The strong have always exploited the weak.Sexual abuse is not an integral part of being human but having a weak will and imperfections are ... And these can lead to sexual abuse... So sexual abuse is the derivative of these traits and not the primary function. Can you confidently say you wouldn't repeat the same behaviour that Swami Rama exhibited if you found yourself in his circumstances ? Have you practiced sexual continence, brahmacharya ? If so what has your experience been ?
Thats obviously true, but perhaps sexuality is an essential part of a fully human life. I think really this affair pales into insignificance compared to the child abuse scandals presently engulfing the catholic church. Seems to me that Rama's crime is more one of dishonesty - posing as celibate whilst not really being so.
While child abuse is worse, Swami Rama did much more than pose as celibate. He used his position and power as a spiritual leader to coerce several women to sleep with him. That's a combination of rape and mindfuck and I think it is sickening. Yes, sexuality is a big part of being human. But it can be transcended, and those who have are few and far between. For everyone else, don't become a monk, goddamit. Makin me want to curse an' all.
Adultery,Incest,Rape, and even Necrophilia... All this and more gods of the Hindu pantheon have indulged in time and time again... I don't condone sexual abuse and the law should take it's own course but if you have such high standards you will find that even our gods will fail to pass them.
