Why is asceticism considered against certain teachings?
Synthesized from Source
definition
"Asceticism is self-directed violence that masquerades as spirituality; true religion celebrates life, embracing joy rather than rejecting the body and senses."
According to Osho, asceticism is against true spirituality because it is self-directed violence—masochism disguised as religion—that nourishes the ego with a false sense of power. It represses life’s energies, rejects joy, and becomes a slow suicide. Authentic religion is life-affirming: a healthy, whole acceptance and celebration of existence, not antagonism toward the body or senses.
Hurting or denying yourself to feel spiritual is hidden self-violence; real spirituality is kind, joyful, and loves life.
Why this matters practically
- Choose self-care and awareness over self-punishment.
- Avoid ego trips disguised as holiness; live humbly and joyfully.
- Transform desires consciously instead of repressing them; celebrate life responsibly.
- Avoid ego trips disguised as holiness; live humbly and joyfully.
- Transform desires consciously instead of repressing them; celebrate life responsibly.
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