Ashrama

Ashrama is a Sanskrit term meaning a place of retreat or a stage of life in Hinduism. It is used to describe two related ideas: the four life stages a Hindu is traditionally expected to pass through, and, in monastic usage, a hermitage or spiritual community led by a guru. The concept links personal development to dharma and spiritual progress.

The four ashramas are Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, and Sannyasa. Brahmacharya emphasizes study, discipline, and celibacy; Grihastha covers marriage, family, work, and social duties; Vanaprastha involves gradual withdrawal from household obligations and more study and meditation; Sannyasa is renunciation and the pursuit of moksha. The stages are not fixed in every tradition; ages and duties vary.

As an institutional form, an ashrama can be a hermitage or monastery where sages teach, study the Vedas, and perform rites. Such communities emphasize spiritual practice (sadhana), service (seva), and guidance from a guru. In modern usage, ashrams may be retreat centers or educational centers offering yoga, meditation, and scriptural study.

In Hindu texts such as the Dharmashastras and the Upanishads, ashrama is presented as a framework for social order and spiritual growth. Interpretations vary by school and reform movement, with some presenting it as historical practice and others applying its ideas more flexibly to contemporary life.