What is the significance of self-restraint and renunciation in the teachings of Mahavira and Buddha?
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definition
"True self-restraint and renunciation blossom effortlessly from the treasure of inner fulfillment, while forced asceticism only breeds dryness and misery."
According to Osho, Mahavira and Buddha did not preach renunciation as an end; they celebrated fulfillment. True self‑restraint and renunciation arise effortlessly after inner attainment—joy, awareness, and wisdom—making the nonessential drop like junk after a treasure arrives. Forced asceticism by the ignorant breeds dryness and misery; the wise first realize, then shedding happens, revealing a vibrant, joyful life.
Don’t start by giving things up; become rich inside, and the useless stuff will fall away on its own.
Why this matters practically
- Prevents harmful, guilt-driven self-denial.
- Refocuses practice on awareness and joy instead of mechanical austerity.
- Guides natural letting go as consciousness grows.
- Refocuses practice on awareness and joy instead of mechanical austerity.
- Guides natural letting go as consciousness grows.
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