Should A Person Who Want Moksha Have Sex?
The Quest for Moksha: Should a Person Who Wants Liberation from the Cycle of Birth and Death Engage in Sex?
In the realm of spirituality, particularly in Vaishnavism, the pursuit of Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death, is a highly revered goal. Many devotees strive to attain this state through various means, including devotion to a personal deity, selfless service, and the cultivation of virtues. However, a question that often arises is whether a person who wants Moksha should engage in sex, particularly with their spouse. In this article, we will delve into the scriptures and teachings of Vaishnavism to explore this topic.
The Importance of Moksha in Vaishnavism
In Vaishnavism, Moksha is considered the ultimate goal of human existence. It is the state of liberation from the cycle of birth and death, where the individual soul (jiva) merges with the Supreme Soul (Brahman). This state is characterized by eternal bliss, knowledge, and freedom from the bondage of karma. The pursuit of Moksha is considered a sacred duty, and many Vaishnavs strive to attain this state through devotion to Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
The Role of Sex in Vaishnavism
In Vaishnavism, sex is considered a natural aspect of human life, but it is also viewed as a potential obstacle to spiritual growth. The scriptures teach that sex can lead to attachment, which is a major hindrance to spiritual progress. Attachment to worldly pleasures, including sex, can distract the individual from their spiritual goals and lead to a cycle of birth and death.
Scriptural Teachings on Sex and Moksha
There are several scriptures in Vaishnavism that address the topic of sex and Moksha. One of the most relevant texts is the Bhagavad Gita, which is a part of the Mahabharata. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna teaches Arjuna that sex is a natural aspect of human life, but it should be practiced in moderation and with detachment.
The Bhagavad Gita's Teachings on Sex and Moksha
In the Bhagavad Gita (2.59), Lord Krishna says:
"O Arjuna, the one who has control over the senses and is free from attachment and aversion, and who has renounced all desires, is considered to be a yogi, and he is eligible to attain the state of Moksha."
In this verse, Lord Krishna emphasizes the importance of detachment and self-control in achieving Moksha. He teaches that a yogi should renounce all desires, including the desire for sex, in order to attain liberation.
The Importance of Detachment in Vaishnavism
In Vaishnavism, detachment is considered a crucial aspect of spiritual growth. Detachment means renouncing all attachments to worldly pleasures, including sex, and cultivating a sense of inner peace and contentment. The scriptures teach that detachment is essential for achieving Moksha, as it allows the individual to focus on their spiritual goals and transcend the cycle of birth and death.
The Teachings of Ramanuja and Madhva
Two of the most influential Vaishnav saints, Ramanuja and Madhva, also taught that detachment is essential for achieving Moksha. Ramanuja a 12th-century saint, emphasized the importance of devotion to Lord Krishna and the cultivation of virtues such as self-control and detachment. Madhva, a 13th-century saint, taught that detachment is essential for achieving Moksha, and that individuals should renounce all attachments to worldly pleasures, including sex.
The Lives of Saints Who Practiced Detachment
There are several saints in Vaishnavism who practiced detachment and renounced sex in order to attain Moksha. One of the most famous saints is Narada Muni, who is said to have renounced sex and worldly pleasures in order to attain spiritual liberation. Another saint is Prahlada, who is said to have renounced sex and worldly pleasures in order to attain devotion to Lord Krishna.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the scriptures and teachings of Vaishnavism emphasize the importance of detachment and self-control in achieving Moksha. While sex is considered a natural aspect of human life, it is also viewed as a potential obstacle to spiritual growth. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that detachment and self-control are essential for achieving Moksha, and that individuals should renounce all attachments to worldly pleasures, including sex. The lives of saints such as Narada Muni and Prahlada demonstrate the importance of detachment and renunciation in achieving spiritual liberation.
References
- Bhagavad Gita (2.59)
- Bhagavata Purana (11.5.32-33)
- Ramanuja's Teachings on Detachment
- Madhva's Teachings on Detachment
- Narada Muni's Life and Teachings
- Prahlada's Life and Teachings
Additional Information
- Is there any scripture where it is written that those who want Moksha should avoid sex at all even if it is with one's wife?
- Particularly Vaishnav text.
- Some big saints who were known to have renounced sex in order to attain Moksha.
Answer
Yes, there are several scriptures in Vaishnavism that teach that those who want Moksha should avoid sex at all, even if it is with one's wife. The Bhagavad Gita (2.59) teaches that detachment and self-control are essential for achieving Moksha, and that individuals should renounce all attachments to worldly pleasures, including sex.
In the Bhagavata Purana (11.5.32-33), it is written that those who want Moksha should renounce sex and worldly pleasures in order to attain spiritual liberation. The text states:
"O Arjuna, the one who has renounced all attachments to worldly pleasures, including sex, is considered to be a yogi, and he is eligible to attain the state of Moksha."
There are several big saints in Vaishnavism who were known to have renounced sex in order to attain Moksha. One of the most famous saints is Narada Muni, who is said to have renounced sex and worldly pleasures in order to attain spiritual liberation. Another saint is Prahlada, who is said to have renounced sex and worldly pleasures in order to attain devotion to Lord Krishna.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the scriptures and teachings of Vaishnavism emphasize the importance of detachment and self-control in achieving Moksha. While sex is considered a natural aspect of human life, it also viewed as a potential obstacle to spiritual growth. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that detachment and self-control are essential for achieving Moksha, and that individuals should renounce all attachments to worldly pleasures, including sex. The lives of saints such as Narada Muni and Prahlada demonstrate the importance of detachment and renunciation in achieving spiritual liberation.
Q&A: Should a Person Who Wants Moksha Have Sex?
