Since ancient time, silence is worshipped as an important component of spiritual discipline. Initially, the practice of this virtue may commence with some three hours of silence at noon time, say on Sunday or any other suitable day. This practice may be enhanced by routines, the vow daily from 8.00 p.m. to 8.00 a.m. the next day. During these hours, the exceptions could be made for prayers, uttering a hymn of praise for adoration of God. The vow of continuous silence for three to seven days is very helpful during the course of intensive meditation and scripture writing. Thus is practiced the vow of silence by different aspirants, according to their circumstances and the various stages of their spiritual advancements.
Only through deep contemplation and the practice of silence, is it possible to become a genuine ascetic (Monk).
Spiritual progress (Samadhi) is attained only by right restraint on speech and breaking through the chain of indecisions and doubts. Advanced aspirants should therefore, constantly praise self-steadiness (Atma-sthirata) together with silence during meditation. Lord Mahavira, after the renunciation of the worldly life, observed silence for twelve and a half years. Mahatma Gandhi used to observe silence on every Monday. Yogi Shri Maharshi
Aurbindo observed silence for seventeen years. Ramana Maharshi very often inspired those desirous of self-knowledge, to search after "Who am I?" in a state of silence. He too passed much of his time in a state of silence. The immense utility of the practice of silence is thus witnessed in the lives of all these great men.
In the present days, many monks resort to the practice of silence from evening to sunrise.
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