Two types of Brahmachari: Naishthika and Upakurvana

The story of Kardama Muni (SB 3.22.11) describes the proper acceptance of the grihastha ashram, spiritual householder life, by an upakurvana-brahmachari. There are two types of brahmacharis or celibate students: naishthika and upakurvana. They both have the same training and understanding, but a difference in realisation. They both have the same understanding of the material world and grihastha life, but by realisation the naishthika does not need the emotional support. Therefore grihastha life is not necessary for him, whereas the upakurvana feels the need for that support and so grihastha life is ideal for his situation.

based on a lecture by H.H. Bhakti Vidyapurna Maharaj