shramana

Shramana refers to a tradition of asceticism and contemplative practices that emerged in ancient India, predating Buddhism and Jainism. The term "Shramana" literally translates to "one who strives" or "one who exerts themselves," highlighting the emphasis on self-discipline, renunciation, and rigorous self-purification. Shramana practitioners, often called Shramanas, typically withdrew from societal norms and engaged in practices such as meditation, fasting, and extreme physical austerities to achieve spiritual liberation or enlightenment.

These traditions offered an alternative to the prevailing Vedic Brahmanical system. Shramanas challenged the authority of the Vedas and the caste system, emphasizing individual effort and direct experience over ritualistic practices and inherited status. They explored philosophical concepts such as karma, rebirth, and the nature of the soul (atman), though their interpretations often differed from Brahmanical views. Key principles often associated with Shramana thought include the idea of liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and the pursuit of a state of ultimate peace or bliss (nirvana or moksha).

The Shramana movement significantly influenced the development of major Indian religions, most notably Buddhism and Jainism, which arose directly from this milieu and incorporated many of its core tenets. While distinct Shramana schools existed, many of their specific doctrines and practices have been lost to history or are only known through their influence on later traditions. The enduring legacy of Shramana lies in its profound impact on the spiritual and philosophical landscape of India.