A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality Scholar’s Terms
First Edition
Octavian Sarbatoare
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality Scholar’s Terms
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
First published in Australia in Dec. 2009 by Sarbatoare Publications, Sydney, NSW For other publications SEARCH ‘Octavian Sarbatoare’ at National Library of Australia: http://www.nla.gov.au/
[email protected] Copyright © Octavian Sarbatoare 2009 All rights reserved. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, criticis m or review, as permitte d under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission. Inquiries should be addressed to the author or legal representative.
Australian National Library Cataloguing-in-Publication data: A Sanskrit dictionary of spirituality: scholar’s terms
ISBN 978 0 9807337 0 9. 1. Sanskrit language - Dictionaries. 2. Spiritual direction. I. Title. 294.2 Typeset by Sarbatoare Publications
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Octavian Sarbatoare
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality Scholar’s Terms
Sarbatoare Publications Sydney
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Preface to first edition and introduction
This dictionary is specialised and unique in its construct. Unfolds an array of classifications that allows the development of multiple concepts just by following the trails of bold words. In order to avoid repeating explanations, under various entries, a certain spiritual word is described in one place only. This makes the dictionary very compact. The main text is arranged in roman alphabetical order. This method does not take into account having a certain order of letters with diacritical signs (i.e. bars above vowels or the dots under consonants), although it keeps correct the international transliteration of Devanāgari , the Sanskrit alphabet. Those readers having knowledge of Devanāgari , can easily write any word from its transliterated form. Many Sanskrit composed words are split in order to make it easy for the reader, but they can be written in composed or separated forms equally. For this reason the arrangement in roman alphabetical order does not take into account the space between two words. The dictionary does not provide lengthy description of words, but emphasises on the key spiritual meanings and connections with other entries. The explanation of various yogic or other techniques is beyond the purpose of this work; they have to be learned from specialized written material or a qualified teacher, etc. Sometimes there is more than one significance behind an entry. The alternatives are mentioned without going in much detail, but as guidance for further studies only. The few roots or literal information mentioned herein are to emphasize the significance of an entry. For more details about the origination of words should be consulted specialised Sanskrit dictionaries. This work contains many useful classifications in Hindu spirituality. A number of classical works names are mentioned, thus allowing the reader to pursue further studies on the subject. There is of course a larger Sanskrit spiritual terminology, however a limit has to be set up in regards to the details herein presented. The basic text was finalised during one of my trips to India at Deoghar in the year 2001. But, its publication waited until 2009, when the conditions were proper for an easy presentation to the public, considering the multiple possibilities that are now available on the Net. This dictionary is made for the serious spiritual seeker only, the one who is ready to undertake research into the deep field of Indian consciousness thought. For many years to come this free electronic book will be present on the Internet for the purpose of serving the keen seeker of spiritual liberation.
Octavian Sarbatoare Sydney, Sydney, 2009, Australia
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A
A Abhaya Fearlessness as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Abhaya Mudr1 The gesture of dispelling fear ( Bhaya)
Abhigamana vide Up1sana
Abhim1na The ego awareness, a synonym for
Asmit1
Abhimata A pleasant object for meditation vide also Dhy1na
Abhinive0a Will to live, as one of the five
Kle0a-s, known also as !0i=
vide V1san1
Abhi=eka A ceremonial purification either of a deity or an individual by bathing or sprinkling water
Abhivyakti Manifestation vide also Abhivyaktik1ra9a, Vyakta
Abhivyaktik1ra9a The cause of manifestation ( Vyakta)
Abhy1sa Practical application of spiritual teachings as a way to obtain perfection and liberation
Abhy1sin A practitioner of any form of
Abhy1sa; a S1dhaka or Yog2 Yog2
!camana A ceremonial rite of sipping water from the palm of the hand and sprinkling it on the body on various parts for the purpose of purification It is used also for purification before meals or religious ceremonies.
Ac1pala Absence of fickleness as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
!c1ra Lit. 'manner of action, conduct, practice; rule ' 5
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Way of spiritual life In Tantra are distinguished seven ways of spiritual life namely Ved1c1ra, Vai=9av1c1ra, )aiv1c1ra, Dak=i91c1ra Dak=i91c1ra, V1m1c1ra V1m1c1ra, Siddh1nt1c1ra Siddh1nt1c1ra and Kul1c1ra. Kul1c1ra.
!c1ra Tantra The practice of
Tantra
!c1rya Teacher
!cch1v1ka !cch1 v1ka Lit. 'the one who invites' In the
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Hot4 priest
!d1na The action of taking or receiving vide also Ana^gamadan1^ku01
!dar0a The sense of super-ordinary seeing vide also Pr1tibha
Adbhuta Wonder as one of the
Rasa-s
Adha501kha Adha501kha Lit. 'lower branch' A representation of the world as having branches below and upper roots as
Brahman
Adha50akti The lower, one of the
Ku98alin2 )akti-s
!dh1ra Support; foundation
!dh1ra Padma Centre in the body for
Dh1ra9a practicing, known also as De0a
Adharma Sin as one of the eight
Bh1va-s; unrighteousness
vide also Dharma
Adhideva vide Adhidevat1
Adhidevat1 Presiding (tutelary) deity, same as
Adhik1ra Lit. 'right, privilege' 6
Adhideva
#rdhvam3la of
A
One's competency for spiritual
S1dhan1 as assessed by the Guru before initiation
Adhik1rabheda Lit. 'right of separation' The coexistence of various doctrines and believes in the history of India, all as forms of one Reality (Sat )
Adhik1rin Lit. 'fit for; entitled t o' A name of a qualified aspirant for spiritual life, a competent
S1dhaka
Adhim1tra T2vrasa%vega High intensity of eagerness as one of the three
T2vrasa%vega T2vrasa%vega-s
Adhi=7h1na Lit. 'abode, residence, site; site ; standing by' A locus or medium to experience with
Adhvabheda The process of time difference between
At2ta, Vartam1na Vartam1na and An1gata Dharma-s
Adhvara In the Veda-s a non-injuring sacrifice consisting of preliminary preparations and duties before the sacrifice itself vide also Adhvaryu
Adhvaryu One of the four Vedic priests ( $rvija-s) the one who chants the hymns of the performing Adhvara An Adhvaryu is assisted by three helper priests viz.
Yajur Veda while
Pratiprasth1t4 , Ne=74 Ne=74 and Unnet4 Unnet4 .
Adhy1tma Lit. 'origin of
!tma '
The Supreme Spirit; the science of the Supreme Spirit as
)1stra
Adhy1tma Vidy1 Knowledge of the Supreme Spirit
!din1tha (also !d20vara) A name of
)iva as the original Guru, the Primal Lord
Aditi Lit. 'boundless, infinity' One of the most ancient known Mother Goddess referred to in the of Dak=a, mother of the !ditya-s and of the gods
$g Veda as being the daughter
!d20vara (see !din1tha) !ditya Lit. 'primal light' A Vedic class of deities; principle sustaining nature and the universe 7
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Traditionally there are twelve !ditya-s, correlating with the twelve solar months. The most important is Savit4 (S3rya) hence the name !ditya for the Sun God. The are: A%s1, Aryaman, Bhaga, Dak=a, Mitra, P3=an, )akra, Savit4 , Tva=74 , Varu9a, Vi=9u and Vivasvat (ref. Taittir2ya !ra9yaka !ra9yaka, I.13). vide also Antar1ditya Vidy1
!diyog1c1rya The first teacher of
Yoga Yoga, i.e. )iva
Adroha Absence of hatred as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Advaita Lit. 'without duality' The doctrine of non-duality in which the Supreme Soul Soul J2v1tman All existence is being regarded as one reality.
Param1tman is identified with the human
)a^kara is the best known writer on the subject.
!dy1 Lit. 'eternal'
Nity1 )akti-s; the original )akti who is the source of all other Nity1 )akti-s !dy1 Nity1 )akti corresponds to the full-moon. It is known also as Tripurasundar2 Tripurasundar2, A^gi A^g i Nity1 and symbolizes Dev2 Herself. The Mantra for !dy1 Nity1 is Sklhr2%. One of the
!dy1 Nity1 )akti The eternal original power vide also !dy10akti, Vimar0a )akti
!dy10akti K1l2 !dy10akti, !dy1 !dy1 Nity1 )akti , Vimar0a Vimar0a )akti are all the same. Primordial power as aspect of the goddess
!gama Lit. 'coming near, approaching; studying; acquisition of knowledge' Authoritative work; testimony Sacred works of Tantra -s in which )iva is Guru (spiritual teacher) and Dev2 (as P1rvat2) is )i=ya (disciple); a testimony based on a previous Pram19a and if correct imparted is one of the three Pram19a-s. vide also Nigama
!g1mikarma Action yet to be performed and its results
Agastya Name of a sage, also a name of
)iva
Aghora Lit. 'not terrific' A name of 8
)iva; a worshipper of )iva and Dev2. Aghori is a female Aghora
A
vide also Aghora M1rga
Aghora M1rga A particular sect of (T1ntrika-s)
)aiva-s of non-conventional practices considered to be pure Tantra adepts
Aghori vide Aghora
!gney2 Dh1ra91 The Dh1ra91 on fire as one of the
Pa6cadh1ra91 Pa6cadh1ra91-s
Agni Lit. 'fire' The Vedic god of fire known also as Agnideva; the sacrificial fire; the fire of the stomach; the Devat1 of Su=umn1 N182; the power of transformation As a Vedic god Agni was Indra-s brother and essential to the practice of ritual sacrifice. As sacrificial fire in the Veda-s, Agni is of three kinds namely G1rhapatya, Dak=i9a (or Anv1h1ryapacana) and !havan2ya. Esoterically Agni is the consciousness ( Cit), the three kinds of sacrificial fires are expressions of levels of awareness and therefore equated with Ma9ip3ra, An1hata and Vi0uddhi Vi0uddhi Cakra-s.
S3rya, Agnitraya Agnitraya, Cidvahni Cidvahni, Agni S3rya Indra, vide also J1thar1gni, S3rya
Upakosala Vidy1
Agni B2ja The Mantra Ra% associated with Ma9ip3ra Cakra
Agnicayana The act of preparing the Vedic sacrificial fireplace
Agnideva vide Agni
Agn2dhra In the
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Br1hma9a priest by kindling the sacrificial fire
Agnig4ha A place keeping the sacred fire known also as
Agni01la
Agni G4hapati Agni the lord of the house with the sacred fire; the fire of the body It is also one of the eight Devas3-s, an aspect of Agni.
Agnihoma The oblation put into the sacrificial fire like milk, ghee, cooked cereal, etc., according to the ritual of Agnihotra It is also known as
Homa.
Agnihotra Agni It is of two kinds namely Nitya (necessary) and K1mya (optional). Agnihotra rite is concluded by Agnyupasth1na (the worship of Agni). Vide Hotr1 Arghya Havi for the object of oblation with The rite of sacrificing to
9
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
fire. As a yogic practice
Agnihotra is identified with Pr191y1ma.
vide also !tm1rpa9a
Agnihotr1h3ti The rite of sacrificing (oblation) to
Agni with invocation (recitation) of sacred formulas ( Mantra -s)
Agnihotrin The performer of an oblation to fire; one of the four Vedic priests ( hymns of the Rg Veda
$tvija-s) the one who chants the
Same as Hotrin or Hot4 .
Agnikha98a M3l1dh1ra and Sv1dhi=7h1na Cakra-s and Brahmagranthi The presiding deity of this Kha98a is Agni, the Gu9a is Tamas and corresponds to the cosmic Bhuvarloka planes to Bh3rloka, Bhuvar Bhuvar loka and Svarloka. Group containing
Agniko9a The quarter ruled by
Agni on southeast position known also as Agnidi0
Agniku98a vide Homaku98a
Agnis1ra Dhauti vide Antardhauti
Agni S3rya Indra The trinity of
Veda-s
There is a fundamental parallel with the concept of J61t1 J61na J6eya in the Tantra-s in which Agni becomes the one who knows ( J61t1), S3rya the knowledge ( J61na) and Indra the object of knowledge ( J6eya). vide also Indra Agni Soma S3rya , Sat Cit !nanda
Agnis3tra The thread of fire as a rite for a young
Br1hma9a's investiture
Agnitraya The three sacrificial (sacred) fires (vide
Agni) known also as Agnitret1
Agniv1din Worshipper of fire
Agni Yoga Yoga generated by various techniques, Pr191y1ma being the most important It is considered that a Yoga practitioner starts the spiritual growth once touched by the fire of Yoga. The fire of
Aha% Lit. 'I'
Devan1gari ) This union contains within all the letters of the M1t4k1, therefore as a Mantra is an expression of The union of A the first letter and Ha the last letter of the Sanskrit alphabet (
10
A
)abda in all its forms.
Aha%brahm1smi Brahman', a celebrated statement in the Upani=ad-s vide also Mah1v1kya 'I am
Aha%k1ra Lit. 'I am the doer' The principle of Ego-formation as kind of separation from the divine It is fundamental that Aha%k1ra has to die before the higher consciousness will emerge. The explosion of Aha%k1ra happens in !j6a Cakra.
Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprada Cakra, !k10a !k10a vide also Vajre0var2, Sarvasiddhiprada
Aha%k1r1kar=i92 Aha%k1ra vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
Aha%k1ratattva Aha%k1ratattva The Tattva of
Aha%k1ra
!h1ra Lit. 'food'
Yoga practices The food is divided according to the three Gu9a-s. The dietary rules as part of
!havan2ya Agni One of the three sacrificial fires taken from the
G1rhapatya Agni
In this fire the oblation is offered. In the human body it is located in the neck area. Esoterically it represents the level of consciousness of Vi0uddhi Cakra. vide also Agni
Ahi%s1 Lit. 'non-injuring' Non-injury or non-violence non-violence as one of the twent y-six
Yoga
Daiv2sampat-s and one of the five Yama-s in
Ahi%s1prati=7h1 Ahi%s1 is firmly established In the presence of a Yog2 possessing Ahi%s1prati=7h1 all enmities will cease. side also Vairaty1ga A state in which
!h3ti Lit. 'invoking' A sacred rite of offering oblation with fire accompanied by certain magic formulas (
Mantra-s)
vide also Agnihotr1h3ti
Ai0varya Competence as one of the eight
Bh1va-s 11
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide also Anai0varya
!j1naja Deva Lit. 'born in the world of gods' A god by birth A person of remarkable divine qualities supposed to be inherited from previous births. Another kind of god is a Karma Deva, who is created by own actions, i.e. he/ she has to work to qualify for the name. vide also !nandamaya Vidy1
Ajap1 G1yatr2 vide Soham
Ajapa Japa The recitation of
Ha%sa5 Mantra or Soham Mantr Mantra a with awareness of the breath, also known as
Ajapajapa
!j61 Lit. 'to perceive, understand' Order, command
!j61 Cakra The Cakra of command One of the major Cakra-s in the human body !j61 Cakra is located at the Medulla Oblongata, the top of the vertebral column i.e. behind the Bhr3madhya. The level of awareness in !j61 Cakra is Taparloka. vide also Yuktatrive92, J61na Cak=u, Divya Cak=u,
J61na Netra, Itarali^ga, Aha%k1ra
!j61na Avidy1; ignorance as one of the eight Bh1va-s vide also J61na
A synonym for
!k1ra !k1r a With form; manifested as a name for
Sagu9a Brahman
vide also Nir1k1ra
!kar=a9a Siddhi The power of attracting vide also Siddhi
!k10a Ether; space The A%0a-s (constituent parts) of Anta5kara9a. and Anta5kara9a
!k10a in the Pi98198a are Aha%k1ra, Citta Citta, Buddhi Buddhi, Manas Manas
vide also Bh3ta
!k10atattva The Tattva of !k10a, known also as In the 12
Vyomatattva
!k10atattva, J2v1tman J2v1tman resides dormant and non-manifest in the human body.
