Page 100 - Courage Redifined

7. Kamlata's Misery

Why was Kamlata’s thought of committing suicide
inappropriate ? A brahmin’s wife, Kamlata had become a
prostitute but as she hailed from a reputed family, she repented
her misdeed with her son. So intense was her repentance that
she considered the earth to be burdened with her sinful self.
Hence she decided to commit suicide and end her life.

But, we need to understand that the decision to commit suicide
is completely inappropriate because suicide can reduce one’s
life span but cannot reduce one’s sins or the sinful thought
process that has developed in one's mind. When Dradhaprahari
wished to shorten his life, he was advised by a wise Saint, “By
committing suicide you will die but your sins will not die.”

To repent onone’s sins and sinful mentality, one should
practice non-violence, penance and strong resistance over
temptations.

Q. : Isn't taking Anshan*, a kind of suicide ?
A. : No. While taking Anshan, the intention is not to die and
hence it cannot be termed as suicide. The real purpose
and thought process behind Anshan is this, “I have done
maximum possible penance and renounciation with the
help of this body. Now this body has become weak and
fragile. It will collapse anytime. To avoid its unexpected
farewell and to be able to utilize it optimally, let me

* Anshan - fasting till death

90 Courage Redefined