Glossary
āshram
1. A place where a seeker can remain engrossed in spiritual practice through spiritual discipline, 2 An abode of a Saint or a Holy man, 3. Stages of life
Abhang
A hymn
Abhishēk
Consecration by ritualistic bathing with water, milk etc.
ābhūshaṇ
Ornament(s)
Abhyangasnān
A Holy bath after applying oil, ubṭan to the whole body
āchaman
Sipping water from the cupped palm thrice, while uttering the first three of the twenty-four names of Srīvishṇu and releasing the water into a plate from the palm while uttering the fourth name
āchār
Conduct conforming to Shruti and Smruti, general conduct. (Also, custom, tradition)
Āchārdharma
Code of righteous conduct
Āchārsamhitā
Compilation of a text on Āchār
Āchārya
A spiritual guide or teacher (especially one who teaches the students after their thread ceremony, and instructs them in Vēdās, laws of sacrifice and Dharma)
Adharma
Unrighteousness
Adharmācharaṇ
Unrighteous conduct
Adharmācharaṇ̣ī
One with unrighteous conduct
Ādhibhoutik (Physical)
Related mainly to body; for example hunger/thirst, snake bite, wars or fights with other living beings
Ādhidaivik (Divine)
Generated by Prakriti, for example extreme weather, earthquake, excessive rain or lack of it
Adhik mahinā / mās
Intercalary month of the Hindu lunar calendar
Adhyāpan
Imparting knowledge, teaching, instruction
Adhyātma
1. Spirituality, 2. Means pertaining to the soul
Adhyātma-chētanā
Spiritual vitality
Ādhyātmik (Spiritual)
Related to the Mental plane, for example anger, greed, infatuation, recurring doubts, infidelity etc.
Adhyayan
Study
Ādi
1. Beginning, 2. First, 3. Primitive
Ādi Shankarāchārya
The first Shankarāchārya - He was a great philosopher, mystic and poet from Bharat. He founded the Advaita Vēdānt (Non-dualism) School of thought.
Ādishaiva
A hereditary priest and teacher of the South Bharatiya Shaiva Siddhant tradition
Ādi-shakti, Ādi-māyā
Primal energy
Āditya
Sun Deity
Ādnyā-chakra
Sixth centre or chakra in the spiritual energy system; located in the mid-brow region in the subtle-body
Advait
Non-duality
Advait siddhānt or Advait-vād
Doctrine of non-duality
Aghor, aghori
An order of mendicants, who roam around with a skull in one hand and burning coals in the other; also, a sect that worships Deity Shiva
Agni
Fire
Agnidēvatā
Deity of Fire
Agnihotra
Perpetual maintenance of the Agni or sacred fire by offering oblations; also, the ritual performed twice a day, at sunset and sunrise
Agnihotrīs
Those who keep the sacred fire burning perpetually; also those who perform the ritual twice a day, at sunset and sunrise
Aham Brahmāsmi
‘I am Brahman’. One of the four important statements from the Upanishads
Ahimsā
1. Non-violence, 2. Refraining from causing harm to others physically, mentally or emotionally
Aishwarya
1. Prosperity, 2. Wealth
Aitarēyopanishad
A part of the Holy scripture Aitarēya-Araṇyak
Ajapājap
Spontaneous and continuous chanting
Akarma
An act, action which does not give rise to destiny
Akarma-karma
An act, action which despite being a karma bestows the benefits of akarma
Ākāsh
Absolute Ether, sky or space The subtlest of Pancha-mahābhūtās (Five Cosmic Principles)
Ākāshavāṇī
Divine message
Aksharbrahman
Brahman Principle in the alphabet
Aksharyoga
Path of God-realisation through letters
Akshatā
Unbroken rice grains, usually smeared with kumkum and used in ritualistic worship
Akshouhiṇī
This was an ancient battle formation that consisted of 21,870 chariots; 21,870 elephants; 65,610 cavalry and 109,350 infantry, as per the Mahābhārat [Ādi Parva 2.15-23]. The ratio is 1 chariot : 1 elephant : 3 cavalry : 5 infantry soldiers. In each of these large number groups [65,610 etc.], the digits add up to 18)
Alakshmī
Misfortune
Alankār
Ornament(s)
Amāvasyā
Last day of the Krushṇapaksha (Dark fortnight) of Hindu lunar fortnight, the new-moon day
Amrut
Divine nectar which immortalises the one who drinks it
Anāhat-chakra
The fourth centre in the spiritual energy flow system, located in the region of the heart in the subtle-body
Anāhat-nāda
An experience of the Ākāshtattva (Absolute Ether Principle) in the form of a continuous Divine sound similar to the blowing of a conch, ringing of temple bells etc.
Anāmay
The stage where there is no bhavarog
Ānand
Bliss
Ānandāvasthā
Blissful state
Ānhik
Daily rituals in the morning
Annamay-kosha
Sheath of the physical body
Annapūrṇā
Deity which provides food and sustains prosperity
Antahakaraṇ
The inner sense organs consisting of the conscious mind, sub-conscious mind, intellect and ego
Āntarkumbhak
Internal kumbhak
Antarman
Subconscious mind
Antaryāmī
One who knows the inner self
Anushtḥān
A religious performance, undertaking
Āpa
Absolute Water. One of the five Cosmic Principles (Pancha-mahābhūtās)
Aparānhakāl
Afternoon
Apasavya
Shifting the sacred thread from the left to the right shoulder
Āpatattva
Absolute Water Principle
Apourushēya
One that has not originated from man
Apsarā
1. Beautiful and/or supernatural women from superior subtle regions
āpṭā
Mountain ebony tree
Ārādhyadēvatā
Deity of worship
Āratī
A ritual of waving a lit lamp in front of a Deity and Saints, accompanied by singing of hymns
Arghyadān
(Ritual) An oblation of water to God
Ark
Essence or Distillate, One of the names of the Sun Deity, which is associated with Tēj (Fire Principle) and the sense of sight (Vision)
Artha
Material gain
āsan
1. Posture, 2. Seat
Asat
Non-truth, that is, Māyā (The Great Illusion)
Āshāḍha
Fourth month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Ashṭadēvatā
Eight superior Deities
Ashṭa-gandha
A mixture of eight fragrant herbs (chandan, kēsar, bhīmsēnī kapūr, heenā, āgar, tulsī, bēl, durvā) used for Deity worship
Ashṭalokpāl
The eight presiding Deities (of the subordinate Deities)
Ashṭamī
Eighth day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Ashṭāngāsan
Bending the elbows, place the palms on the ground and move the entire body towards the ground. Touch the forehead, chest, palms, knees and the toes, that is, eight organs to the ground.
Ashṭasāttvik-bhāv
Eight manifestations of spiritual emotion evoked in a seeker which are – tears of joy, trembling of voice, shivering, goose pimples, mask-like face, stillness of the body, sweating, expression of emotion on the face
ashvattha Holy fig tree
Āshwin
Seventh month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Asmitā
Ego, ‘I’, ‘mine’, Identity
Atharvavēda
Third of the four most sacred Hindu scriptures
Atithipūjan, Manushyayadnya
Ceremonious welcome of the guest
ātmā
Soul
ātma-bal
Power of the soul
ātma-bhāv
Spiritual emotion related to soul
ātma-dnyān
Knowledge that 'I am the self-realised soul'
ātma-dnyānī
Self-realised soul
ātma-jyoti
Flame-like appearance of the soul
ātmānand
Bliss from self-realisation
ātma-nivēdan
Conversation with God through an emotion of surrender
ātmānubhūti
Spiritual experience of the soul
ātma-sākshātkār
Self-realisation
ātma-shakti
Energy of the soul
ātma-swarūp
Soul form
ātmatattva
Soul Principle
Audumbar
Cluster fig tree
Aukshaṇ
Ritual of waving a lit lamp in front of a Saint or a person
Avadhūt
1. Another Name of Deity Datta, 2. An Ascetic
Avatār
1. An Incarnation of God, 2. God coming down to earth in any life-form
Avidyā
Ignorance
Āyurvēda
One of the four upa-Vēdās of Atharvavēda. It teaches that good health depends on the balance of three constituents of the body – vāta (Wind), pitta (Bile) and kapha (Phlegm)
Aahirkumbhak
Holding the breath after exhalation
Bahiryāg
External worship
Bali
King of asurs and Pātāl
Bālkrushṇa
Infant Krushṇa
Bālsanskārvarg
Moral education class for children
Bandha
Bandha refers to blocking the flow of spiritual energy through a specific nāḍī (Channel) by performing a yogic posture
Baṭu
Boy whose thread ceremony is being performed
Bēl
Aegle marmelos tree
Bhādrapad
Sixth month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Bhagat
One who resolves worldly problems with spiritual remedies
Bhagawān
God, the possessor of the six attributes of strength, fame, knowledge, wealth, beauty and renunciation
Bhagirathi
Another Name of the Holy river Ganga, named after Bhagiratha because of whose penance She descended onto the earth at Gangotri
Bhagwadārthakarma
A synonym of Karmayoga
Bhairav
Another Name of Deity Shiva, but especially an inferior manifestation or form
Bhajan
Devotional song
Bhakta
A devotee
Bhaktarāj
King of devotion, the title bestowed upon H. H. Bhaktaraj Maharaj (the Guru of H.H. Dr. Athavale), by His Guru, H.H. Anantanand Saish
Bhakti
Devotion
Bhaktibhāv
Spiritual emotion of devotion
Bhaktimārg
Path of devotion
Bhaktiyoga
Path of Devotion
Bhanḍārā
Festival of serving food as a spiritual ritual
Bharat
Hindustan, India
Bharatiya
1. One who has realised that spiritual evolution is the purpose of life and works towards that goal, 2. Indian
Bhāv
Spiritual emotion
Bhavānī
Goddess Pārvatī in a specific form
Bhāvārthadīpikā
A sublime commentary on the Shrīmadbhagwadgītā by Saint Dnyānēshwar
Bhāv-ūrjā
Energy of spiritual emotion
Bhog
Experiencing destiny, worldly pleasures
Bhūdēvī
Deity of the earth
Bhūgarbha-laharī
Waves emitting from core of the earth
Bhujangāsan
Lift the body from the waist upwards. Placing the waist between the palms, bend the body backwards above the waist. Keeping the gaze fixed forward, gradually move it backwards. Touch the thighs and legs to the ground. The backbone should be in a semi-circular shape.
