| The term 'posadha is derived from the Sanskrit verbal root 'pus' meaning '10 nourish, to foster, to support, to cause to grow, to develop'. So, the term 'posadha' means that which nourishes, fosters, supports the soul or its natural qualities. In this vow, the vower observes a fast or takes only one meal a day and like a monk remains engaged in the religious ritel for 4 or 8 praharas, (one prahara = approximately 3 hours). The objective! of this vow is to make the householder relish the nectar of the life of total refrainment from all evil activities, keeping him away from the hubbub, troubles and anxieties of the worldly life. In this vow, the vower observes total abstinence from sex activity before he undertakes religious rites and performs them according to proper procedure. The time left out by thesl rites is utilised in the study and discussions elevating and ennobling tha soul. |