Asceticism in Buddhism and HinduismAsceticism comes from the Greek word "askesis", which means practice, physical exercise and athletic training (Cambell). Early Christians adopted this concept to predict spiritual things in order to acquire habits of virtue. Virtue is behavior that displays high moral standards. There is also natural asceticism in the sense that it is for self-improvement and aims directly at natural virtues such as temperance, patience and chastity. The following will explain what asceticism is, why it is practiced, and the nature of ascetic practices in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Practicing asceticism is an attempt in someone's life to achieve various goals such as working on the inner self as a "whole" to achieve liberation and self-control. Even the ancient Greeks even practiced asceticism; the athletes who participated in the Olympic Games disciplined themselves to avoid the common pleasure. Having attachment to material things meant not being able to focus on the important things that needed to be done. Athletes who refrained from normal pleasure were able to achieve a mental focus that helped them think about the daily tasks that needed to be done. The sophists, who were teachers, writers, and lecturers, instructed others in the concept of askesis (Eliot). These askesis trainers were paid in exchange for the service they provided. Asceticism among Buddhists and Hindus is a form of expression practiced throughout the world by many different contexts and religions. Furthermore, the ancient Israelites abstained from sexual intercourse when they went to war to maintain the mentality of the situation (Cambell). Askesis, deriving from the word asceticism, is ex...... middle of sheet ......c. 2013. .Campbell, Thomas. "Asceticism." The Catholic Encyclopedia. vol. 1. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1907. December 9, 2013. Devinda, Monk. The 13 ascetic practices. Np, 2007. Web. 9 December 2013. .Ed. Jayram VNp, 2013. Web. 10 December 2013. .Eliot, Sir Charles. HINDUISM AND BUDDHISM. 1921.vol. 1. London: ROUTLEDGE & KEGAN PAUL LTD, 1954. 3 vols. library of wisdom. Network. December 9, 2013. Lanman, Charles R. “Hindu Ascetics and Their Powers.” xlvi. Print.Regina, Christopher. "Asceticism." Academic Journals 49.1 (1999): 75-78. Network. 9 December. 2013.