Celibacy and Spiritual Enlightenment

Post by PSO; Admin
Comments of Reviewers

GS

Going against the nature? Tantrics believe attainment of spirituality through satisfying sex. Choose whichever doctrines suits you best. What’s nuns and priests indulge in is an open secret!

("प्रकृति के खिलाफ जाना? तांत्रिक मानते हैं कि संतोषजनक यौन संबंधों के माध्यम से आध्यात्मिकता प्राप्त होती है। जो भी सिद्धांत आपको सबसे अच्छा लगे, उसे चुनें। ननों और पादरियों के बारे में क्या छिपा है, यह एक खुला रहस्य है!")

PSO

It’s important to clarify that Tantrics do not solely advocate for attaining spirituality through sex. Tantric philosophy is much broader, focusing on the union of opposites—body and spirit, masculine and feminine energies. Sex in Tantra is symbolic and a small part of a much larger spiritual journey that emphasizes energy, consciousness, and transcendence. The goal is not indulgence but to use sexual energy as a meditative tool, transforming it into a higher state of awareness. Osho’s teachings align more with this concept—not indulgence but transformation. He encouraged people to understand their natural desires, experience them consciously, and move beyond them into a state of superconsciousness. Thus, his philosophy is very much in harmony with nature and not a rejection of it.

GS

Going against the nature? Tantrics believe attainment of spirituality through satisfying sex. Choose whichever doctrines suits you best. What’s nuns and priests indulge in is an open secret!

("प्रकृति के खिलाफ जाना? तांत्रिक मानते हैं कि संतोषजनक यौन संबंधों के माध्यम से आध्यात्मिकता प्राप्त होती है। जो भी सिद्धांत आपको सबसे अच्छा लगे, उसे चुनें। ननों और पादरियों के बारे में क्या छिपा है, यह एक खुला रहस्य है!")

PSO

It’s important to clarify that Tantrics do not solely advocate for attaining spirituality through sex. Tantric philosophy is much broader, focusing on the union of opposites—body and spirit, masculine and feminine energies. Sex in Tantra is symbolic and a small part of a much larger spiritual journey that emphasizes energy, consciousness, and transcendence. The goal is not indulgence but to use sexual energy as a meditative tool, transforming it into a higher state of awareness. Osho’s teachings align more with this concept—not indulgence but transformation. He encouraged people to understand their natural desires, experience them consciously, and move beyond them into a state of superconsciousness. Thus, his philosophy is very much in harmony with nature and not a rejection of it.

GS-Part of initial comment

What’s nuns and priests indulge in is an open secret

PSO

It is important to avoid making generalizations about any group or religion, as every faith has individuals who strive to uphold its teachings with integrity. While unfortunate incidents involving religious figures do occur, these are exceptions and not reflective of the entire community. Osho’s philosophy focuses on exploring human nature and consciousness in a non-judgmental manner. Therefore, rather than making assumptions about others, it’s better to engage in a thoughtful discussion on how different spiritual traditions view sexuality, awareness, and transcendence. Every individual can choose the path that resonates with their spiritual journey.

GS-Again:1

thank you, tantric philosophy is different from OSHO’s I believe. You may have a better understanding, I concede!

PSO

"Essentially, all married people are at the foundational stage of Tantra, as they engage in sex, which is a natural part of human life. Tantra emphasizes the transformation of this basic act into a conscious, spiritual experience, elevating it to a path of enlightenment." This refined explanation highlights the link between Tantra and the conscious use of sexual energy for spiritual growth.

GS-Again:2

Human sex is mystic. Ancient Greeks indulged in aphrodisiacs. Unlike, animals, human sex cycle is always in a motion mode barring 4 days in 28 days cycle. Enjoyment overtook the procreation, the underlying motive. Then there is porn, underage sex, variety of postures, different timing the list is endless. Spirituality is an added spice. Enjoyment & procreation, in a healthy proportion, I think is the ideal situation!

PSO

This response reflects a misunderstanding of Osho's philosophy. Osho’s concept of "Sex to Superconsciousness" emphasizes transcending physical desires through awareness, not indulging in them for spiritual attainment. It isn’t about following natural instincts blindly but using them as a tool to achieve higher consciousness through mindfulness and meditation.

JK

Please also tell what's Sikhism view on this matter?