A
!k10a Vidy1 The knowledge of
!k10a
A Veda Vidy1, (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) referring to !k10a as pervading pervading everything. This endless Tattva has to be seen in connection with the Tanm1tra of )abda and the sound of
Udg2tha. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
!k102 Dh1ra91 The Dh1ra91 on space as one of the
Pa6cadh1ra91 -s
Akha98a Without division vide also Kha98a Kha98a
Akha981gni Uninterrupted fire
Akrodha Absence of anger ( Krodha) as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Ak=a vide Rudr1k=a
Ak=am1 Not letting go of a negative experience as opposed to
K=am1
Ak=ara Lit. 'imperishable' A syllable; a name for the syllable
O%; a name for Brahman
Ak=ar1k=ara Vidy1 The knowledge of the imperishable ( Brahman)
Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s in which the knowledge of Brahman is the higher Vidy1 by which the imperishable is realized. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 A
Ak=ayapatra Ak=ayapatra Lit. 'never ending leaf' A symbol of abundance, as the leaf could serve as plate for food
Ak=i Vidy1 The knowledge of the eye A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s. It is a Devay1na path in which Puru=a is meditated upon internally as Indra in the right eye and Indr192 in the left eye. The conjoint meditation leads to the knowledge of Sagu9a Brahman if this Vidy1 as correlated with Antar1ditya Vidy1. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Akula vide Kaula 13
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Alabdhabh3mikatva The state of lack of concentration as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s
Alakhb1ra Lit. 'invisible boundary' A place of seclusion where
Paramaha%sa Sanny1sin-s live
!lambana Object of an experience having
!0raya as its basis
vide also V1san1
Ala%bus1 N182 The N182 connected to the centre of the forehead
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Sarvasa%k=obhi92 Sarvasa%k=obhi92
!lasya Laziness as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s and one of the seven Varjana-s
Ali^ga Lit. 'without sign'
Avyakta Prak4ti ; a stage of non-differentiation when Gu9a-s are in equilibrium and Asmit1 Sam1dhi is experienced (vide Gu9aparva )
A synonym for
!loka Light as experience beyond the
Loka-s
vide also Jyoti=mat2 Prav4tti
Aloluptva Freedom from desire as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Amanaska Brahman beyond the mental plane vide also Manaska
The knowledge of
Am1nitva Humility as a virtue of wisdom
Ambhas2 Dh1ra91 The Dh1ra91 on water as one of the
Pa6cadh1ra91-s
Ambik1 Great Mother as a name of
Dev2
Amla Sour, one of the essential tastes ( Rasa-s)
Am4ta Nectar of immortality, ambrosia vide also Soma, Soma Rasa
Am4t1kar=i92 14
A
Am4ta vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
Am4ta P1n Taking of the nectar ( Am4ta) Tantric ritual of divine nectar. There are external and internal techniques.
Am4t1p3r9a Lit. 'filled with nectar' A state of purity of mind of a
Yog2
vide also A=7asiddhi
A%s1 The share of gods, one of the twelve
!ditya-s
A%0a Constituent part of a classification
An1gata Dharma The inherent property of future time as a potential state, one of the three properties of time)
Dharma-s (as inherent
The knowledge of An1gata Dharma and Adhvabheda will enable one to have time experiences and change the world of time as An1gata becomes Vartam1na and Vartam1na becomes At2ta.
An1h1ra Fasting (or not eating enough) as one of the seven
Varjana-s
vide also Mit1h1ra
An1hata Cakra Lit. 'un-struck
Cakra '
The Cakra located on the vertebral column behind the centre of the chest This Cakra is associated with the J61nendriya of Tvak , the Karmendriya of P19i, the Tanm1tra of Spar0 Spar0a a, is the centre for Pr19a V1yu and the seat of Manomaya Ko0a, the level of awareness is Maharloka. vide also K1kin2
An1hata Dhvani vide An1hata )abda
An1hata )abda The un-struck, silent sound as subtle transcendental state known also as
An1hata Dhvani
Anai0varya Incompetence as one of the eight
Bh1va-s
vide also Ai0varya
!nanda Lit. 'happiness, bliss; enjoyment; sensual pleasure; delight; the act of enjoying' Pure happiness as one of the three attributes of
!tman 15
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide also Ana^gamadan1
!nandalahar2 Lit. 'wave of enjoyment' The Tantric hymn of
)a^kar1c1rya addressed to his wife P1rvat2
!nandamaya Ko0a The body of bliss as sphere of consciousness It is the expression of the balanced aspect of the inner spirit and the experience of a blissful state and has its seat in the Bindu Visarga. !nandamaya Ko0a forms K1ra9a )ar2ra, the causal body going beyond beyond the manifestations of Prak4ti.
!nandamaya Vidy1 The knowledge of bliss A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) refers to the knowledge of !nandamaya Ko Ko0a 0a and Deva Gandharva, Pit4, various evolutionary stages namely Manu=ya , Manu=ya Gandharva , Deva !j1naja Deva, Karma Karma Deva, Deva, Indra, B4haspati, Praj1pati and Sagu9a Brahman. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
!nanda Sam1dhi Sam1dhi in which the !tmadra=7a !tmadra=7a is able to experience the essential nature of thought This state is known also as !nanda Asampraj61ta Sam1dhi.
A stage of
Ana^ga Lit. 'bodiless' A name of body
K1madeva (after he was burned to ashes by )iva's third eye Cak=u) as love without a
The esoteric explanation of Ana^ga is that (vide commentary on K1ma).
K1ma as desire exists even without an object of desire
Ana^gakusum1 The mental faculty of being attracted It corresponds to the human expressing of
Vacana (speaking) symbolized by Kusuma.
Sarva0a%k=obha9a =obha9a Cakra vide also Sarva0a%k
Ana^gamadan1 The mental faculty of loving
!nanda (enjoying) symbolized by Madan1. Sarva0a%k=obha9a Cakra, Madan1, Ana^ga vide also Sarva0a%k=obha9a Ana^ga It corresponds to the human expressing of
Ana^gamadan1^ku01 The mental faculty of being attached It corresponds to the human expressing of
Sarva0a%k=obha9a vide also Sarva0a%k=obha9a
!d1na (taking) symbolized by A^ku0a.
Cakra
Ana^gamadan1tur1 The mental faculty of being lovesick It corresponds to the human expressing of 16
Gamana (going) symbolized by Madan1tur1.
A
vide also Sarva0a%k=o Sarva0a%k=obha9a bha9a Cakra
Ana^gam1lin2 The mental faculty of wanting to be accepted It corresponds to the human attitude of vide also Sarva0a%k=obha9a Sarva0a%k=obha9a
Up1d1na (accepting) symbolized by M1l1.
Cakra
Ana^gamekhal1 The mental faculty of being proud It corresponds to the human attitude of vide also Sarva0a%k=obha9a Sarva0a%k=obha9a
Upek=a (ignoring) symbolized by Mekhal1.
Cakra
Ana^garekh1 The mental faculty of being detached It corresponds to the human attitude of vide also Sarva0a%k=obha9a Sarva0a%k=obha9a
H1na (rejecting) symbolized by Rekh1.
Cakra
Ana^gavegan2 Ana^gavegan2 The mental faculty of being excited It corresponds to the human attitude of vide also Sarva0a%k=obha9a Sarva0a%k=obha9a
Visarga (excreting) symbolized by Vega.
Cakra
Ananta Lit. 'infinite, endless' The name of )e=a ()e=an1ga or N1gan1yaka ), the snake-god (or serpent-king) of a thousand heads who serves as Vi=9u's couch.
Anantav1da The doctrine of infinity
Anavasthitatva The state of instability as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s
A98api98a Macrocosm (Brahm198a) and Microcosm ( Pi98198a)
A^ga Lit. 'limb; part; step' A subdivision of a science or of a
Mantra, etc.; the body; the mind; accessory
vide also A=71^ga Yoga
A^gamejayatva The activity of unsteadiness of the mind As one of the four
Vik=epasahabh3-s it is connected to Pr19amaya Ko0a
A^ga Ny1sa Tantric rite of touching certain parts of the body ( A^ga)
A^ga P3j1 17
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Worship with offering especially of flowers to the several parts of Lord's body
A^ga Vidy1 The esoteric knowledge and interpretation inte rpretation of various marks on the body
A^gay1ga A subordinate sacrificial rite vide also Y1ga
A^gi Nity1 vide !dy1
A^giras $=i in the Veda-s; seer; ray vide also Sapta4=i
Name of a
A^gu=7ham1tra Vidy1 The knowledge of the Soul ( J2va) A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s. The term A^gu=7ham1tra for the soul denotes something which is extremely fine, having residence in the heart. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Anib1dha Unobstructed, without obstacles; liberty
A9im1 Lit. 'minuteness' One of the eight yogic powers of becoming as small as an atom vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi A=7asiddhi
A9im1di vide A=7asiddhi A=7 asiddhi
A6jali Reverence, salutation
A6jali Mudr1 The gesture of placing side by side the open hands in front of the body as kind of reverence
A6jana Siddhi The power of making clear vide also Siddhi
A6janat1 The quality of identifying with the form of an object as a result of
A^ku0a Lit. 'goad'
Dve=a Ana^gamadan1^ku01, P101^ku0a vide also Ana^gamadan1^ku01,
A representation of
18
Am4t1p3r9a
A
Anna Food
Annamaya Ko0a The body of nourishment as sphere of consciousness It forms Sth3la )ar2ra, the gross body having its seat in the expression and experience of the gross matter.
M3l1dh1ra M3l1dh1ra Cakra. This Ko0a is the
Anna Yoga The Yoga of food based on
!h1ra rules
Anta5kara9a Lit. 'the internal organ' The thinking faculty of mind vide also !k10a
Antar Inner
Antar1ditya Vidy1 The knowledge of the inner sun A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s. The right eye represents the sun, the left eye the moon, meditation on this Vidy1 has an external form leading to the knowledge of Sagu9a Brahman if correlated with Ak=i Vidy1. vide also Dv1tri%0at Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Antar1k10a Inner space
Antara^ga The internal stage, the inner expression as opposed to
Bahira^ga
Antar1ya vide Citta Vik=ep1
Antardhauti Yogic technique of inner purification There are four main
Antardhauti-s viz. V1tas1ra, V1ris1ra, Vahnis1ra (or Agnis1ra) and
Bahi=k4ta.
Antardhy1na Inner deep meditation
Antarindriya An internal organ In Ved1nta there are four
Antarindriya-s viz. Manas, Citta, Buddhi, and Aha%k1ra.
Antarj61na The knowledge coming from within
Antary1ga 19
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Inner worship vide also Y1ga Y1ga, Bahiry1ga
Antasa^kalpa A terminal spiritual stage of a no urge to fulfil a nything.
Yog2 who has experienced Dharmamegha Sam1dhi when there is
A9u Atom vide also Tanm1tra, Param19u
A9ubh3ti Lit. 'perception' The generic term which describes the spiritual experience as various degrees of experience of consciousness, another term to describe Sam1dhi in Yoga
Anugraha Lit. 'kindness, favour; conferring benefits' Blessing, grace
Anulomaviloma Kind of Pr191y1ma as technique of alternate breathe
Anusa%dh1na Lit. 'investigation, searching into; plan' Discovery
Anu=7h1na Lit. 'performance; undertaking; practice' The accomplishment of an act with absolute discipline according to a definite plan; the of an act There is a wide range of
Anu=7h1na-s like Japa, J61na, T1pasya, Yoga, Tantra, etc.
Anusv1ra vide Bindu
Anv1h1ryapacana Agni vide Agni
Ap Water The A%0a-s of
Ap in the Pi98198a are the five Tanm1tra-s. vide also Bh3ta
Apai0una Absence of crookedness as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Ap1na The V1yu which expels the life-force from the body 20
Sa^kalpa
A
vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvasampatpr S Sarvasampatprad1 arvasampatprad1 ad1, Devasu=i Devasu=i
Ap1na Mudr1 The gesture ( Mudr1) of acquiring ac quiring (preserving)
Ap1na energy
Apara Lower or worldly knowledge
Apar1jita Lit. 'invincible, unsurpassed' The palace in the Brahmaloka representing the order to reach Parya^ka
R3pa of Brahm1 as a stage to be overcome in
Parya^ka Vidy1 vide also Mah10akti, Parya^ka
Apar1ntaj61na The knowledge of death It is known by practicing
Sa%yama on Sopakrama and Nirupakrama Nirupakrama Karma-s.
Aparigraha Non-receiving as one of the five
Yama-s
Aparigrahaprati=7h1 Aparigraha is firmly established A Yog2 possessing Aparigrahaprati=7h1 will get the memory of past life because the mind is
A state in which purified.
Aparok=1nubh3ti Lit. 'perception of the perceptible' The personal experience of the Divine with form as experience of
Bhakti
Apavarga Lit. 'turned off' A synonym for
Mok=a
Apsaras Nymph, angelic creature
!ptaj61na The spiritual stage of a Yog2 who has experienced knowledge has been removed
Dharmamegha Dharmamegha Sam1dhi when the veil of
It allows a different kind of experience because there is nothing left to be known., thus real knowledge ( J61na) is accomplished.
!ptak1ma The spiritual stage of a nothing left to be desired
Yog2 who has experienced Dharmamegha Dharmamegha Sam1dhi when there is
Yog2’s desires are completely fulfilled, Siddhi-s do arise naturally, the complete Brahmacarya is obtained as the Yog2 does not respond to the sexual sensation of any form.
In this stage
Aptattva 21
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
The Tattva of Ap known also as
Toyatattva
Apunya Lack of merit
!ra S1lajja city in the Brahmaloka The crossing of !ra and (ya means overcoming the Pa6c1gni-s. vide also Parya^ka Parya^ka Vidy1 One of the lakes before entering into
!r1dhana Worship, adoration; a ceremony to propitiate a deity
!ra%bha Avasth1 A Yoga Avasth1 of a Yog2 after overcoming the
Brahmagranthi
!ra9i Piece of wood Two !ra9i !ra9i-s are used to kindle the sacred fire by attrition, they represent mind and body, heaven and earth, father and mother, i.e. the bringing together of polarities.
!ra9yaka Lit. 'forest; produced in the forest' A specific kind of Vedic literature
!ra and (ya (ya are the two lakes as obstacles before entering in the city of Brahm1 named S1lajja. vide also Parya^ka Parya^ka Vidy1
!ra9y1yama !ra9y1yama Lit. 'walking in the forest' Celibacy
Arcan1 (also Arcana) One of the nine
A^ga-s of Bhaki Yoga as the devotional act of ritual worship of the Divine
Ardhan1r20vara )iva and )akti as symbol of their unity The )aiva-s worship the male or the right side, the )1kta-s the female or the left side. A conjoined representation of
Arghya Offering, oblation
Hotr1, Arghya Arghya, Havi Havi vide also Hotr1
Ari=7a The omen of knowledge of death ( Apar1ntaj61na)
!rjava Straightforwardness as one of twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Arjuna One of the five 22
P19dava brothers in the epic Mah1bh1rata, disciple and companion of the Lord
A
K4=9a in Bhagavad G2t1
!roha9a The act of ascending as opposed to
Avaroha9a
Arpa9avidy1 The Para (supreme) worship of
Dev2
Artha Lit. 'aim, purpose' Wealth, material gains; object of the senses vide also Puru=1rtha Puru=1rtha, Savitarka Savitarka Sam1dhi
Aru9a The impulsive One
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental activity of Icch1 (wish). vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra One of the
Ar3pa Formless as opposed to
R3pa (with form) as one of characteristics of the Self
Arvan Lit. 'primal power' In the
Veda-s the stallion as representing the primal power
Arya Lit. 'nobleman' The Aryan people and their tradition
!rya Dharma Lit. 'path of noble people' vide Veda
Aryaman Nobility as one of the twelve
!ditya-s
A=18ha The month corresponding to parts of June/ July vide also M1sa
Asampraj61ta Sam1dhi Sam1dhi in which the practitioner has overcome the stage of differentiation going beyond Pratyaya, but still in the presence of Sa%sk1ra Sa%sk1ra-s It is an intermediate state of Sam1dhi.
Kind of
!sana Lit. 'sitting' Yogic or Tantric posture as form of integration of the human body ( body (Brahm198a)
Pi98198a) with the cosmic 23
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
In Yoga one of the eight A^ga-s of the A=71^ga Yoga of Pata6jali. Through is obtained. There is an exoteric and esoteric symbolism of !sana-s.