Bhūlok
Earth region
Bhūmidēvatā
Deity of the earth
Bhūtbali
Sacrifice to spirits
Bhūtyadnya
One of the five Mahāyadnyās where food is offered to the universal being, that is the Brahman Principle or to the world of the ghost or demons
Bhuvarlok
Nether region
Bīja
1. Seed, 2. Original point, 3. The source, 4. The letter forming the essential part of the mantra of a Deity
Bījākshar / Bījamantra
An alphabet or group of alphabets generating spiritual energy
Bimba-pratibimba
Image and its reflection
Bimba-pratibimba nyāy
Subtle-law of action and reaction ?
Brahmā
Supreme God in the Hindu Trinity - Brahmā, Vishṇu amd Mahēsh
Brahmā
Deity Brahmā
Brahmachārī
Celibate
Brahmacharya
Celibacy
Brahmacharyāshram
The first among the four stages of life – the stage of celibacy
Brahmadnyān
Knowledge of Brahman
Brahmālankār
Ornaments from spiritual practice
Brahmalok
Abode of Deity Brahmā
Brāhmamuhūrt
An auspicious time at dawn between the fourth ghaṭikā from night and the second ghaṭikā before sunrise ideal for spiritual practice
Brahman
God in His aspect as the Creator of the universe
Brāhmaṇ
1. One who knows Brahman, 2. One who belongs to the first of the four varṇas (Classes), studies scriptures and imparts knowledge to the society
Brahmānand
Ultimate Bliss
Brāhmaṇ-bhojan
Offering meals to Brāhmaṇs
Brahmānḍa
Cosmos or universe
Brahmānḍa-manḍal
Cosmos
Brahmarākshas
A haughty, disdainful spirit of a Brāhmaṇ
Brahmarandhra
Opening in the spiritual energy system, located on the crown, in the subtle-body
Brahmaras
Nectar of Bliss (the experience of Brahman)
Brahmarshi
A Brahmarshi is the penultimate expert on religion and spiritual knowledge, a Sage endowed with the knowledge of Brahman. Below Him are the Maharshīs (Great Rushīs)
Brahmastithi
State of union with God
Brahmāstra
Weapon acquired by appeasing Deity Brahmā through penance
Brahmatēj
Radiance of a Brāhmaṇ
Brahmayadnya
Study of the Vēdās and performing tarpaṇ for the sake of Deities and Sages
Bruhatstotraratnākar
A Holy text
Buddhi-pramāṇyavādī
Rationalists, who want an intellectual explanation for everything
Buddhiyoga
Yoga of Intellect
Bukkā
Black powder which attracts the Deity's Principle, used in ritualistic worship
Chaitanya
Divine consciousness
Chaitanyāvasthā
State of experiencing Divine consciousness
Chaitra
First month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Chakra
1. Wheel, 2. Usually the word chakra is meant to denote a centre in the body through which the spiritual energy flows
Chakra-vyuha
Labyrinth of military array
Chāmunḍā
Destroyer form of Shrī Durgā, who killed the demons Chanḍa and Munḍa
Chanakya
A famous master of statecraft in ancient Bharat. He is believed to have lived in 4th century B.C. and was a great statesman and strategist.
Chānḍāl
1. A scavenger, 2. A wicked person
Chandan
Sandalwood
Chandranāḍī
The Moon channel, one of the main channels of the spiritual energy system located to the left of the body and carrying soothing energy
Chapātī
Bharatiya bread of wheat, Roti
Chārvāk
A Bharatiya philosopher who advocated that one should lead a luxurious life without worrying about the future, because once destroyed, the body will not be regenerated
Chaturang danḍāsan
Gradually extend one leg backwards, next to the other. Keep the knees straight. Balance the entire body on the palms and toes. The heel, waist and head should be in a straight line. Fix the gaze on the ground at a distance from the hands.
Chaturdashī
Fourteenth day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Chaturthī
Fourth day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Chāturvarṇa
The system of four classes
Chētanā
1. That aspect of Divine consciousness that governs the functioning of the mind and body, 2. Sentience
Chētanā-shakti
Sentient energy
Chidānand
Intellectual bliss, thought and joy together
Chintāmaṇi
A mythical gem capable of fulfilling any wish
Chit-shakti
The word ‘Chit’ means both, Absolute knowledge and Chaitanya and Shakti means Divine Energy. Hence, ‘Chit-shakti’ means Shakti which has Absolute Knowledge and Chaitanya.
Chitta
Subconscious mind
Chitta-shakti
Energy of the subconscious mind
Choul-karma
The ritual of keeping a tuft of hair on the rear of the head
Chuṛīdār
A Bharatiya attire worn by women
Cowrie
Shell of Cypraea moneta, used as currency in certain parts of the world in the earlier times
ḍafali
A hand-held drum made from the hide of an animal and shaped like a ring
Daiva
Destiny
Dakshiṇā
Offering in cash or kind, especially one given to a Brāhmaṇ after a ritual
Dakshiṇāyan
Southerly declination of the sun
ḍamarū
An hourglass shaped drum associated with Deity Shiva
Dān
1. An offering, 2. Donation,
Danḍawat
Offering obeisance by completely prostrating on the ground with stretched and folded hands facing the ground
Darbha
A type of grass used in rituals involving sacrificial fires and rituals for the departed souls such as shrāddha
Darshan
Sight, seeing, vision / viewing
Darshanārthī
One having darshan
Dāsbodha
A Holy text by Samarth Ramdas Swami
Dashamī
Tenth day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Dāsmārutī
Form of Māruti (Hanumān) as a servitor of His Master (Shrirām)
Dāsya
1. One of the aspects of Bhakti-sādhanā, 2. To render service with an attitude of being a servitor of God
Dāsya-bhakti
Devotion unto God as a servitor
Datta Jayantī
The full moon day of the month of Mārgashīrsha according to Hindu lunar almanac, the day is celebrated as the birthday of Deity Datta
Deepmālā
1. An array of lamps,
Dēha
1. The body, 2. Spiritually there are four types of bodies : (a). Sthūla-dēha or the physical body, (b). Sūkshma-dēha or the mental body, (c). Kāraṇa-dēha or the causal body or intellect, (d). Mahākāraṇa-dēha or the supracausal body or subtle ego.
dēha mandal
All the koshās
Dēhabuddhi
Body-awareness
Dēha-tyāg
Renouncing the body
Dēshkāl
Place and time
Dēv
Deity
Dēvālay
Temple
Dēvarushi
Sage of the Deities, that is, Sage Nārad, son of Deity Brahmā
Dēvatā
Male / Female Deity
Dēvī
Female Deity
Dēvruṇa
Debt unto the Deities
Dēvyadnya
Perpetual maintenance of the sacred fire
Dhananjay-vāyu
One of the five sub-vital energies (Upa-prāṇas) which controls decomposition after death
Dhanwantari
An Incarnation of Shrīvishṇu, physician of Gods, and God of Ayurvēdic medicines.
Dhāraṇā
Depending upon usage - concentration, conception, perception, retentive power, understanding, impression
Dharma
Righteousness, Religion
Dharmācharaṇ
Abiding by Dharma (Righteousness) in daily life
Dharmadān
Teaching on Dharma
Dharmadnyān
Knowledge on Dharma
Dharmadrohi
1. One who opposes Dharma, 2. A heretic, 3. Traitor to Dharma
Dharma-granth
Holy scriptures
Dharmajāgruti
Awakening about Dharma
Dharma-kartavya
Duty as defined by Dharma
Dharmakārya
Service unto Dharma
Dharmapālan
Abiding by Dharma
Dharmaprasār
Propagation of Dharma
Dharmarāj
A title given to the eldest Pandav : Yudhishthir
Dharmarājya
Kingdom based on Dharma
Dharmasatsang
Spiritual discourse to impart scientific education on various subjects like Dharma, spiritual science, spiritual practice, religious rituals etc.
