Brahmacharya
As with the idea of dharma, the concept of Brahmacharya is broad enough that it literally means “conducting oneself in accord with Brahman.” It refers to the ancient practice of celibacy for men, considered essential to advanced spiritualists and novices alike who wish to break the bonds of worldly existence. It also refers to the student stage of a man's life. This is the definition that has meaning with relation to dharma. At the Brahmacharya stage, a boy studies the scriptures with his guru. He also learns the meaning of service, waiting on and serving his guru.
In the Brahmanical tradition of stages, or ashramas, the student was expected to remain celibate during the twelve years — from the age of twelve to the age of twenty-four — of Vedic learning with his guru. At that time, it was expected he would take up the household life.
A student studied the Vedas for twelve years, or until he had properly learned it. The student lived with his teacher or guru and helped him with religious observances. He begged food in the morning and in the evening, both for himself and for his teacher.