!sana !sana-s, D48hat1
Yog1sana, Tantr1sana Tantr1sana vide also Yog1sana
Asat The non-manifested; the state beyond
Sat and the cause of Sat
Sad Vidy1 vide also Avyakta, Sad
Asatya Falsehood as opposed to
Satya (truth)
!0i= vide Abhinive0a
Asmit1 Egoism as on of the five
Kle=a-s; the material cause of the sense organs ( Indriya-s)
vide also Abhim1na
Asmit1 Sam1dhi A stage of awareness Known as
Sam1dhi in which the !tmadra=7a will experience what is beyond thought and own
Asmit1 Asampraj61ta Sam1dhi, it culminates in Nirb2ja Sam1dhi.
!0rama Lit. 'the abode of ascetics, a hermitage; a stage in the life of a person' Spiritual retreat Traditionally there are four !0rama -s of a man's life as lifestyles viz. Brahmac1rin, G4hastha G4hastha, V1naprastha and Sa%ny1sin. The main purpose of an !0rama, as spiritual retreat for a Sa%ny1sin, is to exhaust own Karma-s, so allowing the negativity to be released, in short reinvesting own Karma.
!0raya Support or basis of an experience for
!lambana !lambana (object of an experience)
vide also V1san1
A=71^ga Yoga Yoga of the eight steps' Lit. ' Yoga The system of Yoga as thought in Yoga S3tra-s of Pata6jali as a eight-fold path, i.e. Niyama, !sana, Pr191y1ma, Praty1h1ra, Dh1ra9a, Dhy1na , and Sam1dhi
Yama,
A=7asiddhi A=7asiddhi Siddhi-s known also as A9im1di Traditionally there are only eight major Siddhi-s namely A9im1, Mahim1, Garim1, Laghim1, Pr1pti, Pr1k1mya, I0itva and Va0itva. Their acquisition is a result of mastering over the five Bh3ta-s and an expression of moving free in the world of Prak4ti.
The eight
Asteya Non-stealing as one of the five
Asteyaprati=7h1 24
Yama-s
A
A state in which
Asteya is fully established
It is considered that the material goods come to a
Yog2 possessing Asteyaprati=7h1.
Asthi Bone vide Dh1tu
!stika !s tika Veda-s
Believer in
All the literature based on
Veda-s is considered to be !stika.
vide also N1stika
Asu Lit. 'life-force, breath' In the
Veda-s the spirit surviving death
A0uddhatattva The impure
Tattva-s
They consist of the twenty-four
Tattva-s from Prak4titattva down to P4thiv2tattva (vide Tattva).
A0uddhi Element or process which makes impure the body as opposed to All Do0a-s are considered to be
)uddhi
A0uddhi-s.
A0ukl1k4=9a The mixed
Karma as one of the three accumulated Karma-s
Asura The divine or supreme spirit; a demon
A0va Lit. 'not the self' In the
Veda-s the swift horse as representing the mind or the manifested energy
!sv1da The sense of supernatural tasting vide also Pr1tibha
A0vamedha The horse sacrifice as a Vedic rite
A0vattha Lit. 'under which horses stand' The sacred fig tree Ficus Religiosa, a variety of Banyan tree Esoterically it represents the
Guru.
vide also Parya^ka Vidy1
!0vina The month that corresponds to parts of Sept./ Oct. 25
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide also M1sa
A0vini In the Veda-s the divine twin physicians (riding upon horses) said to restore health amongst mortals as well; the left and right life-force in the breath
A0vini-s hold a distinct position in the Veda-s they are practically equated with the energy flow within Id1 and Pi^gal1 N182-s.
A0vin2 Mudr1 The mare
Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bhandha-s
Atalaloka vide Loka
Atandrita The state of being alert as a yogic state
Atharva Veda The name of the fourth
Veda known also as Brahmaveda
vide also Tantra
Atij1gara Not having enough sleeping as one of the seven
Varjana-s
Atikr1ntabh1van2ya The most advanced kind of
Yog2 the one who has accomplished the transcendence
Atisvapna Excessive sleeping as one of the seven
Varjana-s
At2ta Dharma The inherent property of past time, one of the three
Dharma-s (as inherent properties of time)
!tma vide !tman
!tmabh1va Reality of the individual Soul as one's self condition and beyond any description; the self consciousness leading to Kaivalya; the awareness of the self consciousness
!tmabh1va will be experienced only when the Vi0e=a state was transcended.
!tmadar0an Vision of the Soul
!tmadra=7a A witness of the self beyond the intellectual consciousness vide also Nirvic1r1 Sam1dhi
!tmaj61na Knowledge of the Self
!tmajyoti 26
A
The light of the Soul
!tm1kar=i92 !tma vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
!tman (also !tma) Lit. 'the breath; what is spontaneous'
Brahman present in all creatures The three attributes of !tman are Sat , Cit and !nanda !nanda. vide also Indra Agni Soma S3rya The individual Soul as seed of
!tma Nivedana One of the nine
A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga as the devotional act of self-offering to the Divine
!tma Rati The feelings for the Self as expressions of true
Bhakti
!tma Rati-s, as expressions of devotion and kinds of liberation, are five in number, namely S1m2pya, S1lokya, S1r3pya, Sar=7i and S1yujya. Rasa vide also Rati, Rasa
!tm1rpa9a Lit. 'offering to
!tma ' '
The attitude of offering own action as part of
P3j1 (worship) to sanctify the ordinary existence
It is an attitude of giving back to the Divine what really belongs to the Divine. Therefore the ordinary work with hands and body becomes Mudr1, the ordinary talk becomes Japa, the act of eating becomes Homa or Yaj6a, the ordinary walk becomes Pradak=i9a, the act of lying down becomes Pra91ma, the act of breathing becomes Agnihotra, etc. This is a high form of P3j1, a continuous awareness of the Self.
!tma )akti The transcendental awareness as one of the )akti-s flowing through Su=umn1 N182 as a result of balancing of Pr19a )akti and Manas )akti, the union of space ( !k10a) and time ( K1la) It is the spiritual kind of energy (vide
)akti) allowing the occurrence of Anubh3ti experience.
!tmavidy1 The knowledge of the Self
Atri $=i vide also Sapta4=i
Name of a
Aty1h1ra Excessive eating as one of the seven
Varjana-s
vide also Mit1h1ra
Au882y1na P27ha vide U882y1na P27ha 27
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Au% vide O%
Au=adhi vide O=adhi
Avadh3ta Lit. 'one who has rejected all his worldly feelings and obligations' A highly spiritual person
Avair1gya Attachment as one of the eight
Bh1va-s
vide also Vair1gya
!vara9a Lit. 'what covers' The covering of the inner reality on the path of
Yoga
!vara9a is one of the two functions of M1y1 as the illusion which covers the inner reality. One of the best ways of removing !vara9a is the practice of Pr191y1ma. It is a fundamental concept that only by removing the covering ( !vara9a) the higher awareness can be experienced.
!vara9a Devat1 A deity of covering There are three !vara9a Devat1-s namely K1me0var2, Vajre0var2 and Bhagam1lin2 Bhagam1lin2, the deities covering the light. vide also Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprad a Cakra Sarvasiddhiprada
Avaroha9a The act of descending as opposed to
!roha9a
Avasth1 Lit. 'condition' State of human existence There are three states ( Avasth1traya) viz. J1grat (waking), Svapna (dreaming) and Su=upti (deep sleep), each one having specific V4tti-s. Beyond Avasth1traya there is one more state known as Tur2ya .
Avasth1 Pari91ma Transformation of state of mind ( Citta) accompanying the
Avasth1traya vide Avasth1
Avat1ra (from Avat4i i.e. to descend) Incarnation of the Divine upon earth The best known
Avidy1 28
Avat1ra-s are the ten forms of Vi=9u.
Pari91ma-s as a result of Sa%yama
A
Kle0a-s; an error of perception; a human experience of the cosmic M1y1 Avidy1 is regarded as the cause of Kle0a-s, its control means the control of all other Kle0a-s. Ignorance, one of the five
Avirati The state of lack of due restraint as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s
Avi0e0a Lit. 'without difference' One of the four
Gu9aparva-s in which Savic1r1 Sam1dhi is experienced
Avyakta Avyakta The non-manifested principle of creation, the primary germ of differentiation This state is devoid of Parabrahman or @0vara .
Prak4ti, the state of non-
N1mar3pa. Avyakta is identified with Asat, Nirgu9a Brahman,
Sarvasiddhiprada Cakra, Vyakta, vide also K1me0var2, Sarvasiddhiprada
Ali^ga
Avyakta N1da The non-manifested sound vide also N1da
Avyakta Prak4ti The non-manifested nature, a synonym to
Ali^ga
!yam1tma Brahm1 'The extension of the Self is
Brahm1' is a celebrated statement in the Upani=ad-s
vide also Mah1v1kya
!yudha Devat1 A deity bearing weapons There are three deities presiding over the weapons of Dev2 Lalit1 namely P101^ku0a (noose and goad), Ik=ukoda98a (sugar-cane bow) and the B19a-s (the five flower arrows). Their weapons are P10a, A^ku0a, Ik=ukoda98a (or Dhanu=) and B19a-s. They are being kept symbolically by the Dev2 in her four hands. The !yudha Devat1 are to be found between Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra and Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprada Cakra.
!yurveda The science of the Indian medicine vide also Do=a
29
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
B Bagal1 Mukhi The eighth of the ten source of illusion
Mah1vidy1-s representing the unconscious plane of existence that is the
Bahira^ga The external stage, the outer expression as opposed to
Antara^ga
Bahiry1ga External worship known also as
B1hyay1ga
vide also Y1ga, Antary1ga Antary1ga
Bahi=kara9a The body as external instrument
Bahi=k4ta Dhauti Antardhauti-s as internal purification By its practice a Deva Deha may be obtained. One of the
Bahuda Lit. 'much-giving' One of the preliminary stages of of an !0rama
Sanny1sa life-style when the Sanny1sin Sanny1sin gives the best in the life
B1hy1k10a Outer space
B1hyap3j1 Lit. 'lower worship' A ritual practice of worship, using voice, objects or images
Devay1na vide also P3j1, Devay1na
B1hyay1ga vide Bahiry1ga, Y1ga Y1ga
Bala Bodily and mental strength or vitality as one of the four
B1l1ki Upani=ad-s vide also B1l1ki Vidy1
Name of a sage in the
B1l1ki Vidy1 The knowledge of
30
B1l1ki
K1ya Sampad-s
B
A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s that gradually deals with the knowledge of V1yu, !k10a !k10a and finally to the Puru=a of the sun. from the left and right eyes to Agni, V1yu
Puru=a
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Bali A gift offering as a sacrifice in the form of fruits and flowers
B19a Lit. 'arrow' A flower arrow of
K1ma
The five flower arrows of K1ma denoting the five Tanm1tra Tanm1tra-s (subtle forms of matter) are the lotus, the A0oka, the mango blossom, the jasmine and the blue lotus. vide also !yudha Devat1
Bandha Lit. 'binding, tying; connection with; uniting; joining' Contraction as yogic technique; lock
Bandha-s are techniques used to dissolve the psychic knots and redirect the resulting energy within the body. There is an esoteric and exoteric symbolism of Bandha-s. On a higher plane they are )akti union in the human body powerful and relevant Ku98alin2 yoga techniques towards )iva and )akti seen as Microcosm ( Pi98198a). There are three major Bandha-s namely J1landhara Bandha (Water-pipe lock), U882y1na Bandha (Upwards lock) and M3la Bandha (Root lock). vide also Bandhatraya
Bandhatraya The triple contraction using the three main Bandha and M3la M3la Bandha.
Bandha-s namely J1landhara Bandha, U882y1na U882y1na
Basti Lit. 'lower belly' One of the
+atkarma-s known also as Vasti.
As a yogic technique does the cleansing the abdominal area. It is of two kinds viz. )u=ka Basti.
Jala Basti and
Bh1dra Bh1dr a The day of full-moon in the month of
Bh1drapada
Bh1drapada The rainy month corresponding to parts of August /Septe mber vide also M1sa
Bhadr1sana The gentle
!sana
Bhaga Gracious God; happiness; prosperity; beauty, loveliness; love, sexual pleasure; the female organ; one of the twelve !ditya-s vide also Bhaj
Bhagam1lin2 31
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Lit. 'the one adorned with glory'
!vara9a Devat1-s presiding over the principle of existence of Mahat Bhagam1lin2 is also one of the Nity1 )akti-s. vide also Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprad a Cakra Sarvasiddhiprada Cakra One of the
Bhag1sana vide Tantr1sana
Bhagavad G2t1 The Song of the Lord The most famous Yoga work, a synthesis of Ved1nta Ved1nta, composed in the third or fourth century BCE.
Yoga, S1mkhya teachings, believed to be
Kuruk=etra vide also Arjuna, Kuruk=etra
Bhagavan Lit. 'God-like' One of God's names; a generic and popular name of God in India vide also Bhaj
Bhagavat Lit. 'the adorable one' One of )iva's names
Bhaga vide also Bhaj, Bhaga
Bhairava Lit. 'terrible, formidable'
)iva as a frightening aspect of the divine; a Tantric male participant
A name of
Bhairav2 Consort of
Bhairava as a particular form of Dev2; a Tantric female participant
Bhairav2 Cakra vide Cakra P3j1
Bhairav2 Tantra A name of a
Tantra
Bhaj Lit. 'to adore; enjoy; worship; bestow; share with; distribute' Sanskrit root of words like
Bhakti, Bhaga Bhaga, Bhagavan Bhagavan, Bhagavat Bhagavat, Bhajan Bhajan, Bhakta. Bhakta.
Bhajan Devotional song vide also Bhaj
Bhakta Devotee; one following the path of vide also Bhaj, Bh2ma Vidy1 32
Bhakti
B
Bhakti Devotion Devotion is seen as channelling of emotions towards God in order to experience the eternal existence. In the tradition, Bhakti is the only way God can be reached, as the experience of the Macrocosm (Brahm198a) in the Microcosm ( Pi98198a). The Bhakti M2m1%s1 S3tra describes devotion as being "Supreme longing for the Lord". It is said that the Lord becomes perceptible through devotion. Bh1vac381ma9i says: "Nothing is accomplished by constant Japa, sacrifices and austerities which torture the body, because without deep devotion Yantra-s and Mantra-s do not yield fruit". vide also Bhaj
Bhakticcheda Any decoration or marks on forehead, arms, cheeks, nose, breasts, etc. as an expression of devotion to Devat1-s.
Bhakti M1rga The path of devotion vide also Bhakti Yoga
Bhakti Yoga The Yoga of Devotion The last stage in Yoga, considered to be the Yoga of the 21st century. It has nine limbs ( A^ga-s) namely )r1va9a (listening to holy scriptures), K2rtana (singing devotional songs), Smarana (remembering the Divine), P1da Sev1na (service to the feet of the Lord), Arcan1 or P3j1 (ritual worship), Vandana (prostration before the image of the Lord), D1sya (slavish devotion to the Lord), S1khya (friendship) and !tma Nivedana (Self-offering (Self-offering to the Lord). In Bhakti Yoga there are five main states or conditions ( Bh1va-s) namely )1nta (tranquil), D1sya (slavish), V1tsalya (affectionate), S1khya (friendly) and M1dhurya (sweet). vide also )uddha Bhakti
Bhakti Yoga Sam1dhi The Sam1dhi as a result of
Bhakti Yoga practice
Bh1^g A drink made of Indian hemp leaves
Bh1rati In the
Veda-s the word signifying the truth ( Satya); a high educational institution
Bhasma Ashes used for spiritual purpose
Bhastrik1 Lit. 'causing the sound of bellows' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Pr191y1ma
Bh1=ya Lit. 'an explanatory work, exposition, commentary' Work of a spiritual kind
Bh1va 33
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Lit. 'attitude; true condition; reality; disposition' State, emotion, devotional sentiment In Bhakti Yoga there are five states as devotional sentiments known also as Rasa-s. As states or conditions accompanying the Li^ga (as transmigratory soul) there are eight Bh1va-s namely Dharma, Adharma, J61na, Aj61na, Vair1gya, Avair1gya, Ai0varya, Anai0varya. As states of human personalities there are three Bh1va-s namely Pa0u Bh1va, V2ra Bh1va and Divya Bh1va. vide also Tantra
Bh1vana Bh1vana Lit. 'imagining' Contemplation, reflection; feeling; thought It is also a kind of worship (meditation) of captivated by the Bh1vana-s (feelings).