Dharmashāstra
A genre of Sanskrut Holy texts and refers to the shāstra or the science pertaining to Hindu Dharma
Dharma-yuddha
Battle for Dharma
Dhoop
Frankincense
Dhotī
A rectangular piece of unstitched cloth, usually around 4-5 metres long, wrapped around the waist and the legs and knotted at the waist by Hindus
dhusar smoky
Dhūtavastra
Any clean and washed article of clothing
Dnyān
1. Knowledge, 2. Spiritual knowledge
Dnyānēshwar
From 1275 to 1297, foremost amongst poet Saints of Maharashtra (a state in Bharat). Dnyānēshwarī, His commentary in verse form on the Shrīmadbhagawadgītā, is acknowledged as one of the world's greatest spiritual works.
Dnyānī
1. Knowledgeable, 2. Wise, 3. A seeker possessing spiritual knowledge, that is, one who is self-realised, 4. A scholar
dnyānottar kārya Mission after attaining self-realisation
Dnyān-sanchhinna-sanshay
One whose doubts are entirely cleared because of possessing knowledge about the Truth
Dnyān-shakti
Energy of knowledge
Dnyānyoga
Path of Knowledge
Durāgraha
Obstinate persistence for an immoral cause
Durgā
The Primal Mother, Goddess Pārvatī – wife of Deity Shiva
Durvā
A fragrant grass used in the ritualistic worship of Shrī Gaṇēsh
Dvait
1. Duality 2. In Spirituality - duality between God and the self
Dwādashī
Twelfth day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Dwāparyug
The third Era in the cycle of four Eras since the origin of the universe
Dwēsh
Hatred
Dwij
One whose upanayan sanskār or the thread ceremony has been performed
Dwitīyā
Second day in the Hindu lunar fortnight
Dyuti
Light
Ēkādashī
The eleventh day of the waxing or the waning moon
ēkānt-pūjā
Ritualistic worship performed in solitude
ēkāratī
Oil or ghee lamp with a single wick
Eknath
Saint from Paithan, Maharashtra, Bharat, who lived in the period 1533 and 1599
ēkpād
prasarṇāsan Gradually bending at the knees, extend one leg backwards. Touch the palms to the ground. Bend the other leg at the knee and place the foot between the palms. Rest the chest on the thigh and fix the gaze upwards.
Gaṇapati
1. Bestower of knowledge, 2. The Deity that wards off all obstacles and one who is able to transform the nādabhāshā (Language of sound and spoken by human beings) into prakāshabhāshā (Language of light and spoken by Deities) and vice versa
Gaṇapati-Atharvashīrsha / Gaṇapatyatharvashīrsha
Sanskrut prayer to Shrī Gaṇēsh, seeking His protection and blessings
Gaṇapati-pūjan
Worshipping Shrī Gaṇapati
Gaṇās
Assistants of Deities
Gandha
Smell, odour, sandalwood paste
Gandha-akshatā
Akshatā (Unbroken rice grains) smeared with gandha (Sandalwood paste)
Gandha-kaṇa
Scented particles
Gandharva
Celestial musician, in the category of inferior Deities
Gaṇēsh Chaturthī
Birth of Shrī Gaṇēsh according to the Hindu lunar almanac on Bhādrapad Shukla Chaturthī, that is, the fourth day of the bright fortnight of Bhādrapad
Gaṇēsh-panchāyatan
A group of five Deities in which Shrī Gaṇēsh is the chief Deity
Ganga
A Holy Bharatiya river emerging from the crown of Deity Shiva
Gangotri
The one which provides a flow of sāttvik waves laden with the Shiva Principle; also the origin of River Ganga
Gaṇik
Slave
Gaṇika
Courtesan, maid
Garbā
A dance form, prevalent in Gujarat, played during Navarātrī
Garbhādhān
A ritual performed before conception for the purpose of a good progeny
Garbhāgār
Anteroom
Garbha-gruha / gābhārā
Sanctum sanctorum of a temple
Garuḍa-dhwaj
Flag with emblem of Garuḍa (Eagle), Shrīvishṇu's Divine carrier, hoisted on a temple
Gāyatrī-mantra
A sacred verse from the Vēdās, to be recited mentally by a Brāhmaṇ during the daily ritual of sandhyā , a mantra of the Sun Deity, hence related to the Tējtattva
Ghāgar phunkaṇē
Blowing air in the earthen pot while standing, dancing in front of ‘Mahālakshmī’, is considered part of worship and is specific to Maharashtra, Bharat
Ghāgarā
A type of parakar with lot of pleats to be worn as outer garment
Ghaṭikā
An ancient Bharatiya measure of time, 1 ghaṭikā = 24 minutes
Ghee
Clarified butter
Gomūtra
Urine of a cow of Bharatiya breed
Gondhal
1. ‘Gondhal’ is the dramatic narration of mythical stories, praise of heroes or narration of folk legends. All these forms part of a ritual dedicated to different divinities. This Marathi folk theatre in the form of worship is performed exclusively by a group of men as part of rituals after ceremonies like marriage specific to Maharashtra, Bharat, 2. In the mental state of confusion
Gondhali
Worshippers who perform the ritual of Gondhal
Gopa
Cowherd
Gopī / gopikā
Female cowherd
Gopī-bhāv
Spiritual emotion akin to that of the gopīs who were supreme devotees of Shrīkrushṇa
Gopīchandan
1. Soil from Dwarka, 2. White clay
Gotra
Lineage
Grāmadēvatā
Village Deity, the protector of residents of that village
Granth
Holy text
Gruhasthāshram
The second among the four stages of life, namely, the stage of a married householder
Guṇa
1. Component (The three spiritual components in the universe are Sattva, Raja and Tama), 2. Quality, virtue
Guṇatīt
Beyond the three components of Sattva, Raja and Tama
Gurav
A priest in the Shiva temple
Guru
1. Spiritual master, 2. Spiritual preceptor, 3. Name of Bruhaspati (Jupiter)
Guru’s Ashram
Guru’s hermitage
Gurudhāraṇā
The retentive power of the Guru (Likely to change with usage)
Gurukrupā
Grace of the Guru
Gurukrupāyoga
The Path of Guru's grace, which incorporates 8 steps
Gurukul
A residential school system prevalent in ancient Bharat, where teaching on all areas of life, including spiritual practice was done by Gurus or Sages
Gurumantra
The mantra given by a Guru upon initiation
Gurupourṇimā
Full moon day of the month of Āshāḍha, also called Vyās Pourṇima after Sage Vyās who is considered ādya, meaning the first Guru
Guru-prāpti
Being blessed with a Guru
Gurupūjan
Ritualistic worship of the Guru
Gurutattva
Guru Principle, unmanifest form of the Guru (God) who guides seekers
Gurutvākarshan
Gravitational force
Haḍal
Female goblin
Haldī
Turmeric
Haldī-kumkum
Turmeric powder-vermillion powder
Hansavarṇa
Those Liberated
Hanumān
Deity Hanumān
Hanumān Jayantī
Birthday of Hanumān according to the Hindu lunar almanac
Har
Another Name of Deity Shiva
Harī
Another Name of Shrīvishṇu
Harī Om Tat Sat
Sacred words by which God is often invoked
Harī-Har
‘Vishṇu-Shiva’, a particular form of Deity consisting of Vishṇu and Shiva, conjoined
Haṭhayoga
Path of Deliberate Rigour, adopted to discipline the body and mind to enhance their tolerance
Haṭhayogī
A practitioner of Haṭhayoga
Havan
Offering of oblations in the fire
Hindi
National language of Bharat
Hindu
In Sanskrut, the word Hindu is broken up as hin + du. 'Hin' means to remove and 'du' means darkness. In other words, anyone who makes efforts to remove the darkness of spiritual ignorance (that is, a seeker), is a Hindu.
