Meaning: The quote "That was my childhood. I grew up with the monks, studying Sanskrit and meditating for hours in the morning and hours in the evening, and going once a day to beg for food" by Satish Kumar, a renowned activist, provides a glimpse into a unique and unconventional upbringing. Satish Kumar's experiences as a child growing up with monks, immersed in the study of Sanskrit, meditation, and the humility of begging for food, have undoubtedly shaped his worldview and approach to life. This quote offers insight into the values and practices that have influenced Kumar's perspective and contributed to his role as an influential activist.

Satish Kumar was born in 1936 in India and was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence and simplicity. At the age of nine, he left his family to join the wandering Jain monks, embarking on a journey that would profoundly impact his understanding of the world and his own purpose within it. The monks provided him with a spiritual education rooted in ancient traditions, emphasizing the importance of self-discipline, introspection, and devotion to higher ideals.

Studying Sanskrit, the ancient language of Hindu scriptures and classical Indian literature, would have exposed Kumar to a rich cultural and philosophical heritage. Sanskrit is not merely a language but a repository of ancient wisdom, encompassing texts on metaphysics, ethics, and spirituality. Through his studies, Kumar would have gained insights into the profound teachings of ancient sages and the timeless principles that continue to resonate in contemporary discourse.

Meditation, a practice central to Kumar's upbringing, holds deep significance in various spiritual traditions, including Jainism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others. The discipline of sitting in meditation for extended periods fosters inner stillness, self-awareness, and a heightened sense of interconnectedness with the world. It cultivates qualities of mindfulness, compassion, and clarity of thought, which are essential for navigating life's challenges and engaging in meaningful activism.

The act of begging for food, a practice embraced by ascetics and mendicants in many spiritual traditions, instills humility, dependence on the generosity of others, and a deep appreciation for the sustenance provided by the community. By regularly seeking alms, Kumar would have learned firsthand the value of simplicity, gratitude, and the interconnectedness of all beings. This experience likely contributed to his later advocacy for sustainable living, environmental stewardship, and the ethical treatment of all living creatures.

Kumar's upbringing with the monks not only shaped his personal ethos but also laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to social and environmental causes. His experiences instilled in him a deep reverence for life, a holistic understanding of interconnectedness, and a profound sense of responsibility toward the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants.

As an activist, Satish Kumar has been a leading voice for a more sustainable and harmonious world. He has championed causes such as ecological conservation, sustainable agriculture, and the promotion of inner well-being alongside outer environmental action. His early immersion in the teachings and practices of the monks has undoubtedly informed his holistic approach to activism, which seeks to address not only external environmental challenges but also the inner transformation and ethical values necessary for a more balanced and compassionate society.

In conclusion, Satish Kumar's quote provides a poignant reflection on his formative years and the profound influence of his childhood experiences with the monks. His immersion in Sanskrit studies, meditation practice, and the humbling act of begging for food laid the groundwork for his later role as an activist and advocate for a more sustainable and interconnected world. Kumar's journey from a childhood shaped by ancient wisdom to a life dedicated to the well-being of the planet serves as an inspiring example of how personal experiences can catalyze meaningful and transformative action.