Dev2 (vide Y1ga). In the tradition it is said that God is
Bhaya Fear as on of the seven
Varjana-s
Fear is seen as a product of duality vide also Abhaya Mudr1
Bhay1naka Terror as one of the
Rasa-s
Bheru981 One of the
Nity1 )akti-s
Bhoga Lit. 'enjoyment' The worldly experience as a path to spiritual growth in the Indriya Indriya-s
Tantra; any worldly experience attached to
Bhog1dhi=7h1na Living organism
Bhr1mar2 Lit. 'causing the sound of wasp' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Pr191y1ma This kind of Pr191y1ma will result in the experience of An1hata )abda. vide also Ras1nanda Yoga
Bhr1ntidar0ana The state of wrong perception as one of the nine
Bh4gu vide Brahm1
Bh4gu V1ru9i Vidy1 The knowledge of 34
Bh4gu V1ru9i
Citta Vik=epa-s
B
A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) refers to the gradual knowledge of the five beyond which the Sagu9a Brahman can be realized.
Ko0a-s
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Bhr3madhya The space between the eyebrows as
Cakra K=etra of !j61 Cakra
vide also )1%bhav2 Mudr1
Bhuja^g1sana The cobra
!sana
Bhuja^g2 Lit. 'female-serpent' A name for
Ku98alin2
Bhuja^gin2 Mudr1 The she-serpent
Mudr1 one of the Mudr1 Bhanda-s
Bh3ma Vidy1 The knowledge of the world
Sanatkum1ra. The disciple A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s, as related to N1rada by Sanatkum1ra. Manas, Sa%kalpa Sa%kalpa, Citta Citta, Dhy1na Dhy1na and finally to is led to understand gradual stages from V1k, Manas Pr19a. Here are also enumerated the qualifications of a good devotee ( Bhakta) namely Satya, Vij61na, Mati Mati, )raddh1 )raddh1, Ni=7h1 Ni=7h1 and K4ti. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Bh3mi Earth vide also Bh3ta
Bh3mik1 vide Yoga Avasth1
Bh3mitattva vide P4thiv2tattva
Bh3pura Lit. 'region (plan) of earth'
Trailokyamohana Cakra vide Trailokyamohana
Bh3rloka The Earth plane vide Loka
Bh3 Sam1dhi The underground
Sam1dhi
Bh3ta Lit. 'consisting of; being' Gross element of the human body; gross form of matter; animated being 35
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Also known as Pa6cabh3ta-s, Mah1bh3ta-s or Sth3la Mah1 Bh3ta-s. There are five Bh3ta-s Tejas or Agni or Vahni (fire), Ap or Toya (water), namely: !k10a or Vyoma (ether), V1yu (air), Tejas Bh3mi or P4thiv2 (earth), all produced from the Tamas Gu9a of Prak4ti and are parts of the thirty-six Tattva-s. For the purpose of Mudr1 the five fingers correspond to the five Bh3ta-s. The order of their higher and higher absorption is P4thiv2, Ap, Tejas, V1yu, !k10a, corresponding to the Devat1-s such as Brahm1, Vi=9u, Rudra, @0vara , and Sad10iva, the later seen as parallel to the five parts of O% Mantra (i.e. A, U, M, N1da and Bindu).
Bh3t1di Rudiment-matter, original element Source of
!k10a (ether) as the first Bh3ta (gross matter) of S4=7i.
Bh3ta )uddhi Purification of the gross elements ( Bh3ta-s) of the body It is an essential ritual before worship or any making of ritual art items.
Bhuvana In the
Veda-s the world (including the solar system) as plane of existence
Bhuvane0var2 Lit. 'ruler of the spheres' spheres ' The fourth of the ten Mah1vidy1-s represents the projection of the consciousness as infinite space and therefore the holder of all existence
Bhuvane0var2 B2ja vide Hr2%
Bhuvarloka The region between the earth and the sun; the sky A Loka inhabited by
Siddha-s and Muni-s.
B2bhatsa Disgust as one of the
Rasa-s
B2ja (also written as V2ja) Lit. 'seed; germ; semen; source; origin; primary cause; truth as the cause of being; basis for the mind'
B2ja as part of creation that emerged from N1da
B2j1kar=i92 B2ja Sarv101paripuraka aka Cakra vide also Sarv101paripur The attractive power of
B2j1k=ara Seed syllable or
B2ja Mantra
B2ja Mantra Mantra having three to nine syllables, synonym to B2j1k=ara; an expression of a deity in a Mantra form. A
Bila Siddhi 36
B
The power of opening vide also Siddhi
Bilva Tree of the Lord )iva known also as wood-apple, Bel tree or scientifically Aegle Marmelos, the only sacred tree of the Lord )iva
Bilvapattra Leaf of
Bilva tree
Bindu Drop; dot; mark; source
Bindu as K1ra9a Bindu Bindu, then K1rya Bindu Bindu, proceeds N1da and represents the infinite In Tantra, Bindu potentialities of the larger universe ( Brahm198a) about to be unfolded. The ninth Cakra Sarv1nandamaya Cakra) of the )r2 Yantra is also called Bindu. There are three Bindu-s at the (Sarv1nandamaya )akti M1y1 and )ivacentre of )r2 Yantra, namely )iva M1y1, )akti )iva-Sakti -Sakti M1y1. Their colours are white, red and colourless, their elements are Sun, Moon and Fire symbolized by the double Bindu of Visarga and single Bindu of Anusv1ra. The image of Bindu made of Visarga and Anusv1ra is described metaphorically in B4had1ra9yaka B4had1ra9yaka Upani=ad (2.1.20) and other Upani=ad-s as a spider. In Saundaryalahar2 (7) the Divine Mother Tripurasundar2 is described with her face resembling the moon, her breasts like the frontal globes of the forehead of a young elephant, wearing mini bells, therefore equating Tripurasundar2 Tr ipurasundar2 with Bindu. vide also Bindutraya Bindutraya
Binduma98ala Cakra vide Sarv1nandamaya Sarv1nandamaya Cakra
Bindutraya The threefold
Bindu at the centre of the )r2 Tantra
Bodhana An essential rite to awakening (through worship) a work of ritual art
Brahm1 Lord Brahm1 one of the Hindu trinity ( Trim3rti); the principle and manifestation of creation Lord Brahm1 presides over the creation of the Universe ( Brahm198a). He is the personal Creator manifested from the impersonal Universal Spirit ( Brahman). The first created beings by Brahm1 were the ten lords viz. Mar2ci , Atri, A^giras, Pulastya, Pulaha, Kratu, Vasi=7ha, Pracetas (or Dak=a), Bh4gu and N1rada . They all are known under the name Praj1pati or Mah1 $=i-s. vide also Sapta4=i
Brahmac1rin Brahm1 ' ' A follower of Brahmacarya vide also !0rama
Lit. 'student of
Brahmacarya Continence as one of the five
Yama-s
It has to be seen more as awareness of actions of a person than abstinence from sexual experience.
Brahmacaryaprati=7h1 37
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Brahmacarya is firmly established A Yog2 possessing Brahmacaryaprati=7h1 becomes full of vitality.
A state in which
Brahmadv1ra The door of
Brahm1
Brahmagranthi Brahm1 ' ' The Granthi located in the Agnikha98a It represents the attachment to Lobha (greed) and K1ma (desire) of Pa6c1gni-s vide Granthi.
Lit. 'knot of
Brahmaj61na Spiritual wisdom as knowledge of the true reality
Brahmak1ra The active state of
Citta in which identifies itself with the Self
Brahmak1ra V4tti The V4tti of
Brahmak1ra state
Brahmaloka vide Satyaloka,
Loka
Brahman (from the root
B4h i.e. to expand)
Lit. 'expansion, evolution, growth' In Ved1nta the impersonal Universal Spirit known also as
)iva in Tantra.
Sagu9a and Nirgu9a. T1raka , Tantra Tantra vide also M1y1, T1raka
It has two aspects viz.
Br1hma9a Lit. 'one who has divine knowledge' A Brahmin priest; a specific kind of Vedic literature (900-700 BCE) He is one of the four Vedic priests ( $tvija-s) who chants the hymns of the Atharva Veda while performing incantations ( Mantra-s). A Brahmin priest is assisted by three other helper priests viz. Agn2dhra, Br1hma91cchansin and Pot4 . As spiritual leader he belongs to the highest caste (Var9a) in the Vedic tradition. vide also Veda
Br1hma91cchansin Br1hma9a ' ' In the Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Br1hma9a priest
Lit. 'the one reciting after the
Brahma N182 A channel of energy within the
Brahm198a Brahm1 's Lit. ' Brahm1 's egg' 38
Citra N182
B
Macrocosm; universe; world; cosmic body There are endless Brahm198a-s coexisting, each having own gods, Brahma for creation, Vi=9u for preservation and Rudra for destruction (vide Trim3rti). Brahm198a could also be seen as Cittav4tti of Brahman or a product of the cosmic thinking manifestation therefore is unreal. vide also A98api98a, K=udra Brahm198a, Pi98198a
Brahm192 vide Trim3rti
Brahmarandhra Brahm1 's Lit. ' Brahm1 's opening' An opening above the Sahasr1ra Cakra through where the Soul is said to pass on death and the door between two realms of existence
Brahma Tantra All that is taught in the
Veda-s
Brahmav1din One who explains the
Veda-s
Brahmaveda The Veda of sacred spells and charms, i.e.
Atharva Veda
Brahmavedi The Brahm1's altar
Brahmayoga The highest kind of initiation in the
Tantra S1dhana in which devotion is the essence
B4haspati Lit. 'lord of prayer or devotion'
Guru or preceptor of the Deva-s; the name for planet Jupiter vide also !nandamaya Vidy1
B4haspati V1caspati B4haspati the lord of speech and prayer; one of the eight Devas3-s as an aspect of B4haspati
B4hat (from the root B4h i.e. to expand) Lit. 'abundant, vast, large' In the
Veda-s a name for Brahman
Buddha (from the root Budh i.e. to wake up) Lit. 'the enlightened one' An spiritual liberated man, founder of Buddhism, who lived in the sixth century BCE
Buddha is regarded in Hinduism as an incarnation ( Avat1ra) of Vi=9u.
Buddhi (from the root Budh i.e. to wake up) Lit. 'intellect, re ason' The discriminating aspect of mind; intellect as a cognitive faculty 39
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide also !k10a
Buddhimaya Ko0a vide Vij61namaya Ko0a
Buddhitattva The Tattva of Buddhi Buddhi
Buddhy1kar=i92 Buddhi The attractive power of Buddhi vide Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripur aka Cakra Sarv101paripuraka Cakra
Budha The planet Mercury, one of the
40
Navagraha-s
C
C Caitanya Consciousness; the Universal Soul vide also Cetana
Caitra The month corresponding to parts of March/April vide also M1sa
Cakra Lit. 'wheel; circle' Centre (vortex) of energy and level of aware ness In the human body there are seven major Cakra-s viz. M3l1dh1ra, Svadhi=7h1na, Ma9ip3ra, An1hata, Vi0uddha (or Vi0uddhi), !j61 and Sahasr1ra. Known also as Padma-s (lotuses) the Cakra-s are located in the S3k=ma )ar2ra body influencing also the other two )ar2ra -s. Round the centre of energy there are expansions producing the appearances of the petals of a lotus flower, in fact they are starting points of energy channels ( N182-s). When opened the Cakra -s become gates of connection between the three )ar2ra )ar2ra-s therefore the physical consciousness may thus have access to other planes. The Cakra-s represent also the cycle of creation, preservation and destruction (absorption).
Loka vide also Pa6c1gni, Loka
Cakra K=etra Cakra trigger point in the spinal cord on the front surface of the body Only Svadhi=7h1na, Ma9ip3ra, An1hata, Vi0uddhi and !j61 Cakra-s have Cakra K=etra-s. The horizontal projection of a
Cakra P3j1 Circle worship Tantric rite of which
Bhairav2 Cakra is the most important.
Cakrar1ja Lit. 'royal wheel' Another name for
)r2 Cakra
Cakr1sana vide Tantr1sana
Cakra )uddhi The process of purification of
Cakra-s
Cakre0vara Cakra P3j1 as a Tantric Guru vide also Cakre0var2
The leader of a
41
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Cakre0var2 )akti presiding over a Cakra P3j1 vide also Cakre0vara
A generic name for a
Cak=u The third eye, the eye of
)iva; the physical eye
Cak=us is linked to the renunciation to desired (vide Ana^ga). vide also Netra, J61nendriya
The opening of
C1mu981 A terrific aspect of
Dev2 as destroyer of Ca98a and Mu98a
Ca982 (or Ca98ik1 ) Lit. 'an ardent, passionate woman' A popular name of
Dev2
Ca98id1s th
Poet and initiate of 15 century Bengal vide also R1mi
Ca98ik1 vide Ca982
Candra Lit. 'shining; the moon'
Navagraha-s; the Devat1 of I81 I81 N182; the feminine
The moon or the lunar phase as one of the kind of energetic; a Devat1 vide also Candrakha98a
Candradv1ra The passage of the moon
Candrakal1 The increase/ decrease of the moon's disc in twenty-four hours, i.e. one sixteenth of the moon's disk The moon is so personified as twenty-eight
Nity1 )akti-s
Candrak1nti Moonlight
Candrakha98a Vi0uddhi and !jn1 Cakra-s and Rudragranthi Rudragranthi The presiding deity is Candra, the Gu9a is Sattva, the corresponding cosmic planes are Taparloka and Satyaloka. Group containing
Candrama98ala Moon's halo, a representation of
Candra N182 A synonym for 42
I81 N182
)r2 Cakra
C
Candra0ekhara Lit. 'the one who has the moon as diadem' A name of
)iva
Caturtha Pr191y1ma Lit. 'the fourth
Pr191y1ma '
Catu=p27ha -s' P27ha -s' The four P27ha-s are K1mar3pa, P3r9ag P3r9agiri J1landhara and U882y1na. U882y1na. P3r9agiri, J1landhara vide also Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprad a Cakra, Sarv1nandamaya Sarv1nandamaya Sarv1nandamaya Cakra, Siddhap27ha Siddhap27ha Sarvasiddhiprada
Lit. 'the four
Cau0atti Yogin2 The sixty-four
Yogin2-s
Cela Disciple
Cetana Lit. 'the one that illuminates' Consciousness vide also Caitanya
Ch1ndogya Upani=ad One of the most important
Upani=ad from where many Veda Vidy1-s are extracted
Ch1ya Shade, shadow; reflection; protection; giving protection (as a name of
)iva)
Ch1ya Puru=a The consciousness beyond
Buddhi
Ch1y1 Up1san1 Tr17aka technique when the practitioner practi tioner does the gazing on own shadow (from sun or moon)
Cidagni Cidvahni vide Cidvahni
Cidagniku98a The altar of the fire of consciousness It is from where
Dev2 was born in Her physical form.
Cid1k10a Lit. 'space of knowledge' Mind space as space of consciousness; the cosmic universal mind The dark colour space visualized in front of the closed eyes in which is experienced the visual aspect of mental energy is the Cid1k10a experience. Only when Ku98alin2 reaches Sahasr1ra Cakra there is the full experience of Cid1k10a.
Cid1k10a Dh Dh1ra91 1ra91 43
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
The practice of meditation on
Cid1k10a
Cidr3pa The pure consciousness as pure thought; consciousness with form vide Cit
Cidagni) Cidvahni (also Cidagni The celestial fire, the fire of consciousness corresponding to the heart (
H4d) in the human body
)akti S3 S3tra tra says: "Consciousness is fire because by its nature it consumes the universe". vide also N1ciket1gni Vidy1
Cikits1 Science of medicine as kind of
)1stra
Cinnamast1 The fifth of the ten
Mah1vidy1-s
It represents the end of ordinary existence, the essential step before the emergence of a new consciousness.
Cint1ma9i Lit. 'thought gem' The gem which grants all wishes The shinning "precious stone" is the pure mind covered by the veils of desire (that is to be removed by various practices). It is well described in Brahm198a Pur19a and Rudra Y1mala.
Cit Lit. 'to be conscious of, know, perc eive' The pure consciousness; the universal consciousness freed from any conditioning vide also Sa%vit
Citr1 Lit. 'bright; excellent' One of the
Nity1 )akti-s
Citragupta Lit. 'the hidden auditor' The one recording every action Various interpretations are given who is the one doing that. It can be regarded as the collector of information found in the Cid1k10a.
