Vanaprastha
(वानप्रस्थ)Literal Meaning
Departure to the forest
Etymology & Sanskrit Root
'Vana' (forest) plus 'prastha' (going toward); the third ashrama, when a person gradually withdraws from active household duties — traditionally handing responsibilities to grown children and turning increasingly toward contemplation.
Spiritual Insight & Context
Vanaprastha models a graceful, gradual retirement rather than an abrupt break — teaching that spiritual withdrawal is a process of loosening attachment, not a single dramatic renunciation.