Hindu māvalās
A Marāthi term of endearment used for the warrior Marathas who were supporters of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Hindu Panchāng
Hindu almanac, based on the lunar cycle
Hiraṇyagarbha
The 'Golden womb' poetically rendered as the source of the creation of the universe
Hom
Fire-sacrifice performed to appease Deities
Ichhā
Desire, will
Ichhā-shakti
Energy of will
Iḍā
The Moon channel, one of the main channels of the spiritual energy system located to the left of the body and carrying soothing energy
Ikshawāku
The first king of the Sun dynasty
Indra
King of Deities
Ishṭadēvatā
1. Benevolent Deity, 2. The Deity that one feels closest to
Īshwar
God
Īshwar-anugraha
God’s grace
Īshwarēchhā
God's wish
Jagadambā
Mother of the universe, Name of Dēvī
Jagannāth
God of the universe
Jāgrut Dēvālay
Temple where the divinity in the Idol is awakened; for example, the Devālays at the site of the twelve Jyotirlingās
Jāgrut-sthān
Area where the divinity in the Deity is in an 'awakened' state
Jai
Hail
Jaighosh
Proclamation, hailing
Jaladēvatā
Deity of water
Janaka-dhāraṇā
Which is dissolving and flowing in nature
Janalok
Fifth of the seven subtle higher regions of the universe
Janārdan
Another Name of Shrīvishṇu
Janēu, jānavē
Sacred thread
Janma-Hindu
Hindu by birth
Janmāshṭamī
Birthday of Shrīkrushṇa according to the Hindu lunar almanac
Japa
Chanting
Japamālā
A string of beads used to keep a count of the chanting
Jaṭharāgni
gastric heat , Subtle-fire in the stomach
Jātkarma
A ritual at birth
Jāval
The ritual of the first haircut
Jīva
Embodied soul
Jīvabhāv
Emotion of a jīva
Jīvadashā
State of the embodied soul
Jīvanmukta
Liberated when still embodied
Jīvātmā
Embodied soul undertaking spiritual practice
Jyēshṭha
1. Elder, 2. Third month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Jyotirlinga
Powerful Divine lingās (Sacred symbols of Deity Shiva) situated at 12 places in Bharat
Kailāsh
Heavenly abode of Deity Shiva
Kājal
Collyrium, soot (An ointment prepared from soot obtained by burning of lamp and processed by adding substances like camphor, used for eyes. Has both cosmetic and medicinal value.)
Kāl
Time
Kālī
Destroyer form of Shrī Durgādēvī
Kaliyug
Era of strife
Kalkī
The tenth Incarnation of Shrīvishṇu in the form of a warrior, which is expected to appear at the end of Kaliyug
kalpa
Time immemorial measured in cycles, comprises of four yugs, it is one day and night for Deity Brahmā
Kalpataru
Wish-fulfilling tree
Kāma
Desire or sexual desire, third pursuit of life
Kāmadhēnu
Divine wish-fulfilling cow
Kamanḍalu
Water pot generally used by Ascetics
Kāmashāstra
Science underlying sexual desire
Kāmasūtra
A Holy text on the art of love-making
Kāmya-karma
Karma performed with expectation of fruit
Kāmyasnān
A bath under religious acts, with an intention of fulfilling some desire
Kanṭhamaṇi
A bead woven in a thread, worn around neck at the throat level
Kapha
Phlegm
Karadarshan
Morning ritual of looking with concentration at the palms before getting out of the bed
kāraṇdēha
Causal body
Karma
1. An act, 2. Action which gives rise to destiny
Karmakānḍa
Spiritual practice of rites, rituals and observances performed at the physical level
Karmaphala
Fruit of a karma
Karmaphalanyāy
Cause and effect of our karma
Karma-sanyās
Renunciation of karma
Karmayoga
Path of Action
Karṇī
Black magic
Karpūr-āratī
Camphor-āratī
Kartā
Doer
Kārtik
Eighth month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Kārtikēya
Elder brother of Shrī Gaṇēsh, son of Deity Shiva and Pārvatī
Kēdārnāth
Another Name of Deity Shiva; also a place of pilgrimage for Hindus
Kētu
Pluto
Kēvaḍā
Screwpine
Khaḍag
A weapon which is thorny and broad at one end and narrow at the other
Khādī
Hand-woven cotton cloth
Khaṇa
A blouse piece bordered with silver or gold threadwork offered to the Goddess or a married lady
Kheer
A sweet made from milk and rice / wheat
Khus
Root of Andropogon muricatus grass; Vertiveria zizaniodies
Kinnar
A celestial musician having a face of horse, physiological male who adopts a feminine gender identity.
Kīrtan
1. Narration of the glory of God through stories, punctuated with devotional songs, 2. Devotional discourses
Kīrtankār
One who performs kīrtans
Ko-ham
Who am I ?'
Kosha
A sheath or covering : There are the five koshās, as described by the Vēdānt philosophy
Kourav
The hundred sons of Kuru, and cousins of the Pandavs
Kriyā
Physical performance of a deed
Kriyamāṇa-karma
Wilful actions, that is, according to one's own free will
Kriyā-shakti
Energy of action
Krupā
Grace, mercy, favour, love, compassion, forgiveness, blessings (Use appropriately)
Krushṇa
The eighth Incarnation of Shrīvishṇu
Krushṇa-leelā
Divine play of Shrīkrushṇa
Krutadnyatā-bhāv
Spiritual emotion of gratitude
Kruti
1. Deed, 2. Method or an act of performing karma
Kshātrabhāv
Spiritual emotion of a warrior
Kshātradharma
sādhanā Spiritual practice of protecting seekers and destroying evildoers
Kshātrageet
Songs which inspire the warrior attitude in seekers
Kshātratēj
Radiance of a Kshatriya
Kshātraveer
A seeker who undertakes Kshātradharma sādhanā – the spiritual practice of protecting seekers and destroying evildoers
Kshātravrutti
1. Attitude of a warrior, 2. Fighting spirit
Kshatriya
One who belongs to the second of the four varnās (Classes), namely the warrior class
Kshētrapāladēvatā
Guardian Deities of territories
Kshudradēvatā
Subordinate Deity, inferior Deity
Kubēr
Deity of treasury
Kula
1. Family, 2. Mūlādhār-chakra, the first centre in the spiritual energy system (Kunḍalini)
Kulāchār
1. Family traditions, 2. Religious rituals that have been followed over generations in a family
Kuladēvatā
Family Deity
Kuladharma
Duties of the family, passed on from one generation to the next, to be followed religiously
Kumār
Boy or young man
Kumārī / kumārikā
A young girl, an unmarried girl, a virgin; when the reference is to a girl whose pūjā is to be performed as a part of a ritual she is necessarily a virgin who has not attained puberty. Represented as 'Ms.'
Kumārikā-pūjān
Ritualistic worship of a kumārikā
Kumbhak
Stage of holding the breath during Prāṇāyam (Controlled breathing)
Kumkumārchan
A ritual of offering saffron to a Dēvī (Goddess)
Kunḍalinī
Dormant spiritual energy in the subtle-body. It is coiled like a serpent and consists of one central channel, the Sushumnānāḍī and two channels on its sides, Iḍā/Chandranāḍī on the left and Pingalā/Sūryanāḍī on the right with six centres (Chakrās) namely Mūlādhār, Swādhishṭhān, Maṇipur, Anāhat, Vishuddha and Ādnyā
Kunḍalinīyoga
Path of activation of spiritual energy
Kurtā-pyjāmā
Long knee-length top and loose pants; a Bharatiya dress
Laghurudra
Eleven Ekādashīs amount to one Laghurudra
laharī
1. A group of subtler-waves of the Principles of Deities, 2. Waves
Lakshmī
1. Deity of wealth, fortune, prosperity, 2. Divine Energy of Shrīvishṇu, worshipped as the bestower of opulence
Leelā
Divine play
Linga-dēha
Subtle-body
Lok
Region (meaning, a subtle region)
Loksangraha
Integration, unification of people
Madarthakarma
A synonym of Karmayoga
Mādhukari
Cooked food given as alms
Madhyamā
A mode of speech where chanting occurs automatically. It is so named as it is the intermediate stage between Vaikhari and Pashyantī modes of speech
Mādhyandin or mādhyānhakāl
Noon
Māgha
Eleventh month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Mahābhāg
Divine reproductive organs
Mahābhārat
A Hindu scripture written by Sage Vyās, which depicts the epic battle between the Pandavs who always abided by Dharma and the Kouravs, who rode on the path of adharma
Mahādēv
Another Name of Deity Shiva
Mahākāraṇdēha
Supracausal body
Mahālung
Citron fruit
Mahāmārg
Divine Path, highway
Mahāmrutyunjay
mantra A mantra from the Rugvēda, invoking Deity Shiva, recited to avert death
Mahant
A religiously superior person, the chief of a monastery
Mahāprasād
Prasād served in the form of a meal, normally after a major ritualistic worship
Mahārāj
Sovereign, a respectful way of addressing religious scholars, Saints, kings etc. in Bharat
Maharlok
The fourth higher subtle region of the universe
Maharshi
Great Seer or Rushi
Mahārudra
Eleven Laghurudrās amount to one Mahārudra
Mahā-shūnyāvasthā
Super-zero state
Mahat
Large
Mahātattva
The Great Principle
Mahātmā
Great soul
Mahāveer
Mighty warrior
Mahāyoni
Divine birth passage
Mahēsh
Another Name of Deity Shiva
Makarsankrāntī
A festival observed on 15th January each year; the date changes every eighty years
Mālā
Rosary
Manaha-shakti
Energy of the mind
Manan
1. Contemplation, 2. Meditation
Manḍal
Circle or protective sheath
Manḍap-dēvatā
Deity of the manḍap / panḍal
Manḍap-dēvatā-pratishthā
Installation of the Deity of manḍap / panḍal
Mangalsūtra
A typical ornament worn by a married Hindu woman; it is a symbol of marriage and worn by the woman until her husband's death
Māng-tikā
An ornament worn on the forehead
Maṇipur-chakra
Third chakra (Centre) in the spiritual energy system located in the region of the navel in the subtle-body
Manodēha
Mental body
Manomay-kosha
Mental sheath, one of the five sheaths as described by the Vēdānta philosophy
Manonmanī
The superconscious state according to Shrī Shankaracharya
Mantra
A syllable, word or words representing spiritual reality or an aspect of God uttered to protect oneself or to achieve a specific goal
Incantation when being recited by a māntrik
Mantrapushpānjali
The act of offering flowers while reciting specific mantrās
Mantravidyā
Knowledge of mantrās
Mantrayoga
Self-realisation through chanting of mantrās
Māntrik
1. A practitioner of mantra, 2. A subtle-sorcerer
Manu
A great legislator and a Saint, the son of Brahmā or personification of Brahmā Himself, He set laws for Hindus through His Holy text, the Manusmruti
Manusmruti
A Hindu Holy text written by Sage Manu underlining the code of conduct
Mārak
Destroyer (Antonym : tārak - saviour)
Mārak-shakti
Destroyer energy
Mārgshīrsha
Ninth month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Māruti
Hanumān, Son of Pavan – Deity of the wind
Māruti-stotra
Spiritual verse in Marathi in praise of Hanumān
Mātrukā
A type of female Deity; twenty-seven in all
Mātrukāpūjan
Worship of the Mātrukā Deities
Māyā
The Great Illusion
Māyāvi
māntrik Illusory, deceitful, unreal, untrue
Mēdhā
Spiritual intellect or subtlest state of intellect
Meenākshī
Principle of multiplication of Creation. One of the five Principle Deities (Panchadēvatā).