Citra N182 A channel of energy within the
Su=umn1 N182
Citri92 vide Padmin2
Citsvar3pa The formless pure consciousness
Citta 44
C
(from the root
Cit i.e. to be aware)
Lit. 'reflecting, thinking; aimed at' The conscious, subconscious and unconscious layers of mind and their functions reflecting the
Cit
The two active states of Citta are Vi=ayak1ra and Brahmak1ra, its supporting organ is the Manas. From the point of view of J61t1 J61na J6eya, Citta is the one who knows. As levels of access to different planes there are three kinds of Citta-s namely Citta (as an individual natural expression), Cid1k10a (as cosmic mind) and Nirmana Citta (as divine or causal mind). vide also !k10a, Pari91ma
Cittabh3mi State of mental plane as kind of consciousness There are five Cittabh3mi-s (according to Ek1gra and Niruddha.
Vy1sa Bh1=ya) namely K=ipta, M38ha, Vik=ipta Vik=ipta,
Cittakar=i92 Citta vide Sarv10aparipuraka Sarv10aparipuraka Cakra The attractive power of
Citta Pras1dana In Yoga the attitude towards obtaining purification of the mind
Citta Pras1dana-s viz. Maitr2, Karu91, Mudit1 and Upek=a.
There are four
Cittasa%vit Cittasa%vit The experience of merging of on An1hata Cakra
Cit with its reflection (i.e. Citta) acquired by practicing Sa%yama
Citta0uddhi Purification of the mind vide also )uddhi, Citta
Citta Vik=ep1 Yoga known also as Antar1ya Antar1ya (impediment) There are nine Citta Vik=ep1-s namely Vy1dhi, Sty1na, Sa%0aya, Pram1da, !lasya, Avirati, Bhr1ntidar0ana, Alabdhabh3mikatva and Anavasthitatva as described in Yoga S3tra-s (I.30). vide also Vik=epasahabh3, Vik=epa The mental obstructive destruction in
Cittav4tti Activity in (Puru=a)
Citta Citta as a cognitive experience, a superimposition on the true nature of the human being
There are five Cittav4tti-s according to Pata6jali namely Pram1na, Viparyaya, Vikalpa, Nidr1 and Sm4ti, all as conscious experiences in Citta. For the condition of state of Yoga it is necessary to restrict the activities in the mind by Abhy1sa and Vair1gya.
Cittav4ttinirodha Cessation of
Cittav4tti-s as Pata6jali's definition of Yoga in Yoga S3tra-s.
C381ma9i Crest jewel as
Dev2's gem 45
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
D D1haka The J17har1gni (digestive fire) of burning (heating) vide also Sarvaj61namay2
Dahar1k10a Lit. 'small space' The space of the lower three
Cakra-s in the human body
Dahar1k10a Dh1ra91 The practice of meditation on the lower
Cakra-s (i.e. M3l1dh1ra, Svadhi=7h1na and Ma9ipura Ma9ipura)
Dahara Vidy1 The knowledge of the small A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s which could be known by meditation into the heart (H4daya ) as the open door for the inner !k10a leading to the full knowledge of !k10a vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Daiv2sampat Daiv2sampat Divine quality
Bhagavad G2t1 are mentioned twenty-six divine qualities namely Abhaya, Sattvasa%0uddhi, J61nayogavyavasthiti J61nayogavyavasthiti, D1na D1na, Dana Dana, Yaj6a Yaj6a, Sv1dhy1ya Sv1dhy1ya, Tapas Tapas, !rjava !rjava, Ahi%s1, Satya Satya, Akrodha Akrodha, Ty1ga Ty1ga, )1nti )1nti, Apai0una Apai0una, Day1 Day1, Aloluptva Aloluptva, M1rdava M1rdava, Hr2 Hr2, Ac1pala Ac1pala, Tejas, K=am1 K=am1, Dh4ti Dh4ti, )auca )auca, Adroha Adroha and N1tim1nit1 N1tim1nit1.
In the
Daiv2 V1k It is how was called the Sanskrit language during the Vedic period
*1kin2 The )akti residing in
M3l1dh1ra M3l1dh1ra Cakra
Dak=a Lit. 'able, intelligent; strong' One of the !ditya-s
Praj1pati-s known also as Pracet1s considered to be Dev2's father; one of the twelve
Dak=i9a Right side; having somebody to the right side as a mark of honour (as opposed to left); one of the sacrificial fires (vide Agni)
V1ma i.e. to the
Dak=i9a is also a donation, fee or gift to a priest or Guru.
Dak=i9a Agni One of the three sacrificial fires, the southern fire of the altar of sacrifice In the human body it is located in the heart area, esoterically is the level of consciousness of An1hata Cakra. 46
D
vide also Agni Agni
Dak=i91c1ra The right-hand division of
Tantra also known as Dak=ina M1rga
Dak=i9a M1rga Lit. 'path of the right' vide Dak=i91c1ra
Dak=i91m3rti The Guru of Gods
Dak=i91varta A shell whose convolutions are oriented towards the right
Dak=i91yana Sun's progress south of the equator (from 21 June to 21 Dec) expressing the southwards way to Yama's quarter; the dark path For the departed soul it offers the experience of return to the material plane in a new body.
Dh3mra and R1tri, i.e. the consciousness will
vide also Uttar1yana
D1mara Kind of spiritual writing work promulgated by
)iva
Damaru A hand drum traditionally the instrument of subduing of Lord
)iva (vide)
Dana Control of senses as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
D1na Alms giving as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Da98a Stick
Da98a Dhauti Cleaning by a stick as one of the
H4d Dhauti-s in order to cure the heart diseases
Danta Dhauti Dhauti-s There are four yogic techniques under Danta Dhauti namely Danta M3la M3la Dhauti, Jihv1 )odhana, Kar9a Dhauti and Kap1larandhra Dhauti. Cleaning the teeth area as one of the four
Danta M3la Dhauti Washing of the teeth as one of the
Danta Dhauti-s
Darbha Dried Ku0a used in religious ceremonies
Dar0ana 47
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Lit. 'vision, view; understanding; doctrine' The cognitive principle; system of philosophy; meeting with a spiritual purpose; sight of a Guru.
Deva or
vide also +a8 Dar0ana
Da0a Mah1vidy1 The ten great sciences as deities vide Mah1vidy1
Da0av1yu The ten vital airs vide V1yu
Dasn1mi Lit. 'ten names' The ten orders of mendicants (founded by
)a^kara) protected by the N1ga-s (naked ascetics)
D1sya (also known as Kai%karya) One of the nine A^ga-s of one of the Rasa-s
Bhakti Yoga as the devotional act of slavish devotion to the Lord, also
The ideal service was done by
Lak=ma9a to R1ma as R1ma's servant.
Daurmanasya The mental activity of being depressed As one of the four
Vik=epasahabh3-s it is connected to the Manomaya Ko0a.
Day1 Compassion as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Deha Body as vehicle and media of actions ( Karma-s)
De0a Space; region; centre of concentration synonym to
Deva
(from the root
!dh1ra Padma
Div i.e. to cast, throw, therefore expressing the action as manifestation of
gods) A god, deity; spirit; spiritual being
Deva-s are manifestations and functions of Cit Cit (Universal Consciousness) at various levels and as such they are creations of )akti as the kinetic aspect of Cit . Their range of actions extend from the world of Manu=ya to Sagu9a Brahman. The fundamental concept about Deva-s is that they manifest both externally and internally to the human being ( Manu=ya ) and as such become accessible through cognition and experience. vide also )iva )akti
Deva Bh1=1 vide Sa%sk4ta
Devadar0ana The seeing of Gods 48
D
Devadatta Lit. 'the God-given' The V1yu producing the function of yawning vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarv1^gasundar2 Sarv1^gasundar2
Deva Deha Divine body
Devaloka Heaven, the world of Gods
Devamaithuna The cohabitation of the Gods as expression of
)iva )akti form of union
Devan1gari Lit. 'divine writing' The Sanskrit alphabet vide also M1t4k1
Devas3 The procreating Gods as one class of deities ( Ga9a Devat1-s) There are eight Devas3 -s, each having specific functions, namely Agni G4hapati, Soma Vanaspati, Savit4 Savit4 Satyaprasava, Rudra Rudra Pa0upati, B4haspati B4haspati V1caspati, Indra Indra Jye= Jye=7ha 7ha, Mitra Mitra Satya and Varuna Dharmapati. They all manifest within the human body.
Devasu=i Lit. 'divine tube'
V1yu-s located in the centre of the lotus of the heart The gates have to be seen as the openings in the K1ra9a )ar2ra through which the five major V1yu-s are born within the Suk=ma )ar2ra. The gates are located as four towards the four quarters (Sam1na to the north, Vy1na to the south, Ap1na to the west, Pr19a to the east) and one upwords namely Ud1na. Each gate possesses specific Siddhi-s, which have to be overcome. Beyond the five gates it is Para%jyoti=, the J2v1tm1 Itself. vide also G1yatr2 Vidy1 The gates of the five major
Devat1 God or Goddess; Deity vide Deva
Devay1na The path of Gods A spiritual path using Gods as vehicles to attain the knowledge of
Sagu9a Brahman.
Devayoni Spirit, demigod Spirits said to people Mount Kail1sa and Mount Meru. )r2 Gane=a after receiving the teaching of the Tantra-s from his father Lord )iva, preached them first to Devayoni on Mount Kail1sa.
Dev2 49
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
The Great Goddess
Dev2 as Sat2, Um1, P1rvat2 and Gaur2 is the spouse of )iva. She is the ruler of all the Universes (Brahm198a-s) having countless names according to Her different qualities and actions. vide also K4p1 Ka71k=a, !yudha !yudha Devat1, Lalit1
Dev2 Ku98alin2 )akti as Ku98alin2
Dev2p27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of a part of
Dev2's body as Sat2
vide also P27ha
Dev2 Up1sana Dev2 worship
Dhairya Fortitude
Dhairy1kar=i92 Dhairya vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripura Sarv101paripuraka ka Cakra The attractive power of
Dhairyat1 Calmness as a result of practicing
Praty1h1ra
Dhana6jay1 The V1yu producing the function of distension vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvasaubh1gyad1yi92 Sarvasaubh1gyad1yi92
Dhanur1sana The bow
!sana
Dhanu= Bow vide also Ik=ukoda98a, Indradhanu= Indradhanu=
Dh1ra91 (from the root Dh4 i.e. to hold, preserve, support) (also Dh1ra91) Lit. 'the act of holding or maintaining' Concentration In Yoga one of the eight
A^ga-s of the A=71^ga Yoga of Pata6jali
Dh1ra9a Yantra A kind of Yantra to be worn by the devotee as an amulet used for protection of all kinds or acquisition of material gains or personal qualities
Dharma (from the root Dh4 i.e. to hold, preserve, support) Lit. 'right conduct' Higher duty, virtue (or property of time 50
Pu9ya) one of the eight Bh1va-s; one of the Puru=1rtha-s; inherent
D
As inherent properties of time Dharma-s are of three kinds viz. At2ta, Vartam1na and An1gata, the process of time difference is called Adhvabheda. They affect each other all the time as the potential future time becomes present then past, and the past can influence the present and therefore generates a potential state. Dharma is a play of Karma, in which both cause and effect are being present in every action, but Dharma emphasizes the order ( $ta ) in action ( Karma). vide also Adharma
Dharm1dharma Merit and demerit
Dharmam1rga Dhar mam1rga The path of virtue
Dharmamegha Sam1dhi Sam1dhi in which the Yog2 gives up even the idea of reaching Kaivalya At this point all V1san1-s are buried and the Yog2 has access to a different reality. The Karma-s (actions) and Kle0a-s (afflictions) do not create any effect i.e. the Yog2 is free from the manifestations of Prak4ti and the products of the three Gu9a-s, the state of J2vanmukti is reached, the Yog2 becomes a Siddha. vide also Sat Cit !nanda, Mah1v1kya
The highest point of
Dharma Pari91ma Transformation of the nature of mind (as
Citta) accompanying the Pari91ma-s as a result of
Sa%yama
Dharma01l1 A resting place for pilgrims
Dh1tr2 (from the root Dh4 i.e. to hold, preserve, support) Earth
Dh1tu Lit. 'ingredient; element; primitive matt er' An essential element of the body
Meda (fat), M1%sa M1%sa (flesh), Rakta Rakta There are seven Dh1tu-s ( Sapta Dh1tu-s) viz. Asthi (bone), Meda (blood), Tvak Tvak (skin), Majj1 Majj1 (marrow) and )ukra (semen). They are the abodes of the seven )akti-s presiding over the seven Cakra -s and represented by the seven trunks of the ele phant in M3l1dh1ra Cakra as symbol of creativity.
Dhauti One of the +atkarma-s the Dhauti-s are of four kinds namely Dhauti and M3la )odhana
Antar Dhauti, Danta Dhauti, H4d
Dhenu Veda-s the milch cow representing the power of creation complementing V4=abha (the bull) In the Vedic tradition Dhenu is the representation of V1k . It has four udders representing the Mantra-s Sv1h1, Va=a7 Va=a7, Hanta Hanta and Svadh1 Svadh1. Sv1h1 and Va=a7 Va=a7 feed the Deva-s, Hanta feeds the men and Svadh1 -s. Dhenu has to be seen as symbol of female principle in the Veda-s, Sva dh1 the Pit4 -s. a parallel concept to Prak4ti in Yoga. It is also relevant to know that the "moo" sound of a cow is the opposite of Mantra O%, i.e. the "moo" sound is the sound of the creation, the O% sound of the In the
absorption. 51
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Dh4ti Fortitude as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Dh3m1v1t2 The seventh of the ten
Mah1vidy1-s
Called also "the smoky one" she represents the ultimate destruction, a kind of existence when everything in the universe is in a state of darkness and inertia.
Dh3mra Lit. 'smoke-coloured, smoky' A certain experience leading to the path of
Dak=i91yana
vide also Dh3mrali^ga
Dh3mrali^ga Dh3mra in the M3l1dh1ra M3l1dh1ra Cakra as form taken by )iva It is also known as Svayamb3 Li^ga. vide also )ivali^ga The experience of
Dhvani The audible sound
Dhy1na
(from the root
Dhyai i.e. to contemplate, imagine)
Awareness as unbroken state of thoughts flow This is a process of expansion of consciousness in which time (representing )iva) and space (representing )akti) are brought together. In Yoga it is one of the eight A^ga-s of the A=71^ga Yoga of Pata6jali and an essential path to further human evolution. Through Dhy1na , Pratyak=atva is obtained. Consciousness is also compared with the fire ( Agni), which by its nature consumes the material universe. Dhy1na, as degree of finesse, is of three kinds, namely Sth3ladhy1na, S3k=madhy1na and Jyotirdhy1na. vide also Cidvahni
Dhy1na Mudr1 A kind of
Mudr1 used for meditation
Dhy1nasth1na Point of
Dhy1na Dhy1na practice inside the human body
Dhy1na Yoga Kind of
Yoga by practicing various kinds of meditat ion
Dhy1na Yoga Sam1dhi The Sam1dhi as a result of
Dhy1na Yoga practice
Digambara Lit. 'sky-clothed'
N1ga vide also Rakt1mbara
A naked mendicant, a
D2k=1 52
D
Initiation of a spiritual tradition In the
Tantra -s there are thirty-eight kinds of initiations, traditionally.
D2rgha Long
Divya Lit. 'divine'
S1dhaka in the Tantra -s In the Divya kind of S1dhaka the Sattva Gu9a is predominant. Divine quality; a kind of
Divyabh1va Divyab h1va One of the Bh1va-s as a state of human personality based on equilibrium and rhythm, therefore of Sattva nature
Divya Cak=u The divine eye i.e.
!jn1 Cakra
Divya )rotra Divine ear or hearing as a quality acquired after practicing
N1da Dh1ra9a
Divyaugha Lit. 'divine teacher' Three aspects of )iva as part of ()rotra) and the mouth ( V1k)
Navan1tha-s represented in the human body by the two ears
Do=a Deficiency; fault; detrimental effect; disease; humour of the body; defect
Pitta and Kapha As deficiencies of the body causes diseases there are three Do=a-s namely V1yu, Pitta as humours of the body. In the !yurveda system of Indian medicine the knowledge of Do=a-s is essential for balancing the body system. The term Do=a can be used to define any defect and has an extended use.
