyasis in the modern day. Brahmacaris can remain less entangled than

sannyasis in the social affairs of householders, who prefer to go to sannyasis

for blessings and advice, and to call them to their homes and feed them. The

brahmacari-asrama is also intrinsically the best for nurturing surrender to

guru.

 

Therefore, more important than formally taking sannyasa is the firm decision to

stay brahmacari, with determination never to engage in sex life again. With

such a conviction, a brahmacari practices Krsna consciousness with deep faith

and commitment. If one wants to stay brahmacari, a whimsical approach will not

do. What is required is firm, steady service, regular, potent sadhana, and a

deep vision of Krsna consciousness acquired from intensive study of Srila

Prabhupada's books.

 

>From BIKC by HH Bhakti Vikasa Swami