The āśrama system divides the ideal life of a twice-born man into four stages: the celibate student, the householder, the forest-dweller who withdraws from family life, and the renouncer who gives up all possessions. The word also means a hermitage, a place of retreat and spiritual teaching.
Āśrama
A stage of life in the classical Hindu scheme: student, householder, forest-dweller and renouncer.
Also: Ashrama, ashram