Mimānsāshāstra
Science of Analysis
Modak
Special sweet balls made of jaggery and coconut offered to Shrī Gaṇapati as Naivēdya
Moksha
Final Liberation
Mokshapurīs
Places that confer Moksha
Moun
1. A state of being quite, silence, 2. Taciturnity, silence
Mounyoga
Self-realisation through silence, that is, control over the speech, body and finally the mind
Mrutāvasthā
Corpse-like state
Mrutyunjay
One who has conquered death
Mudrā
1. A posture used for directing the flow of spiritual energy into the Sushumnānāḍī
Muhūrt
Auspicious time
Mukti
Salvation or Liberation (from the bondage of birth and death)
Mūlādhār-chakra
First chakra (Centre) in the spiritual energy system located in the region between the anus and the base of the genitals in the subtle-body
Mūl-mantra
The primal mantra
Mumukshū
A seeker with intense desire for attaining God-realisation
Mumukshūtva
Desire for God-realisation
Munḍan
Shaving off the head
Mutt, maṭh, muṭh
1. A religious educational institute, 2. A residence of Ascetics
Nādabrahma
Brahman Principle in the sound
Nāda-shakti
Sound energy
Nādayoga
Meditation on the inner subtle sound, as a means to God-realisation
Nāḍī
Energy channel
Nāḍī-bandha
Blocking the flow of energy through a nāḍī (Energy channel) by performing a specific posture
Naishkarmya
Detachment from karma
Naivēdya
Food offered to the Deity as part of ritualistic worship
Nakshatrās
Lunar asterisms
Nāmabrahma
Concept that the God's Name itself is God
Nāmadhārak
One who chants the Name
Nāmadhun
Chanting to the tune of devotional music
Namaha
I bow unto you
Nāmajapa
Chanting, chanting the Name of the Deity
Nāmakaraṇa
Naming ceremony
Namaskār-mudrā
Both the hands joined and held at the level of the Ānāhat-chakra, but a little away from the body
Nāmasmaraṇa
Chanting
Namastē (Namaskār)
A respectful greeting that is accompanied by a gesture of joining the palms with the fingertips pointing upwards and held close to the chest
Nārad sūtra
Sūtra written by Sage Nārad on the qualities of Bhakti (Devotion) and Bhaktiyoga
Nāradprakīrṇak
A Holy text
Nāradpurāṇa
A Hindu mythological scripture composed by Sage Nārad
Nārāyaṇa
Another Name of Shrīvishṇu
Nārāyaṇa Nāgbali
A rite to provide momentum to the ancestor’s souls
Natha
Nose ring
Nātha
sect A sect in Hindu Dharma, in which the Guru is accorded a higher status than God Himself. The Yogīs of this sect consider Deity Shiva as the foremost Guru and Matsyēndra, a form of Shrīvishṇu, as His first disciple
Navarātra
The period of nine continuous days and nights, particularly the period between Pratipadā (First day) and Navamī (Ninth day) of the bright half of the month of Chaitra and Āshwin, devoted to worship of Shrī Durgādēvī
Neem
Azadirachta Indica - A tree with bitter fruits and leaves and having medicinal properties
Nēmdharma
Discipline
Nijdhyās
Intense yearning
Nirahankārī
Egoless
Nirākār
Without form
Nirānand
Lacking in Bliss
Nirānjan
A five-petalled metal lamp-dish with an attached conical stand to be set before an Idol
Nirbīj (or Nirvikalp)
Samādhi The highest superconscious state, the state of advait (Non-duality)
Nirguṇ
Non-materialised
Nirmālya
Withered flowers and leaves, which have been offered earlier to a Deity
Nirukta
Dictionary of difficult words in Vēdās
Nishkām
Without expectations
Nishkām Karmayogī
Selfless seeker practising Karmayoga
Nishkām-bhakti / Nishkām-sādhanā
Spiritual practice performed without expectations of worldly gains
Nishkām-bhāv
Spiritual emotion devoid of expectation
Nishkām-prēmī
Unconditional lover
Nīti
1. Morality, 2. Ethics
Nītishāstra
1. Subject dealing with moral values 2. Code of ethics
Nītivettā
Scholars of nīti
Nitya-naimittīk-karma
Day-to-day and occasional karma
Nivrutti
Cessation of participation in worldly affairs
Niyat
Fixed, determined, definite
Nīyati
Fate
Niyat-karma
Daily work
Nyāyashāstra
Law
oṭī
(in Marathi) Ritual of offering a sāṛī and/or a blouse piece to a Goddess or to a married lady, a ritual in Maharashtra (Bharat)
ovalē
One that is in a general state which is not absolutely pure. Generally used with sovale like sovalē -ovalē
Palāsh
Flame tree
Palī
(in Marathi) An offering spoon used in ritualistic worship
Pallū
Free end of a sāṛī, normally worn over the shoulder
Panchā
A smaller hand-woven version of dhotī
Pancha-ārati
Lamp with five wicks
Panchadēvatā
The five Principal Deities – Prajāpati, Brahmā, Shiva, Shrīvishṇu and Meenākshī
Panchadnyānēndriya
Five subtle sense organs
Panchagavya
A mixture of cow’s milk, curd, ghee, cow’s urine and cow dung
Panchakarmēndriya
Five subtle motor organs
Panchakhādya
Dish prepared out of five different substances, preferably dry fruits
Panchākshar
Having five letters, according to the Sanskrut alphabet
Panchamahāsatīs
Five great chaste women
Panchamahāyadnya
Five great sacrificial fires
Panchamī
Fifth day of either Hindu lunar half-month
Panchāmrut
A mixture of milk, curd, honey, sugar and pure ghee
Panchāng
Hindu almanac
Panchapātri
Vessel used for worship
Panchaprāṇ
Five vital energies
Panchaprāṇātmak ūrjā
Energy in the form of five vital Principles
Panchasūnā
Inadvertent killing of living organisms during the course of earning a livelihood is referred to as ‘panchasūnā’ in the scriptures
Panchatattva or Panchamahābhūtās
The five Cosmic Principles – Pruthvī, Āpa, Tēj, Vāyu and Ākāsh
Panchavaṭi
1. Garden of five sacred trees, 2. Garden where Sītā had stayed
Panchopachārpūjā
Ritualistic worship involving five steps
Pandav
Five sons of King Pandu – Yudhisthir, Bhim, Arjun, Nakul, Sahadev
Panḍit
A Scholar
Pānḍurang
Another Name of Shrī Vitṭhal, an Incarnation of Shrīvishṇu
Pāṇini
A great Bharatiya Seer, The Sage who wrote the authoritative guide to Sanskrut grammar
Pāp
1. Sin, 2. Demerit
Parā
Mode of speech of a seer where one experiences non-duality with the Name
Parābhakti
Most superior form of devotion
Parabrahman
Supreme God, according to the Vēdānt philosophy
Parakar
Petticoat from waist to ankle used under the sāṛ̣ī
Paramātmā
Supreme Soul / God
Paramēshwar
Supreme God
Parāshakti
Supreme Energy
Parashurām
Sixth Incarnation of Shrīvishṇu, who was a perfect blend of Brahmatēj and Kshātratēj
Parātpar
Guru Supreme Guru, Guru of the highest (90% to 100%) spiritual level
Pārāyaṇa
Periodic, repeated reading of a Holy text
Parēchhā
Other's wish
Pariṇaya
A state where a jīva is able to love God is termed as pariṇaya. In this state, the jīva’s love is sakām (With expectations).
