ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Āśrama (stage)

Okay, kiddo, so āśrama is like a big game with four main levels or stages. Each stage is like a challenge to complete, kind of like when you get to a new level in your favorite video game.

The first stage is called Brahmacharya. It's like when you start your schooling and you have to learn a lot of new things. In Brahmacharya, you learn about being a good person and doing things that are right. You also learn all about different subjects like math, science, and history.

The second stage is called Grihastha. This is when you grow up and start a family. It's like when you start playing family games and take care of a doll or a pet. In Grihastha, you get married and have kids. You have to work hard to take care of your family and provide for them.

The third stage is Vanaprastha. This stage is like when you get older and start to retire. It's like when you stop playing with toys and start doing more grown-up things like reading and gardening. In Vanaprastha, you start to think about your life and what you have learned so far. You focus on being spiritual and giving back to others.

The fourth and final stage is Sannyasa. This is like when you become a wise old sage. It's like when you become a grandparent and everyone comes to you for advice. In Sannyasa, you give up all of your material possessions and focus solely on becoming one with the universe.

So there you have it, kiddo. āśrama is like a game with four levels: Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, and Sannyasa. Each level is like a new challenge, and each one helps you grow and become a better person.