Prayopavesa

Prayopavesa or Prayopavesha (Sanskrit: प्रायोपवेशनम्) is a traditional Hindu practice of ending one's life through fasting when one's life mission is complete and one feels it is time to depart from this world. It is considered different from suicide as it is not taken in a moment of despair or emotional distress, but rather after a long period of consideration.

Etymology

The term Prayopavesa is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Praya' meaning 'life' and 'Upavesa' meaning 'near', 'approach', or 'sit down'. Thus, Prayopavesa can be translated as 'sitting down near life', indicating the act of willingly approaching death.

Practice

Prayopavesa is a practice that is only allowed for people who have no desire or ambition left, and no responsibilities remaining in life. It is also reserved for those who have no ambition to live and the decision is made when the person is in full consciousness. The person undertaking Prayopavesa declares their intention to fast unto death and then refrains from eating or drinking anything until death occurs.

Religious Significance

In Hinduism, Prayopavesa is considered a legitimate way to end one's life, especially for those who have fulfilled all their duties and have no further obligations. It is seen as a way to attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

Notable Instances

Several notable instances of Prayopavesa have occurred throughout history. For example, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a 15th-century saint, is believed to have ended his life through Prayopavesa. More recently, Vinoba Bhave, a social reformer and spiritual teacher, also chose to end his life through this practice in 1982.

See Also

• Sallekhana
• Euthanasia
• Fasting unto death

References

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