There are four recognized ashramas: brahmacharya, garhasthya, vanaprastha and sannyasa. In Hinduism, grihastha, or householders, play a vital role in society and spiritual practice. There are indeed four distinct types of grihasthas, each with its own set of duties and practices:
Vartakavritti Grihastha: These individuals engage in
occupations such as agriculture, dairy farming, trade, and commerce, which are
considered virtuous and blameless in Hindu society. They lead a life dedicated
to their work, sustaining themselves and their families while also offering
prayers and devotion to the Supreme Self (Brahman).
Shalinavritti Grihastha: Members of this group primarily
focus on performing Vedic rituals, studying the Vedas, and engaging in acts of
charity by giving gifts to others. However, they refrain from conducting Vedic
sacrifices for others, teaching the Vedas to others, or accepting gifts
themselves. Their lives are centered around upholding the sanctity of Vedic
knowledge and rituals.
Yayavara Grihastha Yayavara grihasthas combine the
practices of both the Shalinavritti and Vartakavritti groups. They perform
Vedic sacrifices not only for themselves but also for others, study and teach
the Vedas, and participate in acts of charity by giving and accepting gifts.
They maintain the Vedic fires and continue to pray to the Supreme Self,
actively engaging in both spiritual and worldly responsibilities.
Ghora-Samnysasika Grihastha: This category represents the
most austere form of householders. They lead a highly disciplined and
minimalist lifestyle, relying on water obtained from wells and purified by
straining, as well as subsisting on grains gathered directly from the fields, a
practice known as "unchavritti." Despite their rigorous lifestyle,
they faithfully perform prescribed Vedic rites throughout their lives and
maintain a deep connection with the Supreme Self through prayer and devotion.
Each type of grihastha represents a distinct approach to
balancing worldly duties with spiritual aspirations within the framework of
Hindu philosophy and tradition.