Question 14
Child: Can you please tell me something about the stages of life in Hinduism?
Mother: Yes, Hindus believe that spiritual development in one's life can be
achieved by passing through four equal stages during a life span of 108 years.
Each stage is called ashrama, and spans 27 years. In the first or child
stage, the development of moral values are emphasized by studying with teachers.
In the second stage, the pleasures of marriage and family life are enjoyed along
with other aspirations and achievements while good citizenship is emphasized.
In the third stage, less emphasis is put on worldly affairs and more attention
is given to the spiritual aspects. This is to prepare for the fourth and final
stage when a Hindu is supposed to experience the true spirituality of nature and
be close to the final objective of liberation from worldly bondage (moksha).
