By Visakha Dasi
Marriage is like a fortress created by the husband and wife to protect themselves from the powerful enemies of the uncontrolled senses so that both of them may peacefully advance spiritually. “The bodily senses are considered plunderers of the fort of the body. The wife is supposed to be the commander of the fort, and therefore whenever there is an attack on the body by the senses, it is the wife who protects the body from being smashed.” (SB 3.14.20) “There is no difference between a good wife and good intelligence. One who possesses good intelligence can deliberate properly and save himself from many dangerous conditions.” (SB 4.26.16) “One who is situated in household life and who systematically conquers his mind and five sense organs is like a king in his fortress who conquers his powerful enemies.” (SB 5.1.18) As in any battle, if they would be victorious, the fighters must first be enthusiastic.