The four Vairagyas

Vairagya means determination. Pursuing a spiritual path requires Vairagya. There are four Vairagyas.

1. Prasava Vairagyam: When one is pregnant, the desire for a safe pregnancy can lead some on the spiritual path temporarily.

2. PurAna/UpanyAsa Vairagyam: Puranas are old spiritual texts. Listening to spiritual talks, reading spiritual works can help the restless mind focus temporarily on a spiritual goal. This is the easiest path, but requires repeated reminders, by repeated reading & listening.

3. Smashana Vairagyam: Smashanam means cremation ground. A close encounter with death can result in one turning spiritual. This can also happen when death or a close encounter visits close family or friends. This is likely to exist longer, but will still be temporary in nature.

4. Gnana Vairagyam: Gnanam means knowledge. Once people realize the inner truth for themselves, they know. There are people who meditate for long periods of time, and have done so consistently for decades. They have realized the value & persist with their practice. Their practice becomes a Sadhana, which means achievement, also implying the only achievement that truly matters.

Source: Haridas Giri Upanyasam