देवद्विजगुरुप्राज्ञपूजनं शौचमार्जवम् | ब्रह्मचर्यमहिंसा च शारीरं तप उच्यते || 14 || |
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Commentary
This verse describes the various forms of austerity or tapas pertaining to the physical body. It mentions the following practices:
Devapuja: Worship of the gods – This refers to the act of offering reverence and devotion to divine beings. It involves rituals, prayers, and offerings made to the deities.
Dvija: Worship of the twice-born – This pertains to showing respect and reverence towards those belonging to the traditional Vedic social system, such as Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas. It involves honoring their knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual lineage.
Gurupujana: Worship of the teachers – This involves showing respect and reverence to spiritual teachers, gurus, and guides who impart knowledge and wisdom. It includes seeking their guidance, studying under their tutelage, and following their teachings.
Prajñapujana: Worship of the wise – This refers to honoring and seeking the association of wise and knowledgeable individuals who possess spiritual insight and understanding. It involves learning from their wisdom and seeking their guidance on the spiritual path.
Shaucha: Purity – This refers to the practice of cleanliness, both external and internal. It involves maintaining personal hygiene, cleanliness of surroundings, and purity of thoughts, words, and actions.
Arjavam: Straightforwardness – This implies being honest, sincere, and straightforward in one’s dealings. It involves transparency, integrity, and the absence of duplicity or deceit.
Brahmacharya: Celibacy or chastity – This pertains to the practice of restraining and sublimating sexual desires. It involves leading a disciplined and controlled life, particularly in matters related to sexual conduct.
Ahimsa: Non-violence – This refers to the practice of non-violence in thoughts, words, and actions. It involves refraining from causing harm or injury to any living being and cultivating a mindset of compassion and kindness.
These practices are considered austerities of the body because they involve disciplining and purifying the physical body and its actions. They are seen as ways to cultivate virtues, spiritual qualities, and a harmonious relationship with the divine, teachers, and wise individuals. By incorporating these practices into one’s life, individuals strive to purify their physical existence and align their actions with higher principles, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and inner transformation.