Previously in ancient times, Varnashram dharma was prescribed according to quality and action. Four varnas – brahmin, kshatriya, vaishya and sudra - and four ashrams - brahmachari, grihastha, vanaprastha and sannyasa - were introduced.

Incompetent persons, finding difficulty after marriage to lead household life and to maintain family members, give up family life. By that they commit sin. Acceptance of sannyasa for them is prohibited. There may be some exceptional cases. By providence, some fortunate persons may come in contact with bona fide sadhus and get the chance of gaining the temperament for worshipping God and leading regulated lives.

In Srimad Bhagavatam, third canto, Kapila Bhagavan in His instruction to mother Devahuti spoke about the qualities of a bona fide pure devotee, sadhu. He mentioned in His instruction that one of the qualifications of the sadhu should be mat-krte tyakta-karmanas tyakta-svajana-bandhavah - abandoning Varnashram dharma and relinquishing bodily relations and friends is allowed if it is for the satisfaction of the Supreme Lord. In the case where there is an ulterior motive, to fulfil material desires, then abandoning Varnashram duties and relations will be considered as a sinful act.