HPS

Jatinder Arora ji Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji Said One can take God's name while leading a family life.This is the message from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji 🙏

PSO

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji emphasized that spiritual progress is achievable while leading a family life, stressing the importance of integrating devotion with daily responsibilities. Osho’s philosophy aligns with this, asserting that spiritual awakening can be realized through conscious engagement with life’s natural experiences, including sexuality, rather than renouncing them. Both advocate a balanced, mindful existence over extreme renunciation.

SPS

ਬਾਣੀ ਵਿੱਚ ਦਰਜ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਕਾਮ ਕ੍ਰੋਧ ਕਾਇਆ ਕੋ ਗਾਲੇ।। ਜਿਉ ਕੰਚਨ ਸੁਹਾਗਾ ਢਾਲੇ ।।

PSO

The verse "ਕਾਮ ਕ੍ਰੋਧ ਕਾਇਆ ਕੋ ਗਾਲੇ।। ਜਿਉ ਕੰਚਨ ਸੁਹਾਗਾ ਢਾਲੇ।" from Gurbani means that lust (ਕਾਮ) and anger (ਕ੍ਰੋਧ) consume the body, just as borax melts gold. It highlights the destructive nature of these emotions but does not directly forbid sex. Instead, it teaches self-control over desires. The message is to transcend excessive lust and anger, not necessarily to abstain from sex, but to manage these emotions to live a spiritually balanced life. In relation to Osho’s philosophy, both emphasize managing natural desires rather than suppressing them completely.

SPS-Again

Great gurus say " O Lust! You consign people to hell and to the cycle of transmigration, You cheat all minds, influence the three worlds and destroy all contemplation and culture; Your pleasure is momentary, you make one fickle and poor and punish the high and the low; I have overcome your fear by associating with saintly persons and taking shelter with God!” So this is the lust that has been resulting in devastating effects on society .. heinous crimes are reported day in and day out due to this instinct ! Why should it be supported in a civilized society ?? Of course this is urgently needed for the reproduction process but beyond it it is a curse !!

PSO

The quote you're referring to appears to convey the essence of teachings commonly found in various religious and spiritual traditions, particularly in Sikhism, where lust (kama) is seen as one of the five major vices. It echoes the teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, where great spiritual leaders and gurus have often warned against the destructive power of lust, greed, and attachment. The essence of the quote aligns with teachings in Sikhism, Hinduism, and other traditions that emphasize transcending worldly desires through association with saintly persons and seeking shelter in the Divine. Osho’s interpretation of sex and lust is indeed different from traditional religious views. He differentiates sex as a natural, biological function that, when transcended with awareness, can lead to higher consciousness, while lust is seen as an uncontrolled, unconscious drive that leads to negative consequences. Osho's philosophy suggests that by being fully conscious and meditative during sexual experiences, one can use the energy to reach a state of superconsciousness. "ਕਾਮ ਕ੍ਰੋਧ ਕਾਇਆ ਕੋ ਗਾਲੇ।। ਜਿਉ ਕੰਚਨ ਸੁਹਾਗਾ ਢਾਲੇ ।।" translates to a warning that lust and anger burn away the body, just as fire melts gold. These teachings emphasize celibacy or control over desires to prevent spiritual decay. Osho’s philosophy doesn't contradict this entirely but instead offers a nuanced view. He doesn't deny the dangers of lust but provides a path where sex, when transformed through mindfulness, can lead to enlightenment, rather than being a source of destruction. Traditional interpretations focus on strict control or renunciation, whereas Osho advocates transcending the instinct, not repressing it.

MKM

Guru Nanak Dev Ji philosophy support family system for life

PSO

Guru Nanak Dev Ji emphasized living a balanced, family-oriented life while maintaining spiritual devotion. His philosophy encourages householders to seek God while fulfilling worldly duties. Osho similarly supports engaging in life’s natural experiences, including relationships, while transcending them through awareness and spirituality, rejecting the need for renunciation or celibacy.

ST

Guru Nanak even changed the definition of Bramcharia "Eka nari dono bramchari".

PSO

The phrase "Eka nari dono brahmachari" translates to "One woman, both (husband and wife) are celibate." It emphasizes the idea that a man and woman who are loyal to each other in marriage can maintain spiritual discipline (brahmacharya). This means that despite being in a relationship, their fidelity and emotional connection help them sustain spiritual purity and control over desires. This concept is often attributed to the Indian sage Tulsidas, who is believed to have promoted this idea in his writings, particularly in the context of family life and spirituality, where loyalty within marriage upholds moral and spiritual discipline. Brahmacharya refers more to the ethical and disciplined approach within a monogamous relationship, not total abstinence from sexual activity. It's about maintaining fidelity and balance, where physical relations are part of a sacred, controlled union rather than indulgence in desires.