Parvakāl
Synonym for sandhikāl
Pārvatī
Divine Energy and consort of Deity Shiva
Pāsh
A noose which is a weapon of Shrī Gaṇēsh
Pashyantī
Chanting the Name of God in Pashyantī mode of speech is akin to that of Seers who have knowledge of the past, present and future. This mode of chanting occurs after attaining a spiritual level of 70%
Pātāl
Hell region
Pavitraks
Subtle most particles containing Chaitanya (Divine consciousness)
Pāyas
A sweet made out of milk and rice
Peeṭhas
Seats of worship / faith
Phālgun
Twelfth or last month in Hindu lunar almanac
Pinḍa
1. Subtle-body, 2. The human body as a replica of the macrocosm
Pinḍa-dān
Offering rice balls during shrāddha ritual
Pinḍī
Deity Shiva’s sacred symbol
Pingalā
Sun channel
Pīpal
Bo tree
Pishāch
Spirit of a deceased person
Pitāmbar
Yellow silk dhotī
Pitru-paksha
The dark fortnight in the Hindu almanac month of Bhādrapad, when some rituals are performed for the ancestors
Pitruruṇa
Debt unto the ancestors
Pitrushāhī
Paternal governance - as by the head of a joint family
Pitru-yadnya
Ritual for the departed ancestors
Pourṇimā
Last day of the Shuklapaksha (Bright fortnight) of Hindu lunar fortnight, full-moon day
Poush
Tenth month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Pradakshiṇā
Circumambulation
Prādnyā-shakti
Latent energy of pure intellect
Pradosh
The period of 72 minutes (3 ghaṭikās) before sunset on the 13th day of the bright and dark fortnight of every Hindu lunar month
Prajāpati
Principle of Creationar month
kāshabhāshā
Language of lightar month
kaṭdin
Day of public acclamationar month
kop
Pr>kop of Deities is wrath, Pr>kop of nature is fury
Pr>kruti
Māyā or Great Illusion according to the Sānkhya philosophy / Primeval Nature according to the Vēdānt philosophy / Basic nature or personality. It is the primeval nature created by Supreme Brahman, comprising of the three basic components, that is, Triguṇās
Pr>kruti-pravruttī
Inherent nature or propensity
Pr>lay
Dissolution of the universe
Pramān
A Certification, proof
Prāṇa
One of the five vital energies involved in the activity of inhalation
Prāṇadān
Saving a life
Prāṇa-dēha
Vital body
Prāṇamay-kosha
Vital energy sheath
Prāṇapratishṭhā
Consecration
Prāṇa-shakti
Vital energy (Additional information : The vital life sustaining energy of both the individual body and the universe.)
Praṇav
Om
Prāṇa-vāyu
1. One of the five vital energies, 2. Oxygen
Prāṇāyām
1. Regulation of breath and control of the body’s vital energies, 2. A discipline of Yoga
Prārabdha-karma
Karma which is to be undergone in a particular birth
Prārthanā
Prayer
Prasād
Holy sacrament
Prasthāntrayi
Essence of the Vēdās
Prātaha-kāl
Dawn
Prātaha-sandhyopāsanā
Ritual of sandhyā performed in the morning
Prātar-vaishvadēv
Daily oblation to God performed at dawn, through the Fire Deity, before the meals
Pr>tipadā
First day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Pr>tyāhār
To retreat (In Yoga - withdrawal of the sense organs from the sense objects)
Pravachan
Spiritual discourse
Pravrutti
Active in worldly life (opposite of nivrutti), inclined towards participation in worldly affairs
Prēm / prēmbhāv
Love
Prīti
Unconditional love, spiritual love devoid of expectations
Pruthvitattva
Absolute Earth Principle
Pūjā
Ritualistic worship
Punsāvan
A ritual performed to beget a son
Puṇyāhavāchan
Recitation of specific mantrās for success of a ceremony
Pūrak
1. Deep inhalation, 2. Complementary
Puraḷ
Rashes, pimple, small swelling, pustule
Puraṇ (in Marathi)
A sweet made from boiled gram lentil and jaggery
Purāṇa
The eighteen sacred Holy texts compiled by Sage Vyās
Purashcharaṇ
Repeated chanting
Pūrī
A type of fried, unleavened Bharatiya bread
Purṇapada
Absoluteness
Purṇatva
Awareness of the Absoluteness
Purṇāvatār
Absolute Incarnation
Purush
Absolute Being
Purushārtha
Basic pursuits of life
Purushtatva
God Principle
Rāhu
Neptune
Raja
1. One of the three basic components in the universe, signified by activity, passion
Rājarshi
1. A royal Sage, 2. One who adopts a Sage's way of life despite being a king
Rājasik
Raja-predominant
Rājasūya
Yadnya Yadnya to be performed by a paramount ruler
Rājayoga
Path of God-realisation, by following eight steps of spiritual practice described by Sage Patanjali
Rajoguṇa
Raja component (Only for the dictionary)
Raktachandan
Red sandalwood
Rāmāyaṇ
A great Hindu Holy epic written by Sage Valmiki, that depicts the history and life of Shrīrām
Rāmnavamī
Navamī is the ninth day of bright fortnight of the month of Chaitra, also the birthday of Shrīrām
Rāmrājya
Rule of Shrīrām, which also means the rule of righteousness
Rāmrakshā-stotra
A hymn in Sanskrut praising Shrīrām, and seeking His protection
Rangolī
Holy designs made on the ground from white crushed powder
Rēchak
Long exhalation
Riddhi
Wealth, prosperity
Rudra
Rudra (Deity Shiva) is supposed to have sprung from Brahmā’s forehead and to have afterwards separated into half male and half female, the former portion again separating into 11 Rudrās
Rudragaṇās
Attendants of Rudra
Rudrāksha
Seeds obtained from the rudrāksha tree found in the Him>layas, associated with Deity Shiva
Rudrāksha-mālā
A rosary made with rudrāksha seeds
Rugvēda
First of the four most sacred Hindu scriptures
Rukmiṇi
Consort or Divine Energy of Shrīkrushṇa
Rushi
Sage
Sabhāmandap
Hall in a temple
Sadēha-mukti
Liberation during embodiment
Sadguru
A spiritual master or Guru at a spiritual level of at least 85%
Sādhak
Seeker
Sādhanā
Spiritual practice
Sādhu
Ascetic
Saguṇ
Materialised
Sahajabhāv
Being at a God-realised level at all times
Sahajāvasthā, sahajastithī
Natural state of communion with God
Sahajayoga
Natural state of communion with God
Sahasrār-chakra
Notional opening situated at the crown of the head, which leads to realisation of Brahman and Shiv
Sahastranām
A thousand Names
Sakām
With expectations
Sakām sādhanā
Spiritual practice performed with expectations of worldly gains
Sakhā
Friend
Sakhya
Friendship
Sākshātkār
1. Enlightenment, 2. Self-realisation
Sakshibhāv
Spiritual emotion of being in an observer state
Salwār
Legwear in a chuṛīdār
Samādhi
1. A superconscious state of meditative union with the Absolute God Principle, 2. A tomb
Samaī (in Marathi)
A metal lamp on a pedestal with several wicks (kept near Idols of Deities)
Samashṭi
For the sake of the society
Samashṭi sādhanā
Spiritual practice for the spread of Spirituality
Samatvayoga
A synonym of Karmayoga
Samhitā Holy
texts or verses systematically arranged in the form of poetic verses
Sampatkāl
Favourable time or Era
Sampuṭ
Sampuṭ are some specific words used in a mantra. These can be used at the start, middle or end of the mantra
Samyak
Absolute
Sānandāvasthā
Super-conscious state described by Sage Patanjalī
Sanatan
1. Eternal, 2. That which is always new, full of Chaitanya (Divine consciousness), 3. That which never ages
Sanatan Dharma
God’s quality itself is Dharma. Codes of Dharma of God cannot vary; ultimately there is only one Code of Dharma, and that is the Sanatan Dharma. It is eternal, without a beginning or an end.
Sanatkumār
Celestial Sages
Sanchit
The accumulated give-and-take-account, which is created as a result of one's wilful karma
Sandhikāl
Transition period
Sandhyā
Ritualistic worship of the Sun Deity to be performed daily at sunrise, noon and sunset by all those whose thread ceremony is performed. It is accompanied by chanting of the Gāyatrī mantra and meditation.
