rejected the vedic tradition and wandered free from householder duties and family; dependant on alms - this allowed them to think and develop their ideas. The name given to these wandering philosophers was Samanas. Most came from urban dwellings where traditional authorities were being questioned and disease was inevitable. sought to find a basis of true and lasting happiness in a changing and insecure world. - Introduction to Buddhism - Harvey. The Sanskrit term samnyasa is understood as the renunciation of the world. It refers both to the initiatory rite at which a renouncer formally breaks all his ties with society and to the way of life which he is so initiated. There are many sects that took on this renouncer mentality and all there main features are the same, but there doctrines and practices varied. A question which I am sure resides on everyones mind at this point is, where did this idea of renunciation actually stem from? It is all very well describing various conditions in which this tradition grew up, but it is interesting to see a certain continuity, or not as the case maybe. The first place to look for a sense of continuity, is in the Vedic texts. In the Rg Veda Samhita, there is a description of long-haired ascetics (Kesin) or silent ones (muni) in the Kesin Hymn. They are naked or swathed in wind. They have ecstatic experiences they are possessed by the gods - this is debatable, however, there is speculation as to whether this is induced by drugs/ hallucinogenic or yoga practices that would remove the mind to another state of consciouness. This description of the Kesin is reminiscent of later ascetics who undergo inner experiences, which I mentioned earlier, and will explain further later. It seems reasonable to assume that this Kesin hymn represents a form of asceticism that existed outside of the traditional vedic culture, prior to the renunciation movement, and perhaps even an influence or inspirati...