ST

Definition of Bramcharia

PSO

For Osho, brahmacharya means being aware and conscious in every moment, including in relationships and sexual experiences. He argued that society's rigid rules around relationships, loyalty, and sexual conduct often lead to repression. Instead, Osho taught that sexuality, when approached with full awareness and no attachment, can lead to spiritual growth. He did not advocate for a particular lifestyle but promoted a more open, self-aware approach to sexuality, love, and relationships. In essence, Osho's philosophy expands on the idea of "Eka nari dono brahmachari" by urging individuals to focus on consciousness and understanding rather than external constraints.

ST-Again

Spiritual Enlightenment has nothing to do with sex. Sex is natural and basic need, part of nature's design. Osho used it for his personal gain/popularity.

PSO

While it's true that sex is a natural part of human existence, Osho’s philosophy goes beyond using it for personal gain. He viewed sex as an energy that, when understood and transcended, could lead to higher states of consciousness, or "superconsciousness." Osho’s approach was to demystify spiritual enlightenment, connecting it to everyday human experiences, including sex, and transforming these into tools for spiritual growth. His teachings challenged traditional views of celibacy and repression, promoting a holistic, more inclusive view of spirituality. Osho did not advocate indulgence, but awareness and transformation of desires, presenting an alternative spiritual path that many found liberating, not merely a tool for popularity.

MS

HUMBUG, NATURAL INSTINCTS WILL REMAIN SO

MS

Celibacy can't be the answer. 1st guru taught us GRISAT YOG ie nothing like family life. HARMONIOUS LIFE

PSO

Natural instincts may remain, but both Sikhism and Osho teach that through awareness and spiritual practice, we can transcend and transform these instincts. They advocate mindful living, not being ruled by base desires.

PSO

True

YS

Celibacy is not against Osho...he does not support that category... That's only that !

PSO

While Osho is not opposed to celibacy, he does not actively promote or emphasize it as the primary path to spiritual growth. Osho believed that spirituality could be attained through various means, including conscious engagement with natural desires like sex, rather than repressing them. Therefore, while celibacy may be a valid choice for some, Osho did not categorize it as essential or superior to other paths, such as using sexual energy for spiritual enlightenment. In essence, Osho focused on self-awareness and inner transformation rather than rigid practices like celibacy.

MUS

You are right in your comment regarding Celibacy. Associated with celibacy are many other like excessive worldly attachments, jealousy, greed, pride etc, and acquiring psychological stability towards all

PSO

Celibacy, when practiced alongside other virtues like detachment from worldly attachments, overcoming jealousy, greed, and pride, aims to bring psychological stability. These traits, commonly associated with spiritual growth, help in developing inner peace and balance. However, Osho's philosophy takes a broader perspective, suggesting that true psychological stability comes from embracing one's natural instincts, including sexuality, rather than repressing them. He believed that awareness and acceptance of these instincts could lead to deeper consciousness, whereas repression could lead to frustration and psychological imbalance. Both approaches emphasize self-awareness, but Osho’s path allows for more freedom and natural expression.

GS to ST

ask an individual who practice Tantric, he worships Yoni before indulging in the final act. Truth, nobody knows, everyone has an opinion as you have and you have a right to your opinion.

PSO

Tantra was widely practiced in India between the 11th and 12th centuries. As opposed to Classic Yoga teachings, Tantric teachings refuted the idea that Moksha (liberation) could be attained only through rigorous asceticism and by renouncing sensual pleasures. Tantrikas (tantric yogis) believed that most human suffering arises from the mistaken concept of separation and advocates instead the celebration of senses and mundane life. In Tantra, sexual energy is not suppressed but transformed into a tool for achieving higher states of consciousness. The worship of the Yoni (symbolizing the feminine principle and source of creation) before the final act represents reverence for the divine feminine energy, Shakti, which Tantra believes is the gateway to spiritual awakening. The "final act" refers to sexual union, not just for pleasure but as a sacred ritual meant to transcend physical desires and merge with the divine. Through meditative practices, slow rituals, and focus on breath and energy, Tantrics aim to channel sexual energy towards spiritual enlightenment.

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