Sankalpa
Resolve or intent
Sankalpa-shakti
Energy of resolve
Sānkhya
One of the six schools of Bharatiya philosophy
Sankhyāshāstra
Science of numerology
Sānkhyayoga
Yoga of Knowledge
Sanskār
Subconscious impression; Vēdic rituals to create subconscious impressions
Sanskār-kēndra
Impression centre
Sanskrut
An ancient Bharatiya language of Divine discourse. This is also considered to be the language of the Gods
Sanstha
Organisation
sanyāsāshram
The last among the four stages of life, namely, the stage of a renunciant
Saptachiranjīv
Seven eternal souls
Saptadēvatā
The seven Deities – Shrī Gaṇesh, Shiva, Shrīrām, Hanumān, Datta, Shrī Durgā and Shrīkrushṇa
Saptalok
Seven higher cosmic regions
Saptapadi
Act of the groom of taking the bride over seven heaps of rice made on the northern side of the sacrificial fire
Saraswatī
Divine Energy of Deity Brahmā, Goddess of learning, speech and eloquence
Sāṛī
A traditional attire of Bharatiya women
Sāshṭāng namaskār
Paying obeisance prostrating, using eight parts of the body namely the feet, knees, hands, chest and forehead
Sat
1. Absolute Truth, 2. To remain in ‘Sat’ is to remain in Divine thoughts
Satsang
Company of the God Principle
Satsēvā
Service unto the Absolute Truth, that is, God Principle
Sattva
One of the three components in the universe, signified by purity and knowledge
Sāttvik
Sattva-predominant
Sāttviktā
Purity
Satyanārāyaṇa
A form of Shrīvishṇu
Satyayug
The first in the cycle of four Eras since the origin of the universe
Sāyujyamukti
The fourth of the four states into which Mukti (Liberation from the bondage of birth and death) is distinguished, the other three are 1. Salok, 2. Sārashti, 3. Saroop, 4. Sāyujya
Sēvā
Service unto Absolute Truth
Shabdabrahman
Brahmā Principle in the words
Shabda-shakti
Energy associated with a word
Shaḍaripu
The six foes or defects of the embodied soul: attachment, pride, anger, envy, passion and greed
Shaiva, Shaivites
Name of a sect who are followers of Deity Shiva
Shākta sect
A sect that worships Shakti
Shakti
Divine Energy
Shaktipātyoga
Self-realisation by transmission of spiritual energy from the Guru
Shaktipeeth
Seat of Divine Energy
Shāligrām
Stone emblem of Shrīvishṇu
Shālunkā
Base of the linga, also known as lingavēdī
Shambhu
Another Name of Deity Shiva
Shamī
Bharatiya mesquite tree
Shani
Saturn
Shankar
Another Name of Deity Shiva
Shānti
1. Serenity, 2. Peace
Shānti-karma
An appeasement ritual
Shāntipāṭha
A ritual in which mantrās are recited to obtain peace
Sharaṇāgat-bhāv
Spiritual emotion of complete surrender
Shasṭhī
Sixty
Shasṭhī-shānti vidhi
A ritual on occasion of completion of sixty years
Shāstrakār
Authors of scriptures
Shēhnāī
An aero-phonic instrument, usually played on auspicious occasions
Shēndūr
An orange powder used in rituals
Shēsha
Divine serpent on which the earth rests
Shēvantī
Chrysanthemum
Shikhā
Tuft
Shiv
God Principle
Shiva
1.The ‘Destroyer’ in the trinity of Hindu Deities, the other two are Brahmā and Shrīvishṇu, 2. Principle of Dissolution
Shivadoot
Messenger(s) of Deity Shiva
Shivāksha
Deity Shiva’s eye
Shivalinga
Deity Shiva's sacred symbol; Divine Phallus
Shivalok
Deity Shiva’s abode
Shivapinḍī
Deity Shiva's sacred symbol
Shivātmā
God-realised soul
Shivdashā
The state of being one with Shiv (God Principle)
Shloka
Specifically denotes a metered and often rhymed poetic verse or phrase. Shlokas are usually part of stotrās which are prayers to the Deities.
Shoḍashopachārpūjan
Ritualistic worship involving sixteen specific substances
Shraddhā
Faith
Shrāddha
Special rituals performed for the departed ancestors
Shravaṇ
Listening
Shrāvaṇ
Fifth month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Shrī
1. Mark of Divine glory with respect to a Saint or God with all His powers, 2. Shakti (Divine Energy), beauty, virtues etc, 3. Respectful way of addressing a Deity
Shrī Bruhannārdīyapurāṇa
A Holy text
Shrī Dāsbodha
A Holy text by Samartha Ramdas Swami
Shrī Gurucharitra
Composition on the life of Shrīpad Shrīvallabh and Nrusinh Saraswatī, the Incarnations of Datta - the Guru of all Gurus
Shrī Gurutattva
The Guru {rinciple
Shrī Purushsūkta
Hymns in Sanskrut, compiled in praise of the Purush (Supreme God)
Shrī Shankarāchārya
One of the greatest philosopher Sages of Bharat, the exponent of the Advait Vēdānt, founder of the four muṭhs in Bharat
Shrīmadbhagwadgitā
Sacred text of the Hindus, which explains different paths to salvation. Narrated by Shrīkrushṇa to Arjun on the battlefield of Mahābhārat
Shrīmadbhāgwat
A Holy text written by Sage Vyās, which includes stories of different Incarnations of God, the life and teachings of Shrīkrushṇa, Saints and their disciples. Name of one of the eighteen Purāṇas.
Shrī-yantra
A type of yantra, that is, a figure consisting of triangles within triangles, which has the ability to generate energy
Shrotrāchaman
Touching the right ear with the right hand and reciting the twenty-four Names of Shrīvishṇu
Shrutīs and Smrutīs
Vēdic texts
Shubham karoti
A prayer
Shūdra
The class which performs physical work
Shukra
Venus
Shūnyāvasthā
Zero-state
Siddhavastra
Cloth which is ready
Siddhi
Supernatural power, acquired through spiritual practice
Sīmāntonayan
Ritual of parting the wife’s hair, performed during pregnancy
Sindur
Vermillion
Sītā
An icon of chastity and devotion in the Hindu Dharma. She is the revered wife of Shrīrām.
Skandpurāṇ
A Holy text
Smrutīs
Compilation of traditions in Hindu Dharma
So-ham
I am That (God)'. [The oneness with the supreme consciousness is contemplated through the breathing.]
Solah sanskār
The sixteen religious rituals that an individual undergoes from birth till marriage, that is, at the 16 major life-events with a view to progressing towards God.
Soubhāgyālankār
A medium or ornament, which reminds women of their pātivr>tya (Conjugal fidelity)
Soubhāgyawati,
suwāsini, suhāsini A married woman whose husband is still alive
Sovalē
1. Beyond the state of saguṇ, 2. A clean, washed, silk or cotton dhotī to be worn during pūjā
Soyar
Impurity caused by the birth of a family member
Sthāndēvatā
When a boundary is constructed on a piece of land, it is known as 'sthān' (Place) and the presiding Deity of that sthān is called Sthāndēvatā
Sthūladēha
The gross body
Stotra
A hymn of praise. These hymns praise aspects of the Divine, such as Devi, Deity Shiva, or Shrīvishṇu.
Sudarshan-chakra
Weapon used by Shrīkrushṇā and Shrī Durgā. Of all weapons, the Sudarshanchakra is the only one, which is constantly in motion
Sudarshanyag
A ritual
Sūkta
Vēdic hymn
Sūrya
Sun
Sūryanāḍi
The sun channel
Sūryanamaskār
It is a posture/exercise in Yoga. Obeisance to the Deity Sun
Sushumnānāḍī
The central channel of the spiritual energy flow system, which extends from the base of the spine to the top of the head
Sutak
Impurity caused by the death of a family member
Sūtak
Impurity caused by the death of a family member
Sūtra
1. A channel, 2. Sacred thread, 3. Note, 4. Aphorism
Swabhāvdharma
Temperament
Swadharma
One’s own Dharma
Swadharma-karma
Karma as per Dharma
Swādhishṭhān-chakra
Second chakra (centre) in the spiritual energy system located in the region of the genitals in the subtle-body
Swāhā
'I offer' – mantra recited while offering oblations
Swami
1. An address of reverence for a religious man, 2. A monk
Swarga
Heaven. The third region of the seven subtle positive regions, where one experiences only happiness
Swāstik
An auspicious mark, which represents the Principle of Divine Energy in the form of Shrī Lakshmī
Swayambhu
Self-materialised
Swēchhā
One's own wish
Tāḍāsan
Raise the arms backwards without bending the elbows, with hands still in the Namaskār posture. With the head between the arms, bend the waist backwards a little. Fix the gaze upwards
Tālbrahman
Brahman Principle in the rhythm
Tama
One of the three components in the universe, signified by inertia and ignorance
Tāmasik
Tama-predominant
Tāmbūl
Betel leaves with betelnut, lime, cardamoms etc.