Dra=7a Lit. 'seer, observer ' A person capable of witnessing own actions and all life experiences (as
D40ya)
Dra=7a is !tman. A Dra=7a lives fully, surrenders and moves with the flow of life. vide also !tmadra=7a, Nirvic1r1 Nirvic1r1 Sam1dhi, S1 S1k=ibh1va S1k=ibh1va The real
Dra=7a D40ya The subject and object of seeing ( D4=7i)
D48hat1 Strength as a result of practicing
!sana-s
D4=7i Lit. 'seeing' The action of seeing; the space between the eyebrows The word is also taken as sense experience or beyond the sense experience and is associated with
!jn1 Cakra. 53
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
D40ya Lit. 'seen' All the objects known through senses ( Indriya-s) and all anything subject to cognition
A%0a-s of !k10a in the Pi98198a;
Du5kha Lit. 'unpleasant, pain, sorrow' The mental activity of being sad, distressed; suffering; grief The root of Du5kha is considered to be the duality ( Dvaita). Philosophically Du5kha as suffering is a necessity, a conditio sine qua non of non of liberation ( Mok=a ), a condition the human being has to rise above and put an end to suffe ring. As one of the four Vik=epasahabh3-s Du5kha is connected to the Vij61namaya Ko0a.
Sarvarogahara vide also Sarvarogahara
Cakra, Vimal1 Vimal1, Kle0a Kle0a
Durg1 Lit. 'fortress'
)akti as culmination of all positive attributes The ascent of Ku98alin2 )akti from M3l1dh1ra Cakra Cakra (where it takes the form of K1l2) culminates in Sahasr1ra Cakra when takes the form of Durg1. A form of
Durg1 B2ja vide Hr2%
Du% is also Durg1 B2ja (as per Varad1 Tantra)
D3rv1 Kind of grass scientifically known as Panicum Dactylon or Agrostis Linearis Meditation on
D3rv1 grass gives specific benefits.
D3t2 Lit. 'female messenger' One of the
Nity1 )akti-s known also as )ivad3t2
Dvaita Duality vide also Advaita
Dvandva A pair of opposites (e.g. cold and heat or happiness and sorrow); couple; face to face
Dvandva-s as pair of opposites could be overcome by steadiness in !sana.
Dv1para Yuga An age of the world consisting of 864,000 years vide Yuga
Dv1ra Gate, passage; aperture of the human body
Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 54
D
The thirty-two
Vidy1-s
Traditionally the thirty-two Vidy1 Vidy1-s are the followings: !k10a, Ak=ar1k=ara, Ak=i, !nandamaya, A^gu=7ham1tra A^gu=7ham1tra, Antar1ditya Antar1ditya, B1l1ki B1l1ki, Bh4gu Bh4gu V1ru9i, Bh3ma Bh3ma, Dahara , G1rgi G1rgi Ak=ara, G1yatr2, @0a @0a, Jyoti=1%jyotir , Madhu, Maitrey2, N1ciket1gni, Pa6c1gni, Paramapuru=a, Parya^ka Parya^ka, Pr191gnihotra Pr191gnihotra, Puru= Puru=aa, Sad S Sad ad, Sa%varga Sa%varga, )19dilya )19dilya, Satyak1ma Satyak1ma, Puru= )r2man Ny1sa, Udd1laka Udd1laka !ru9i, Udg2tha Udg2tha, Upakosala Upakosala, U=asta U=asta Kahola and Vai0v1nara Vai0v1nara. vide also Veda Vidy1
Dve=a (known also as Krodha) Lit. 'hatred" Repulsion; hate; anger, aversion; one of the five
Kle0a-s
P101^ku0a, Vair1gya Vair1gya vide also A^ku0a A^ku0a, P101^ku0a
55
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
E Ek1gra One-pointed state as one of the five
Cittabh3mi-s
Ek1grat1 Concentration on a single point (one-pointed), a state of doing only one action at a time
Ek1grat1 Pari91ma Transformation of concentration as one of the three
Pari91ma-s
vide also Lak=ana Pari91ma
Ekatattv1bhy1sa The practice of one principle only
Eloke02 The hair of goddess
56
K1l2 as symbol of mysteries of life
G
G Gaja Kara9i A yogic technique of vomiting in order to purify the
N182-s
Gamana The act of going or attaining vide also Ana^gamadan1tur1
Ga9a Devat1 Class of deities There is a wide range of literature.
Ga9a Devat1-s depending on the historical periods of India and kind of
vide also Devas3
Ga9apati A name of
Ga9e=a
Gandha Smell vide also Tanm1tra
Gandh1kar=i92 Gandha vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
G1ndh1r2 N182 The N182 connected to the left ankle
Sarvasaubh1gya Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka d1yaka Cakra, vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Sarvava0a^kar2 Sarvava0a^kar2 Sarvava0a^kar2
Gandharva Being in the heavenly world expert in music vide also Kail1sa
Gandhatattva The Tattva of Gandha
Ga9e=a The elephant-headed god, a son of )iva, a symbol of the primordial power, the starting point for the human access to the divine by overcoming all obstacles His vehicle is the mouse also a symbol of enduring and overcoming obstacles. vide also Ga^g1, Devayoni Devayoni
Ga^g1 Lit. 'that which goes with
Ga% 57
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
The river Ganges From its literal meaning
Ga^g1 is the remover of obstacles as Ga% is the B2ja Mantra for
Ga9e=a vide also Pray1ga, Trive92
G16j1 Indian hemp
G1rgi Ak=ara Vidy Vidy11 The G1rgi's knowledge about the Imperishable A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) named after G1rgi V1caknav2. This Vidy1 refers to !k10a pervading all in the past, present and future beyond which is the imperishable Brahman. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
G1rhapatya Agni One of the three sacrificial fires, the one kept as perpetual fire by a householder Traditionally a man received it from his father and has to be transmitted to his sons. In the human body it is located in the navel area. Esoterically this fire is the level le vel of consciousness attained in the Ma9ip3ra Cakra. vide also Agni
Garim1 Lit. 'heaviness' One of the eight ei ght yogic powers of becoming very heavy
A=7asiddhi vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi
Garu81sana The eagle
!sana
Gaur2 )iva (Rudra) A form of )akti. Her colour is white vide also Dev2
A spouse of
Gauripa77a A Yoni shaped pedestal upon which the
)ivali^ga is placed as representing )akti as holder.
G1yatr2 Lit. 'way of going; song, hymn'
Mantra of twenty-four syllables arranged as a triplet of eight syllables each It is also called S1vitr2, being addressed to S1vit4 (the (the Sun), so G1yatr2 Mantra is also S1vitr2 Mantra. G1yatr2 Dev2 (the goddess G1yatr2) is the presiding deity of this Mantra. The most sacred Vedic
G1yatr2 Vidy1 The knowledge of
G1yatr2
A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) that is considered to be the most important because it brings the knowledge of all the others by singing or uttering the G1yatr2 Mantra. The knowledge of this Vidy1 comes from Ch1ndogya and B4had1ra9yaka Upani=ad-s and other Vedic 58
G
literature. This Vidy1 deals also with the concepts of Para%jyoti= and many others.
Devasu=i-s, An1hata )abda, V1k ,
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Gha7a Avasth1 A Yoga Avasth1 of a Yog2 after overcoming the
Vi=9ugranthi
Ghatika Unit of time of twenty-four minutes One day consists of sixty
Ghatika-s.
Ghr19a Organ of smell, the nose vide also J61nendriya
Ghr19atattva The Tattva of
Ghr19a
G2ta Sacred song
G61na vide J61na
Gomukh1sana The cow-mouth
!sana
Gop1la Lit. 'cowherd'
K4=9a vide also Govinda A name of
Gop2 Woman cowherd as companion of
K4=9a in V4nd1vana
From mythological point of view they are female incarnations of
$=i-s.
Gorak=1sana The Gorak=a !sana
Govinda Lit. 'chief herdsman' A name of
K4=9a derived from the word Go meaning cow
Graha Gra ha Lit. 'holding, seizing, acquiring' A planet having a magic influence over the destinies of people A Graha can also be called an evil spirit influencing the body and mind of somebody. As planets they have a strong influence on the Cakra-s. Traditionally there are nine planets (vide Navagraha). 59
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Graha9a The knowledge acquired through senses vide also Sam1patti
Grah2t4 Grah2t4 The knower vide also Sam1patti
Grah2t4 Graha9a Gr1hya In Yoga S3tra-s the triple merge of the one who knows, the knowledge, and the object of knowledge This is a parallel concepts to J61ta J61na J6eya of the )r2 Yantra. Such a merge is possible only when A6janat1 quality is acquired.
Gr1hya The object of knowledge vide also Sam1patti
Gr1ma Devat1 Village deity
Granthi Psychic knot as stage of manifested consciousness
Su=umn1 N182 there are three knots viz. Brahmagranthi, Vi=9ugranthi and Rudragranthi. Each one is a door to a different level of consciousness. Each Granthi belongs to a specific Kha98a (vide Agnikha98a, S3ryakha98a, Candrakha98a Candrakha98a), each Kha98a corresponds to a K37a of Pa6cada01k=ar2 Pa6cada01k=ar2 Mantra. The force of M1y1 is very powerful in the knots. Pains and various physical disorders often acc ompany Granthi-s’ piercing. Along
Gr1vastut Lit. 'the one praising the In the
Soma stones' stones'
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Hot4 priest priest named after the hymn to the Soma stones
G4hastha Householder vide also !0rama
Gu9a Prak4ti The three Gu9a-s (Trigu9a) are Sattva, R1jas and Tamas Gu9aparva vide also Ali^ga, Gu Gu9aparva Quality, attribute, characteristic; a property of
Gu9aparva Gu9a-s as stages of their manifestations There are four Gu9aparva -s namely Vi0e0a, Avi0e0a, Li^gam1tra and Ali^ga. State of the
Gu9a Rahita !k10a The first of the 60
Vyoma Pa6caka-s described as the space without attributes
G
Gupta Lit. 'the hidden one' A name of
K4=9a
Gupt1sana The hidden
!sana
Guru Lit. 'remover of darkness' Spiritual teacher, preceptor; the planet Jupiter one of the
Navagraha-s
As spiritual teacher, Guru helps the )i=ya (disciple) to contact and awaken the inner Guru (i.e. the Self). As far as the Guru-)i=ya relationship is concerned, Guru is basically the individual projection of every )i=ya.
Guru Tattva Essence of the concept of role of a
Guru
Gy1na vide J61na
61
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
H H1kin2 The )akti residing in the
!jn1 Cakra
Ha%sa Lit. 'accord; harmony; swan' The symbol for the Supreme Reality; one of the stages of
Sanny1sa lifestyle
Ha%sa5 The Ajap1 Japa Mantra It has two parts. The Ha% (representing )iva) is produced during inhalation and )akti) is produced during the exhalation of the air.
Sa5 (representing
H1na The act of rejecting or abandoning In Yoga, H1na is the liberation of
Puru=a from Prak4ti.
vide also Ana^garekh1
Hanta vide Dhenu
Hanum1n The monkey devotee of
de votion, courage and strength R1ma renowned for his deep devotion,
Hara A name of
)iva
Harac381ma9i )iva's crest-gem, i.e. the moon vide also Candra0ekhara
Hari A name of
Vi=9u or K4=9a
Hastijihv1 N182 The N182 connected to the right side of the body
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvasa%mohi92 Sarvasa%mohi92 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Hastin2 vide Padmin2
H1sya Humour as one of the
Rasa-s
Ha7ha Yoga The physical 62
Yoga having the goal to balance the solar influence (represented by Ha Mantra) and
H
the lunar influence (represented by
&ha Mantra) in the human body
Havana The offering to the Vedic sacrificial fire, known also as
H1van
Havi The object of oblation vide also Hotr1 Arghya Havi
Hetu Cause of an experience as source of an effect ( Phala) vide also V1san1
Him1laya Lit. 'abode of snow' Range of mountains bounding India on the north, home of many places of pilgrimage and spiritual retreats
Himavat Lit. 'snowy' The Him1laya mountains; the king of
Kail1sa
Hira9yagarbha The golden womb The womb from where the manifestation takes place is in the subtle body, but its seed is in the causal body. The texts from Ved1nta describe Hira9yagarbha as being in the region of An1hata
Cakra
Hl1din2 )akti The )akti of rejoice, exhilaration, joy and bliss It is a name of
R1dh1 dancing (as form of L2l1) to experience ecstasy.
Homa The act of oblation or sacrifice
Agnihoma vide also !tm1rpa9a, Agnih Agnihoma
Homaku98a (also known as Agniku98a) A hole in the ground where sacrificial fire is burnt for oblations vide also Ku98a
Hotra The act of oblation with fire vide also Agnihotra
Hotr1 The sacrificer (performer of an oblation) vide also Hotr1 Arghya Havi Same as Hotra 63
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Hotr1 Arghya Havi The One who offers, the Offering, the Object of Offering Referring to the act of oblation ( Agnihotra) in Veda-s, it has a parallel significance to J61na J6eya in Tantra-s. The object of Hotra (Agnihotra) is to realize the unity of Arghya and Havi, thus acquiring knowledge of high degree,
J61ta Hotr1,
Hot4 One of the four Vedic priests ( $tvija-s) the one who chants the hymns of performing oblation with fire A Hot4 is is assisted by three other helper priests, viz.
$g Veda while
Maitr1varu9a, Acch1v1ka and Gr1vastut.
Hotrin vide Agnihotrin
H4d Heart
H4daya Heart; the heart as the seat of feelings
H4day1k10a The space of the heart
H4day1k10a Dh1ra91 The Vedic practice of meditation on the space of the heart For other Vedic practices vide
Veda Vidy1.
H4d Dhauti Cleaning the heart-throat area as one of the four
Dhauti-s
There are three yogic techniques for cleaning the heart-throat area namely Vamana Dhauti and V1sodhauti.
Da98a Dhauti,
Hr2 Modesty as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Hr2% Mantra called H4llekh1 Durg1 B2ja, Bhuvave0var2 Bhuvave0var2 M1y1 B2ja, M3la M3la B2ja. It is also known as )akti B2ja, Durg1 Bhuvave0var2 B2ja B 2ja, M1y1 The Tantric
H4llekh1 vide H42%
H3ti (from the root Hve i.e. to invoke) A sacred rite of invocation and offering to the Divine within the human body
64
I
I Icch1 Lit. 'desire, will' The mental activity of wishing
Sarvarogahara vide also Sarvarogahara
Cakra, Aru91 Aru91
Icch1 )akti The energy of will
Id1 N182 Known also as Candra N182 it is one of the major the left side of Su=umn1, the central channel vide also
N182 -s (in the human subtle body) running up
Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Cakra, A0vini, Sarvasampattip3ra92, Candra, Candra
N182
Ik=ukoda98a K1ma Known also as Dhanu=, it denotes the mind. vide also !yudha Devat1 The sugar-cane bow of
Il1 In the
Veda-s the Goddess Earth, daughter of Manu, a symbol of inspiration and love
Ilya Brahmaloka that is seen after passing the Viraj1 river and before the S1lajja city The seeing of the tree enables the devotee to have a preliminary Gandha (smell as experience) of the existence of Brahma and to overcome it eventually. vide also Parya^ka Vidy1
The tree in the
Indra Lord of Light representing the archetypal of pure being a s object of human knowledge In the Veda-s Indra is called "the thunderbolt" as an expression of strength and vigour. He is the divine warrior breaking all barriers, the transcendental experience of stepping from unconsciousness to consciousness. Indra is equated with the concept of Puru=a in Yoga.
Svarloka, Parya^ka Vidy1, !nandamaya Vidy1, Agni S3rya In Indra dra, Indra Agni Soma S3rya
vide also
Indra Agni Soma S3rya Veda-s The concept of Indra Agni Soma S3rya of the Veda-s is a parallel idea with that of Sat Cit !nanda. Therefore Indra is the fundamental Reality ( Sat ), Agni the Consciousness ( Cit) and Soma the state of Ecstasy or Bliss ( !nanda). S3rya is the door-gate of access through knowledge (J61na) of the unity of Sat , Cit and !nanda. vide also !tman, Agni S3rya Indra The four Godhead of the
65
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Indradhanu= The rainbow
Indra Jye=7ha Indra the leader of the heaven One of the eight Devas3 -s, an aspect of Indra, the most important of Devas3 Ga9a Devat1 -s.
