Celibacy and Spirituality

[Guest guest]

Dear List

 

As expected, the topic 'celibacy and spirituality' is generating a huge

amount of email. The reason why this topic is so emotive is because

we are trying to come to terms with the very force that is directly and

indirectly responsible for the process of evolution. When this process

needed to quicken its pace it shifted from asexual to sexual reproduction.

 

There are a few other ideas to explore.

 

(a) Swami Vivekananda has clearly said in his work Raja Yoga that

without practising celibacy the attempt at Raja yoga can lead to

insanity. This statement cannot be taken lightly. Here is a master of

Rajayoga insisting on 'celibacy.' Why would he insist on this requirement

if it is not so crucial?

 

(b) Buddhism and Sikhism have taken opposite stand on this issue.

Buddha promoted 'celibate lifestyle' to a large portion of society.

History shows that this backfired. Most people are incapable of such severe

discipline so the practise quickly degenerated and damaged the society.

On the other hand the Sikh Gurus discouraged celibate lifestyle, resulting

in (I risk saying) hardly any or no later day Sikh claiming first hand

spiritual experience. This would suggest that if celibacy is imposed it

can be seriously counter-productive. At the same time if it is given up

it may mean spirituality becoming a matter of belief and not experience.

Take your pick : )

 

I request our members to continue this discussion in a concise and focused

manner.

 

jay