Tāmhan+ (in Marathi)
Round, shelving metal dish
Tānḍavanrutya
Cosmic dance of Deity Shiva
Tantra
A branch of the Vēdās, a Path of spiritual practice
Tāntrik
1. One who practises the science of Tantra, 2. People who appease negative energies as part of their spiritual practice, 3. Technical
Tapascharyā
Austerities
Tapolok
Sixth of the seven subtle higher regions of the universe
Tārak
Saviour (Antonym : mārak – destroyer)
Tarpaṇa
Offering water to deceased ancestors
Tattva
Principle
Tēj
Absolute Fire Principle
Tilak
A mark of saffron or sandalwood paste worn on the forehead
Tilak
A vertical mark made on the forehead with substances such as kumkum
Til-tarpaṇa
Offering sesame seeds (til) and water
Tīrtha
Sacred liquid
Tithi
A lunar day
Topī
A Bharatiya cap used especially during rituals
Trātak
Method of meditation that involves concentrating (Fixed gazing) on a single point such as a small object, black dot or a candle flame
Trāṭak
1. Staring at an object as a yogic exercise, 2. Spiritual practice of achieving a thoughtless state of mind by concentrating on an object
Trayodashī
Thirteenth day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Trētāyug
The second in the cycle of four Eras since the origin of the universe
Triguṇ
The three basic components of the human body - Sattva, Raja and Tama
Triguṇ̣ātīt
The state beyond triguṇās (Three spiritual components)
Trilok
The three regions – Earth, Heaven, Nether region
Tripunḍra
Three lines drawn horizontally on the forehead with bhasma
Tripuṭi
Triad of doer of the karma, the karma and the act of performing the karma that are inter-related
Trishūl
A trident; three-spiked weapon, associated with Deity Shiva
Trutīyā
Third day in a Hindu lunar fortnight
Tulsī
Holy basil plant
Tulsī-vrundāvan
A small rectangular structure in which the tulsī (Holy basil plant) is grown
Turyāvasthā
Fourth state beyond waking, sleep and dream
Tyāg
Sacrifice; sacrifice unto the Absolute Truth
Udabatti
Incense-stick
Udakshānti
Ritual performed to purify a premises
Udān
One of the five vital energies, involved in the activity of exhalation and speech
Unmani
Thoughtless state
Upanayan
The ritual of thread ceremony
Upanishad
These are a class of philosophical writings attached to the Brāhman section of Vēdās; their aim is exposition of the secret meaning of the Vēdās and are regarded as the source of Vēdānt philosophiy.
Upa-prāṇ
Subordinate vital energy
Uparṇē
A shawl or a small single cloth worn loosely over the shoulders
Upāsanā-kānḍa
Spiritual practice done with the mind
Upāsyadēvatā
Deity of worship
Upavās
Fast as Vowed religious observance
Upavastra
1. Additional cloth, 2. Secondary cloth
ūrdhvapunḍra
One or more vertical lines drawn on the forehead with either sandalwood paste or Gopichandan
Uṭaṇē, ubṭan
Fragrant herbal powder, which is applied to the body before bath
Uttānāsan
Bending forward gradually, move the hands towards the ground. Then, bending at the waist but remaining standing, touch the palms to the ground on either side of the feet. Without bending the knees, try to touch the forehead to the knees
Uttarāyaṇ
Six-month period between Makar Sankranti (around January 15) and Karka Sankranti (around July 14), when the sun travels towards the north on the celestial sphere
Vaidhruti-yog
Name of one of the 27 auspicious times that is active during sunrise
Vaidik
Well-versed in one of the four Vēdās
Vaikhari
Mode of speech of an average individual, totally devoid of Bliss
Vaikunṭha
Abode of Shrīvishṇu
Vairāgya
Detachment
Vaishākha
Second month in the Hindu lunar almanac
Vaishṇav
A sect that worships Shrīvishṇu
Vaishya
One who belongs to the third of the four varṇās (Classes) and carries on some trade
Vajra
Divine weapon of Indra, made from bones of Sage Dadhīchi
Vākdēvī
Goddess of speech
Vālmīki
A Sage who was a great Sanskrut poet and author of Rāmāyaṇa
Vāmakukshi
A nap taken for 24 minutes by lying on the left side after lunch
Vānaprasthāshram
Third stage among the four stages of life, retired householder
Vāṇī
Chanting in the Pashyantī mode of speech
Vārkarī
A sect in the Hindu Dharma who worship Shrī Vitṭthal
Varṇa
Class
Varṇāshram
Four varṇās and four stages of life
Varṇāshramdharma-pravartak
One who promotes Dharma according to the system of varṇa (Class)
Varṇāshramvyavasthā
System of classes and stages of life
Varuṇ
Deity of water/rain
Vāsanāmay
kosha Sheath of desire
Vasishṭha
A great Sage and Guru of Shrīrām who practised the path of Devotion
Vāstu
Premises
Vāstudēvatā or Vāstupurush
Presiding Deity of a premises
Vāstushānti
Ceremony / ritual done at the site or foundation of a house
Vāstushāstra
Science of studying a premises
Vāstushuddhi
Spiritual purification of a premises
Vasūs
1. Celestial beings, 2. Deities of directions
Vāta, pitta and kapha
These three doshās in Ayurvēdic practice have particular qualities or attributes which characterise their effects on the human body
Vātāvaraṇ
Environment
Vāyu
Air
Vāyumand)al
Atmosphere, environment as per the usage
Vāyutattva
Absolute Air Principle
Vēdānt
Having complete knowledge of the Vēdas
Vēdāntī
Practitioners of Vēdās
Vēdās
The most sacred Hindu scriptures, revealed directly by God
Vēdic period
The period when the famous Hindu scriptures, the Vēdās were documented
Veermāruti
Form of Deity Māruti, as a warrior
Vētāl
The word Vētāl is created from vaitāl, meaning one who makes even a severe aberration dance to His tune
Vibhūti
Holy ash
Vichārmanḍal
Thought sheath
Vidēha-Moksha
Final Liberation sans the body
Vidhinishēdha
Precepts and prohibitions
Vidyā
1. Knowledge, 2. Spiritual knowledge
Vinay
Humility
Vishṇu
Sustainer in the trinity of Hindu Deities, the other two are Brahmā and Deity Shiva
Vishṇulok
Abode of Shrīvishṇu
Vishṇu-panchāyatan
A group of five Deities in which Shrīvishṇu is the chief Deity
Vishuddha-chakra
Fifth centre (Chakra) in the spiritual energy system located in the neck in the subtle-body
Vishwakarmā
Architect of the Deities
Vishwāmitra
A Bharatiya warrior who became a great Sage with His intense penance
Vitṭhal
The famous and much worshipped Deity, a form of Shrīvishṇu, in the temple at Pandharpur, Maharashtra
Vivāh
Marriage
Vivēk
Ability to discriminate betweenright and wrong
Vrat
Vowed religious observance
Vyāghramukh
Through the ages, tigers have been depicted as sentinels at the main entrances to temples. Hence, a visage of a tiger is seen commonly present at entrances to temples. This is known as a vyāghramukh.
Vyākulbhāv
Emotion of yearning
Vyān
One of the five vital energies, involved in the voluntary and involuntary movements of the body
Vyās
Maharshi Founder of the Guru-disciple tradition
Vyashṭi
Individual
Vyashṭi sādhanā
Individual spiritual practice that benefits only the seeker undertaking it
Yadnya
Ritual of sacrificial fires
Yadnyakunḍa
Pit where yadnya is performed
Yadnyārthakarma
Karma for a yadnya
Yadnyopavit (Janēu)
Sacred thread
Yāga
Fire-sacrifice
Yajurvēda
Second of the Vēdās related to sacrifices
Yaksha
The name of a broad class of nature-spirits
Yama
1. The practice of the five moral virtues, that is, non-violence, truthfulness, celibacy, non-stealing and non-desirous, 2. Abstinence from vices
Yamalok
Region of Yama
Yamarāj
Deity of Death
Yantra
1. A device/shape which represents a Deity, 2. Symbolic representation of aspects of divinity, 3. Mechanical device, 4. A device/shape used by a subtle-sorcerer to store negative energy in order to trouble a seeker / individual
Yatī
Ascetic
Yoga
1. Union, 2. Spiritually, it means union with God
Yogabhrashṭa
One who has deviated from the path of Yoga
Yoganidrā
Yogic sleep, a state of conscious deep sleep for extreme relaxation and subtler spiritual exploration
Yogāruḍh
Performing a karma with no attachment to the fruit of that karma
Yogasanyastakarmī
One who performs karma and yet remains detached from them
Yogīs
Those who have reached the state of union with God (Brahman), by following Yoga
Yojan(s)
Scale to measure distance
Yonī
Birth passage
Yudhhakarma
Duty in war
Yug
Era
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