Indriya Sense and action organs and the mind ( Manas) as source of lower consciousness of objects experience
Indriya-s consist of five J61nendriya-s, five Karmendriya-s and Manas. In Tantra their stimulation brings the stimulation of Cakra-s as the externalised practice of Praty1h1ra. vide also Asmit1, Rudra, Antarindriya
I^gitaj6a The interpretation of the inner intention by external gestures of a person vide also Lak=a9a Lak=a9a Siddhi
@0a Vidy1 V idy1 Vid y1 The knowledge of God A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s. It refers to Sagu9a Brahman as a subject of knowledge, but to Nirgu9a Brahman as the subject of Self-realization only (ref. @01v1sya Upani=ad). vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
@01na An old name of
)iva; the sun as a form of )iva
@0itva Lit. 'superiority' One of the eight yogic powers that of being above others vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi
I=7a Devat1 The chosen deity of an aspirant as the expression of the supreme reality to be followed or worshipped in various forms
I=7ihan (from I=7i i.e. impulse) Overcoming a specific place and time in the Brahmaloka thus enabling the devotee not to destroy the sacrifice of crossing the lakes !ra and Nya It helps also to rise above the five internal fires ( Pa6c1gni-s). vide also Parya^ka Vidy1
@0vara @0var a (from the root @0 i.e. to rule) Lit. 'lord'
Puru=a as non-manifested state; a name of )iva as patron of Yogi-s; God in Yoga @0vara is also the Devat1 of V1yu Bh3ta. vide also Parabrahman Parabrahman, Asat, Avyakta, Nir1k1ra, Sagu9a Brahman The Supreme
66
I
@0varapra9id @0var @0varapra9idh apra9idh1na h1na 1na Devotion to God as one of the five
Niyama-s
@0varapra9id @0var @0varapra9idh apra9idh1napra h1naprati=7h1 1naprati=7h1 ti=7h1 A state in which @0varapra9idh1na @0varapra9i dh1na is experienced A Yog2 possessing this state will be able to experience the ecstasy accompanying the surrender to the Divine.
@0varatattv @0var atattvaa The Tattva of J61na )akti (the energy of knowledge) vide also @=vara
Itarali^ga Lit. 'identification with this and that' The experience of the similar nature of advanced form of awareness
J2v1tman and !tman taken by )iva in !j61 Cakra as
vide also )ivali^ga
67
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
J J1gar2 The name of
J2va in the J1grat state
Jagat The ever-changing universe as phenomenal world
J1grat The Avasth1 of waking associated with a specific
V4tti (vide J1grat V4tti) J2va va consciousness is in the gross body ( Sthula )ar2ra) and the perception is In this state the J2 through the senses and mind.
J1gratsvapna An intermediate state between waking ( J1grat ) and dreaming ( Svapna)
J1grat V4tti The condition of the waking state associated in the mind with the Alpha brain waves
V4tti vide also Avasth1, V4tti
Jala Water vide also Ap
Jala Basti The Basti with water as one of the two
Basti-s
J1landhara Bandha Lit. 'water pipe lock'
Bandha as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s vide also Bandhatraya
The ‘vital centre’
J1landhara J1landhara P27ha Sarvasiddhiprada vide Sarvasiddhiprada
Cakra
S3k=ma )ar2ra it is equated with Vi0uddhi Cakra Catu=p27ha vide also P27ha, Catu=p27ha In the
Janarloka The Loka of rebirth inhabited by
Brahm1-s son Sanatkum1ra
Janma Cakra The wheel of life (from
Janmar10i Janmar1 0i Zodiacal sign
Janmasiddha 68
Janma meaning birth)
J
A perfect being by birth
Janmayoga Horoscope
J1nujugm1sana Lit. 'posture of the joined knees' vide Tantr1sana
Japa Mantra vide also !tm1rpa9a
Repetition of a
Japa Anu=7h1na The Anu=7h1na related to
Japa
Japam1l1 The rosary used for counting of
Mantra-s
Ja71yu The vulture king
J17har1gni Agni The ten J17har1gni-s are: Recaka, Pacaka Pacaka, )o=aka )o=aka, D1haka D1haka , Pl1vaka Pl1vaka, K=1raka K=1raka, Udg1raka Udg1raka , K=obhaka, J4mbhaka J4mbhaka and Mohaka. Mohaka. Sarvarak=1kara Cakra vide also Sarvarak=1kara The digestive fire as form of
J1tu Janus Janim1 Janim1 In the
Veda-s birth, being, nature
J1tyantara Pari91ma Fundamental transformation of the mind equivalent to rebirth brought by
Prak4ty1p3r1t
In practical terms it represents the awakening of potentialities of the mind .
Jayin2 The fulfilled One
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental quality of Sattva (equilibrium). vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra One of the
Jihva Organ of taste, the tongue vide also J61nendriya
Jihv1 )odhana Cleaning the root of the tongue as one of the
Danta Dhauti-s
Jihvatattva The Tattva Tattva of Jihva
Jij61su 69
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Lit. 'desirous of knowing' A kind of spiritual initiation as
Sanny1sa lifestyle in a preliminary stage
J2va vide J2v1tman
J2vanmukta A person who attained liberation ( Mukti) and whose consciousness is not touched by still acts in the world of Prak4ti A J2vanmukta has a simultaneous perception of integrated into the pure consciousness.
Prak4ti, but
Prak4ti and the state of Mukti thus becoming
vide also Marut
J2vanmukti The state of a
J2vanmukta
J2v1tm1 vide J2v1tman
J2v1tman The individual Soul
Advaita vide also Param1tman, Advaita Known also as J2v1tm1, J2va , the individual Soul becomes )1r2ra, Tejasa or Pr1j6a depending in which kind of )ar2ra (body) dwells, respectively Sth3la, S3k=ma or K1ra9a.
J61na (from the root J61 i.e. to know) Knowledge, perception as one of the eight
Bh1va-s
J61na extends from sense perception to the perception of !tman as full absorption. Synonyms for J61na are Vidy1, Praj61. The real J61na is that knowledge, which gives liberation; any other knowledge is called Vij61na. vide also Savitark1 Sam1dhi, Aj61na, J61ta J61ta J61na J6eya
J61na Anu=7h1na The Anu=7h1na related to
J61na-s (as spiritual studies)
J61na Cak=u The third eye i.e.
!j61 Cakra
J61na Mudr1 A hand
Mudr1 practice in order to acquire knowledge and wisdom
J61na Netr Netra a The eye of knowledge i.e.
!j61 Cakra
J61na )akti The energy of wisdom or knowledge
J61na Yoga The Yoga of knowledge or wisdom
J61nayogavyavasthiti 70
J
Steadfastness in knowledge of
Yoga as one of the twenty-six Daiv2sampat-s
J61nendriya Organ of perception in the human body There are five J61nendriya-s namely )rotra (ears), Tvak (skin), Netra or Cak=u (eyes), Jihva (tongue), Ghr19a (nose) produced from the Rajas Gu9a of Prak4ti and are parts of the thirty-six Tattva-s.
J61nin One following the
J61na path
J61t1 J61t1 vide J61ta J61na J6eya
J61t1 J61na J6eya The One who knows, the Knowledge, the Object of Knowledge The illusory triad of the Self, which has to merge at the stage when the Self is fully realized . vide also )r2 Yantra, Sam1patti
J6eya J6eya ya vide J61ta J61na J6e
J4mbhaka The J17har1gni of intake of breath (energy) vide also Sarvarak=1svar3pi92
Jv1l1m1lin2 Lit. 'flame-garlanded' One of the
Nity1 )akti-s
It bestows esoteric knowledge of one's previous births.
Jv1l1m1l1 means garland of fire.
Jye=7ha The month corresponding to parts of May/ June vide also M1sa
Jyoti Lit. 'light' The inner light as the cause of
An1hata )abda; any spiritual light experience
Jyotirdhy1na The causal form of meditation
Jyotirli^ga The form taken by awareness
)iva in Sahasr1ra Cakra as experience of Jyoti or the highest form of
As an external expression there are twelve enlightened shrines of
)iva in India.
vide also )ivali^ga
Jyoti=1mjyotir Vidy1 71
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
The knowledge of the light of lights A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s as related to Janaka by $=i describes the light of lights i.e. !tm1, the Soul as seated in the heart ( H4daya ).
Y1j6avalkya. It
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Jyoti=mat2 Lit. 'shining, luminous' Condition of the mind experiencing obtained Typical methods are practices of
Jyoti (associated with Sattva Gu9a) through which Vi0ok1 is
H4day1k10a Dh1ra91, N1da Dh1ra91, )1%bhav2 Mudr1.
Jyoti=mat2 Prav4tti The mind faculty that is able to experience the light ( !loka) This faculty enables the acquisition of many
72
Siddhi-s.
K
K Kadamba The tree Nauclea Cadamba whose fragrant blossoms of orange colour are used in worship particularly of Dev2's
K1di The first of all
)r2 Vidy1 Mantra
Kail1sa Him1laya-s Mountains frequented by Siddha-s and Gandharva-s, the paradise of )iva. Here is where P1rvat2, )iva's spouse, the daughter of the Mountain King was born. These mountains are also )iva K=etra, where there are the three great shrines of Gangotri (the source of the Ganges), Kedarnath (a Ma7h and temple of Sad10iva Sad10iva) and Badrinath (a temple of an incarnation of Lord Vi=9u). It is the place of Satsa^ga of Lord )iva for $=i-s and Muni-s, a place of great beauty, the fabulous residence of Kubera built of Cint1ma9i and surrounded by Kadamba trees. The mystic mount is to be sought in the Sahasr1ra Sahasr1ra Cakra in the body of every J2va .
Mythical mountains in
Kail1sav1sin Lit. 'the one dwelling on the mount A name of
Kail1sa ' '
)iva
Kai%karya vide D1sya
Kaivalya (from the word Kevala, vide) Avidy1 As a process of unfolding the pure consciousness, Kaivalya is defined as the Pratiprasava (involution) of the three Gu9a-s when they acquire an undisturbed condition, so being able to fulfil the Puru=1rtha-s. The state of absolute unity of spirit as a culmination of supreme knowledge and absence of
Kaivalya Mukti The liberation of absolute unity
Kaivalyapr1gbh1ram Lit. 'tendency towards absolute unity' The process of mind's ( Citta) attraction towards the unity experienced by a practitioner in the final stages of own S1dhana
K1ki Mudr1 Lit. 'gesture of the cr ow' The crow
Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s
K1kin2 The )akti residing in
An1hata Cakra
Kal1 73
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
A small part of a whole; an atom, an essential part of matter
K1la Lit. 'of a dark colour' Time; death
Kal1 Ka6cuka )akti limiting the perception of the real nature of matter as being one with the primordial )iva )akti vide also Tattva, Kal1tattva Kal1tattva Form of unity of
K1la Ka6cuka )akti limiting the perception of time integrated with space being one with the primordial )iva )akti vide also Tattva, K1latattva K1latattva Form of unity of
Kal1tattva The Tattva of
Kal1 Ka6cuka
K1latattva The Tattva of K1la Ka6cuka
K1l2 (word derived from K1la, vide) Lit. 'the dark one'
)iva K1l2 as the first Mah1vidy1 is the )akti of K1la and the original creative principle. As a goddess she transforms herself into the ten Mah1vidy1-s as expressions of planes of existence and cycles of life. K1l2 is also the first expression of the awakened Ku98alin2 as destroyer of ignorance. The divine Mother as the consort of
K1lid1da Lit. 'servant of
K1l2 ' '
A celebrated poet of ancient India author of
)akuntal1, and other works.
K1liya The serpent-demon who was defeated by
K4=9a as expression of victory over lust
Kali Yuga An age of the world consisting of 432,000 years It is held that this
Yuga began year 3102 (or 3114) BCE, being the age in which we live in.
Kalki The tenth incarnation of
Vi=9u, yet to come
Kalpa Resolve; a fabulous period of time
Kalpataru The wish-fulfilling tree
Kalpataru day is considered to be the first of January every year. As per )1rad1 )1rad1 Tilaka work, Kalpataru is the awakened Ku98alin2, the source of all things desired. A
74
K
K1ma Desire, the passion associated with
Sv1dhi=7h1na Cakra
One of the names of K1madeva as one who generates desire for love. In the described as the first movement of creation.
$g Veda, K1ma is
Pa6c1gni vide also Puru=1rtha, Pa6c1gni
K1m1^ga The mango tree Magnifera Indica
K1mab19a An arrow of
K1madeva
K1ma B2ja vide Kl2%
K1mabindu Lit. 'wish drop' A drop of melted butter into the sacred fire in order to obtain the fulfilment of a wish
K1madeva The God of Love
Manmatha, K1ma K1ma, Smara Smara, M1ra M1ra, He can assume any form at will. His other names are Madan1, Manmatha Pradyumna, Ana^ga Ana^ga, Kusume=u Kusume=u, Kandarpa Kandarpa, Manobhava Manobhava, Kamar1ja Kamar1ja, etc., all as expressions Pr2ti as sentiment and joy. His B2ja of love, attachment and desires. His two wives are Rati and Pr2ti Mantra is Kl2%. Kl2%. K1madeva is the son of Brahm1, the Creator as K1ma (desire) comes always as part of the creation, but even exist s without an object of desire (vide Ana^ga, K1ma K1ma). His emblem is the Makara, hence the name Makaraketana (the one having the Makara for an emblem).
K1madhenu The cow of plenty, the mythical cow of As per
Vasi=7ha
)1rad1 Tilaka, K1madhenu K1madhenu is the awakened Ku98alin2.
K1makal1 K1ma signifies the union of )iva and )akti as K1me0vara and K1me0var2, Kal1 is their manifestation
K1m1kar=i92 K1ma vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
K1m1k=y1 Temple in K1mar3pa (Assam-India) where
Sati's Yoni fell to ground
It is a Tantric centre of great power.
Kamal1 The tenth of the ten Mah1vidy1-s represents the state of reconstituted unity when everything is joy, happiness and good fortune
Kamal1 is also one of Goddess Lak=m2 's names. Dev2 is also named Kamal1 as she is in every )akti. 75
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
K1mar1ja Lit. 'king of desire' One of the names of
K1madeva as king of desires
vide also K1ma
K1mar1jak37a Pa6cada02 Mantra known also as Madhyak37a It is presided over by S3rya One group (section) of
K1mar3pa Lit. 'shape assumed at will; the
Yoni ' '
An old region corresponding to the actual east part of Bengal and west part of Assam in India where the famous temple K1m1k=y1 is located
K1mar3pa P27ha Sarvasiddhiprada vide Sarvasiddhiprada
Cakra Catu=p27ha vide also P27ha, Catu=p27ha In the S3k=ma )ar2ra it is equated with Sv1dhi=7h1na Cakra. It is also a Yonip27ha.
K1ma0ara Lit. 'love's shaft' An arrow of
K1madeva
K1me02 The passionate One
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental activity of U=na. vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra One of the
K1me0vara Lit. 'the king of love'
)iva without attributes vide also K1makal1 A name of
K1me0var2 Lit. 'the queen of love'
!vara9a Devat1-s presiding over the principle of existence of Avyakta K1me0var2 is also a name for the Supreme )akti (vide K1makal1, K1me0var2 Nity1). vide also Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprad Sarvasiddhiprada a Cakra One of the
K1me0var2 Nity1 The eternal
K1me0var2, a name for the Supreme )akti
K1min2k16cana Lust and gold as expressions of desire and greed
K1myahoma Homa with the purpose of attainment of one's desires 76
K
Ka6cuka Lit. 'cover, disguise' Limitation
)akti in which the primordial unity is obscured by M1y1 )akti so the inner perfection of Cit !nanda as )iva )akti union is limited. There are five Ka6cuka-s (part of the thirty-six Tattva-s), viz. Kal1, Vidy1, R1ga, K1la and Niyati.
Forms of
Kandarpa Lit. 'inflamer even of a god' One of
K1madeva‘s names, as the one inflaming love
Kap1labh1ti Lit. 'shinning skull'
+a7karma-s used to destroy the disorders caused by Kapha (phlegm) It is of three kinds namely V1makrama, Vyutkrama and )2tkrama.
One of the
Kap1larandhra Dhauti Cleaning of the frontal sinuses as one of the
Danta Dhauti-s
Kapha Do=a-s In the !yurveda system, Kapha is a deficiency of phlegm as a cause to diseases.