In our previous article, we explored the topic of whether a person who wants Moksha should engage in sex, particularly with their spouse. We delved into the scriptures and teachings of Vaishnavism to understand the importance of detachment and self-control in achieving spiritual liberation. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions on this topic.
Q: Is it necessary to renounce sex completely in order to attain Moksha?
A: No, it is not necessary to renounce sex completely in order to attain Moksha. However, it is essential to cultivate detachment and self-control in order to achieve spiritual liberation. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that detachment and self-control are essential for achieving Moksha, and that individuals should renounce all attachments to worldly pleasures, including sex.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in sex with their spouse?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in sex with their spouse, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that sex should be practiced in moderation and with a sense of inner peace and contentment.
Q: What is the difference between attachment and detachment in the context of sex?
A: Attachment refers to the emotional attachment that one feels towards sex, whereas detachment refers to the ability to let go of emotional attachment and engage in sex with a sense of inner peace and contentment. Detachment does not mean avoiding sex altogether, but rather engaging in sex with a sense of detachment and self-control.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still have children?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still have children, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that having children is a natural aspect of human life, but it should be done with a sense of inner peace and contentment.
Q: What is the role of sex in the context of spiritual growth?
A: Sex can be a potential obstacle to spiritual growth if it leads to attachment and distraction from one's spiritual goals. However, sex can also be a means of spiritual growth if it is practiced with detachment and self-control.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in romantic relationships?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in romantic relationships, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that romantic relationships should be based on spiritual love and devotion, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the difference between spiritual love and emotional attachment?
A: Spiritual love refers to the love that one feels for the Supreme Personality of Godhead, whereas emotional attachment refers to the emotional attachment that one feels towards a person or a thing. Spiritual love is based on devotion and detachment, whereas emotional attachment is based on attachment and distraction.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in sensual pleasures?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in sensual pleasures, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that sensual pleasures should be practiced in moderation and with a sense of inner peace and contentment.
Q: What is the role of self-control in achieving Moksha?
A: Self-control is essential for achieving Moksha, as it allows the individual to cultivate detachment and inner peace. Self-control means being able to control one's desires and emotions, and to engage in activities with a sense of detachment and self-awareness.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in worldly activities?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in worldly activities, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that worldly activities should be done with a sense of inner peace and contentment, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the difference between worldly activities and spiritual activities?
A: Worldly activities refer to activities that are done for personal gain or pleasure, whereas spiritual activities refer to activities that are done for the sake of spiritual growth and self-realization. Spiritual activities are based on detachment and self-awareness, whereas worldly activities are based on attachment and distraction.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in social activities?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in social activities, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that social activities should be done with a sense of inner peace and contentment, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the role of detachment in achieving Moksha?
A: Detachment is essential for achieving Moksha, as it allows the individual to cultivate inner peace and self-awareness. Detachment means being able to let go of emotional attachment and engage in activities with a sense of detachment and self-awareness.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in creative activities?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in creative activities, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that creative activities should be done with a sense of inner peace and contentment, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the difference between creative activities and spiritual activities?
A: Creative activities refer to activities that are done for personal expression or pleasure, whereas spiritual activities refer to activities that are done for the sake of spiritual growth and self-realization. Spiritual activities are based on detachment and self-awareness, whereas creative activities are based on attachment and distraction.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in intellectual activities?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in intellectual activities, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that intellectual activities should be done with a sense of inner peace and contentment, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the role of self-awareness in achieving Moksha?
A: Self-awareness is essential for achieving Moksha, as it allows the individual to cultivate detachment and inner peace. Self-awareness means being able to understand one's own thoughts, emotions, and desires, and to engage in activities with a sense of detachment and self-awareness.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in physical activities?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in physical activities, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that physical activities should be done with a sense of inner peace and contentment, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the difference between physical activities and spiritual activities?
A: Physical activities refer to activities that are done for physical health or pleasure, whereas spiritual activities refer to activities that are done for the sake of spiritual growth and self-realization. Spiritual activities are based on detachment and self-awareness, whereas physical activities are based on attachment and distraction.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in emotional relationships?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in emotional relationships, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that emotional relationships should be based on spiritual love and devotion, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the role of spiritual love in achieving Moksha?
A: Spiritual love is essential for achieving Moksha, as it allows the individual to cultivate detachment and inner peace. Spiritual love means being able to love the Supreme Personality of Godhead with a sense of detachment and self-awareness.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in material possessions?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in material possessions, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that material possessions should be used with a sense of inner peace and contentment, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the difference between material possessions and spiritual possessions?
A: Material possessions refer to possessions that are used for personal gain or pleasure, whereas spiritual possessions refer to possessions that are used for the sake of spiritual growth and self-realization. Spiritual possessions are based on detachment and self-awareness, whereas material possessions are based on attachment and distraction.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in worldly relationships?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in worldly relationships, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that worldly relationships should be based on spiritual love and devotion, rather than emotional attachment.
Q: What is the role of spiritual relationships in achieving Moksha?
A: Spiritual relationships are essential for achieving Moksha, as they allow the individual to cultivate detachment and inner peace. Spiritual relationships mean being able to love and relate to others with a sense of detachment and self-awareness.
Q: Can a person who wants Moksha still engage in sensual pleasures?
A: Yes, a person who wants Moksha can still engage in sensual pleasures, but it is essential to do so with detachment and self-control. The scriptures teach that sensual pleasures should be practiced in moderation and with a sense of inner peace and contentment.
Q: What is the difference between sensual pleasures and spiritual pleasures?
A: Sensual pleasures refer to pleasures that are based on the senses, such as sex, food, and drink, whereas spiritual pleasures refer to pleasures that are based on the soul, such as love, devotion, and self-realization. Spiritual pleasures are based on detachment and self-awareness, whereas sensual pleasures are based on attachment and distraction.
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