Restraint

Frequently translated as celibacy, the meaning of brahmacharya is much more comprehensive. From a religious point it means one who’s actions are all dedicate to God, who’s actions are all pure and holy.

The yamas and niyamas however are not only applicable to celibates or monks. Rather they were laid out for all humanity. So what exactly does brahmacharya mean? It means restraint. It means moderation. It means realizing that the purpose of life is much greater and far deeper than continually fulfilling one’s urges.