Question

Write short notes on the ashramvyavastha.

Answer 1

During the Vedic period, the “twice-born castes” were allotted Ashramvyavastha. The term referenced the four stages of a Hindu's existence. Human life was computed at a rate of one hundred years and divided into four stages, each lasting around twenty-five years. Each stage was referred to as an ashram.

They were:

• Brahmacharyaashram (studenthood, single status and celibacy) (8 to 25 years): An individual is expected to complete the initiation process (upanayan) and attend the teacher's residence for study before entering social life. They expect him to acquire knowledge that will be beneficial in his future life.
• Grihasthaashram (Householder) (26 to 50 years): After completing their education, an individual enters a grihasthaashram. He is required to marry to perpetuate the race. We expect him to feed and care for his offspring and other living beings. He is also supposed to carry out the Purusharthas, namely Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. 
• Vanprasthaashram (Hermithood and Retirement) (51 to 75 years): After completing familial and social responsibilities, a grishastha is expected to abandon these activities and travel to the jungle to prepare sanaysashram. He is preparing to acquire moksha, which is the ultimate objective.
• Sanyasashram (Renunciation) (76 to 100 years): In this ashram, a person entirely abandons all attachments and focuses on achieving Moksha.
• As a result, there is a connection between the ashram system and the achievement of Purusharthas (aims).