Ask Osho!

What is the rationale behind giving sannyas to children and infants?

Synthesized from Source definition

"Children's innocence allows them to receive initiation more deeply than the calculating minds of adults, and it is unjust to deny sannyas to those who are already 'asleep."

According to Osho, he sometimes gives sannyas to children and even infants because everyone who comes is 'asleep' anyway, so refusing them would be unjust, and children's innocence receives initiation more deeply than adults' calculating minds. It is not automatic: he waits until he senses existential readiness - sometimes even in the womb - judging the soul's maturity beyond age, favoring a spontaneous, non-intellectual jump over a concluded decision.
He gives sannyas to kids because everyone is still asleep inside, and kids are more innocent and open; he only does it when he truly feels they are ready.
Why this matters practically
- Choose from innocence, not overthinking or self-interest.
- Trust inner readiness over age or social timelines.
- Act authentically and wholeheartedly instead of pretending to be awake.
AI Confidence Score: 95% Read Original Discourse →