One of the three
K1ra9a Cause, origin
K1ra9a Bindu The causal source, which proceeds the
K1rya Bindu
K1ra9a R3pa Causal form vide also R3pa
K1ra9a K1r a9a )ar2ra Sa%sk1ra-s) as vehicle of transmigration ( Sa%s1ra) Its centre is the heart. This )ar2ra is the cause of all other lower bodies. The causal body (composed of
Karav2ra The plant oleander (Nerium Odorum) or its flower; a species of
Soma used in worship
K1rik1 A verse of an essential statement usually applied in grammar and philosophy
Karma (from the root K4 i.e. i.e. to accomplish) Action and its accumulations The accumulated Karma is of three kinds, viz. )ukla Karma, K4=9a Karma and A0ukl1k4=9a Karma producing fruits according to own nature. The actions ( Karma-s) are accompanied by Pari91ma, T1pa and Sa%sk1ra. As degree of finesse Karma is of two kinds, i.e. Sth3la and S3k=ma. Karma accumulates only when there is a sense of doing something. From the point of 77
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Karma is of two kinds, viz. Sopakrama and Nirupakrama. vide also Karm10aya, Sa%sk1ra
view of timely effect,
Karma Deva A god created by own actions as compared to a
!j1naya Deva (god by birth)
vide also !nandamaya Vidy1
Karma Sanny1sa One of the preliminary stages of Sanny1sa lifestyle when the world is committed to spiritual life
Sanny1sin although living in the
Karma Sanny1sa is also a kind of initiation of yogic type. vide also Dik=a
Karm10aya Repository of acts as Karma-s of various natures, the store of the traces of past accumulated in the forms of Sa%sk1ra-s
Karma-s
Karma Yoga The Yoga of action vide also Pari0rama
Karmendriya Organ of action in the human body There are five Karmendriya-s namely V1k (mouth), Upastha (genitals), P1yu (anus), P192 (hands), P1da (feet) produced from the Rajas Gu9a of Prak4ti and are parts of the thirty-six Tattva-s. vide also Vikara9a Bh1va
Kar9a Dhauti Cleaning of the ear opening as one of the
Danta Dhauti-s
Karobari The caretaker of a spiritual institution
Kartar2 A two-syllables
Mantra
K1rtika The month corresponding to parts of Oct./ Nov. vide also M1sa
K1rttikeya The god of war, son of
)iva and P1rvat2
Karu91 The sentiment of compassion; compassion as one of the
Rasa-s
Karu91 is also one of the Citta Pras1dana-s as an attitude towards unhappy people. vide also Maitry1di
K1rya 78
K
Effect; action vide also K1ra9a, Satk1ryav1da
K1rya Bindu The effect source, which follows the
K1ra9a Bindu
Ka=1ya Astringent as one of the essential tastes ( Rasa-s)
Ka7uka Pungent as one of the essential tastes ( Rasa -s)
Kaula )iva and )akti Kaula Dharma and Kaulika Dharma are synonyms. In the Tantra-s Kula means )akti, Akula means )iva and the union between Kula and Akula is called Kaula. The path of Su=umn1 is also named Kula, as Dev2's names are Kulayogin2 and Kaulin2. Traditionally there are eight kinds of women attending on Kaula worship. The essence common to both
Kaulam1rga The Kaula path
Kaulika vide Kaula
Kaulin2 The essential (basic) One
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental quality of Tamas. vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra, Kaula One of the
Kaumud2 Lit. 'moonlight'
K1rtika when the festival in honour of K1rttikeya is held Kaumud2 is also personified as goddess, the wife of Candra. The day of full-moon in the month of
Kaumud2c1ra The day of full-moon in the month of
!0vina
Kavitva The literary ability vide also P198itya
K1vya Poem; charming
K1ya Body
K1y1gni The fire of the body as digestive fire 79
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
K1yar3pa Form of the body Performing Sa%yama on K1yar3pa and suspending the reception of the light in the eyes will enable the Yog2 to become invisible.
K1ya Sampad Bodily perfection
Ha7ha Yoga the marks of bodily perfection are four viz. R3pa, L1va9ya , Bala and Vajsa%hananatv1ni (vide Yoga S3tra-s III.46). In
K1ya Sthairya Steadiness of the body
K1yika Kind of worship "by body" of the
Dev2
vide also Y1ga
Ke0ava Lit. 'having long or handsome hair' A name of
K4=9a
Ke0ava assumes various forms in different Yuga-s.
Ketu The descending node in astronomy and as trology, one of the
Navagraha-s
Kevala Lit. 'entirely, wholly' The state of highest possible knowledge
Kevala Kumbhaka Kumbhaka as a result of full awakening of Ku98alin2 vide also Sahita Kumbhaka
Spontaneous
Keval2 Lit. 'causing absorption' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Kha8ga Siddhi The power of breaking through vide also Siddhi
Khajuraho Lit. 'agitated chest' The famous Tantric temples
Kha98a Lit. 'part, chapter, group, sect ion of a work' Division 80
Pr191y1ma Pr191y1ma
K
Khecar2 The flying One
Khecari Mudr1 The Mudr1 of flying as one of the
Mudr1 Bandha-s
Khy1ti Awareness vide also Vivekakhy1ti
K2rtana One of the
A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga as the devotional act of singing songs for the Divine
K2rti Fame
Kle0a Affliction, suffering In Yoga the five afflictions binding down the human being are Avidy1 Avidy1, Asmit1, R1ga, Dve=a, Abhinive0a. From Avidy1, Asmit1 will appear, from Asmit1, R1ga, from R1ga, Dve=a, from Dve=a, Abhinive0a. Kle0a-s can be eliminated mainly ma inly by living into an !0rama and coming back to society after a while. vide also Du5kha
Kl2% K1ma B2ja A B2ja for K1madeva and K4=9a.
Kon1rak Lit. 'corner of the time-wheel' The famous Tantric temple in Orissa (India)
Ko0a Lit. 'sheath; body' Sphere of consciousness There are five Ko0a-s viz. Annamaya, Pr19amaya, !nandamaya as an integral part of the three )ar2ra-s.
Manomaya, Vij61namaya and
vide also Vik=epasahabh3
Krama Lit. 'proceeding, going towards; progressing step by step; method' Sequence, order
Kratu $=i; capacity; will vide also Sapta4=i
Name of a
Kriy1 )akti The energy of action 81
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Kriy1 Yoga The practical
Yoga
K4kara The V1yu producing the function of hunger vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvavighaniv1ri92
Krodha Varjana-s Krodha, known also as Dve=a is the passion associated with Ma9ip3ra Cakra. vide also Pa6c1gni, A^ku0a Anger as one of the seven
K4p1 Mercy
K4p1 Ka71k=a A side look (glance) full of grace as
Dev2's kind of look
K4p1s1gara Lit. 'the one who is an ocean of mercy' A name of
K4=9a
K4=9a Lit. 'dark-blue; the one who attracts' An incarnation ( Avat1ra) of
Vi=9u
K4=9a Karma The bad (dark)
Karma as one of the three accumulated Karma-s
K4ta Yuga vide Satya Yuga, Yuga
K4ti The quality of being active vide also Bh3ma Vidy1
K=am1 Forgiveness as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
vide also Ak=am1
K=1raka The J17har1gni of bile secreting vide also Sarv1dh1rasvar3pi92
K=atriya One of the four
K=etra Field 82
Var9a-s in the Vedic tradition consisting of military and administrative people
K
vide also Kuruk=etra
K=ipta Uncontrolled state as one of the five
Cittabh3mi-s
K=2ra V4k=a Fig-tree
K=obhaka The J17har1gni of churning of the food vide also Sarv1nandamay2
K=udra Brahm198a Lit. 'little universe' The human body as Microcosm About the human body as a Microcosm the work Vi0vas1ra Tantra says: "What is here is elsewhere, what is not here is nowhere". As such there is a fundamental parallel concept between Microcosm (K=udra Brahm198a or Pi98198a) and Macrocosm ( Brahm198a). vide also )iva )akti, Pi98198a, Brahm198a
Kubera The god of wealth known also as
Kuvera
vide also Kail1sa
Kuh3 The new moon personified
Kuh3 N182 The N182 connected to the right side of forehead
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvavidr1vi92 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Kuja The planet Mars, one of the
Navagraha -s
Kukku71sana The cock
!sana
Kula vide Kaula
Kulaku98a The place where
Ku98alin2 sleeps in M3l1dh1ra M3l1dh1ra Cakra
Kul1m4ta The nectar flowing from
Sahasr1ra Cakra
Kulasundar2 One of the
Nity1 )akti-s
Kum1r2 P3j1 Worship of virgin in the Tantric tradition 83
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Men do the worship. A girl in her eighth year is called
Gaur2.
Kumbhaka Controlled retention of breath as one of the three states of As a rite Kumbhaka is the inner
Pr191y1ma
Agnihotra.
Ku98a Lit. 'pit, round hole in the ground where fire i s burnt; coiled; circular' The place in the human body where the sexual glands are situated; a special hole used in the ceremonial rite of sacrificing to the fire ( Agni)
Ku98alin2 Lit. 'that which is coiled' The evolutionary energy as power/ force resting at the base of the spinal column where is described as being coiled three and a half times around Svayambh3 Li^ga When Ku98alin2 is raised up through the Su=umn1 N182 the higher levels of consciousness are experienced while the Cakra-s are activated until Ku98alin2 reaches Sahasr1ra Cakra that is the end of its journey. Ku98alin2 is the aspect of K1ra9a Bindu in the human body. vide also Kevala Kumbhaka, Ku98a
Ku98alin2 )akti The Serpent Power; the transformative energy of creation It has three forms namely Adha50akti, Madhya0akti and #rdhva0akti. When Ku98alin2 )akti has passed through all the seven Cakra-s the consciousness of the Yog2 becomes uninterrupted between the lowest and the highest c entres.
Ku98alin2 Yoga The Yoga of
Ku98alin2 known also as Laya Yoga
K3rma Lit. 'tortoise' The V1yu producing the function of closing clos ing and opening of eyelids
K3rma is also one of Vi=9u Vi=9u's incarnations, the representation of the axis mundi, mundi, the centre of stability around which everything evolves. vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvam4tyupra0ama92
K3rm1sana The tortoise
!sana
Kuruk=etra Lit. 'field of the
-s' Kuru -s'
The battlefield described in the human body
Bhagavad G2t1 as symbol of the inner battlefield within the
Kurukull1 A name of India and its people personified as goddess Her Vidy1 is called Trikha9d1 vide also V1r1h2 84
K
Ku0a Grass scientifically known as Poa Cynosuroides used in certain sacred ceremonies and for meditation in Yoga
Kusuma Flower; menstrual discharge vide also Ana^gakusuk1
Kusume=u Lit. 'arrow of flower' One of the names of
K1madeva as one whose love arrows are flowers
vide also Kusuma
Ku7icaka Lit. 'happy in the hut' One of the preliminary stages of
Sanny1sa lifestyle when the Sanny1sin starts to live in an
!0rama
Ku72r Cottage, hut as a retreat for a
Sanny1sin
85
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
L Laghim1 Lit. 'lightness' One of the eight yogic powers the one allowing somebody to become very light; lightness as a result of practicing Pr191y1ma vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi A=7asiddhi
Laghu S hort hort
Lajj1 Modesty; shame; bashfulness
L1kin2 The )akti residing in the
Ma9ip3ra Cakra
Lak=a9a Lit. 'expressing indirectly, indirectly , indicating; symbol, sign' Characteristic, attribute, mark; a kind of
)1stra; expression of a condition
Lak=a9a Pari91ma Transformation of quality of the mind ( Citta) accompanying the
Pari91ma-s as a result of
Sa%yama
Lak=a9a Siddhi The power to have a correct interpretation of nature’s warnings of past, present and future events This ability makes possible to have accurate predictions. vide also )akuna Tantra, Siddhi
Lak=ma9a The brother of (India)
R1ma renowned for his devotion to R1ma; a famous Tantric temple at Khajuraho
Lak=m2 Goddess of prosperity, spouse of Lord
Vi=9u known also as Kamal1, Ram1 Ram1
Lak=m2 B2ja vide )r2%
Lak=ya Aim, goal
Lalan1 Cakra A minor Cakra located to the back wall of the pharynx serving to store the Bindu prior to the release to Vi0uddha Cakra 86
Am4ta falling from
L
Lalit1 Lit. 'she who plays; she who is charming, lovely, desired'
Dev2, the great Goddess, the great )akti Her play is world-play. The word Lalit1 has the meanings of eight human qualities namely
A special name of
brilliancy, manifestation, tenderness, depth, concentration, energy, grace grace and compassion. She is the deity of )r2 Vidy1, the supreme Kame0var2 at the centre of )r2 Yantra. According to Padma Pur19a, Lalit1 Lalit1 is the deity worshipped at Pray1ga. The Goddess Lalit1 has many names, the most famous group being Lalit1 Sahasran1ma Stotra. vide also !yudha Devat1
Lalit1 Sahasran1ma Stotra The most relevant reference book in the
)akti tradition
Lat1 Creeper; slender body; woman partner
Lat1 S1dhana A Tantric practice of a female with a male Esoterically is the expression of (Lat1) in M3l1dh1ra Cakra.
Dev2 Ku98alin2 encircling the Svayambh3 Li^ga like a creeper
Laulik2 vide Neti
Lava9a Salt, one of the essential tastes ( Rasa-s)
L1va9ya Beauty as one of the four
K1ya Sampad-s
Laya Lit. 'absorption, dissolution' The process in which a product dissolves or is absorbed into that from which has originated. vide also Niv4tti
Layakrama Lit. 'going towards absorption'
S4=7ikrama Practically any act of Yoga is a Layakrama act. In the )r2 Yantr Yantra a the action of absorption have the direction from Trailokyamohana to Bindu. Practically any act of Yoga is a Layakrama act. The process of absorption as opposed to
Laya Siddhi Yoga Kind of
Yoga by practicing with Yoni Mudr1
Laya Siddhi Yoga Sam1dhi The Sam1dhi as a result of
Laya Siddhi Yoga practice
Laya Yoga Yoga of dissolution known also as Ku98alin2 Yoga, a combination of Karma and J61na Yoga-s
The
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The final absorption into
Ku98alin2 means becoming one with the J61na )akti.
L2l1 Divine play producing the universe vide also Lalit1
Li^ga Lit. 'emblem; sign; form in disguise' A mark of identification; the transmigrating soul
Li^gam1tra Lit. 'with mark' One of the four
Gu9aparva-s in which !nanda Sam1dhi is experienced
Li^ga Mudr1 The gesture of the
t he body Li^ga form generating heat in the
Li^ga ) )ar2ra ar2ra The subtle body, same as
S3k=ma )ar2ra
Lobha Greed, the passion associated with
M3l1dh1ra Cakra
vide also Pa6c1gni
Loka Lit. 'plane; world; region' Degree of space access and level of awareness Traditionally there are fourteen Loka-s, seven above (and including) the Bh3rloka and seven below. The above earth worlds are Bh3rloka, Bhuvarloka Bhuvarloka, Svarloka, Maharloka, Janarloka Janarloka, Taparloka and Satyaloka (or Brahmaloka). The below regions are Atalaloka, Vitalaloka, Sutalaloka, Ras1talaloka, Tal1talaloka, Mah1talaloka Mah1talaloka and P1t1laloka. There is a correspondence between Loka-s and Cakra-s as expressing various levels of awareness (consciousness).
88
M
M Mada Pride, arrogance, the passion associated with
Vi0uddha Cakra
vide also Pa6c1gni
Madan1 Lit. 'love, passion; the season of spri ng; intoxication'
K1madeva as one who intoxicates with love vide also Ana^gamadan1 Ana^gamadan1
One of the names of
Madan1tur1 Lit. 'love-sick' vide Ana^gamadan1tur1
Madhu Lit. 'sweet, delightful; honey' The season of spring; a name of
)iva
Madhubh3mika Madhubh3mika A Yog2 who can experience his
Siddhi-s in the world of Prak4ti
Madhura Sweet, one of the essential tastes ( Rasa -s)
M1dhurya Loveliness, sweetness; deep affection; one of the
Bh1va-s of Bhakti Yoga, also one of the Rasa-s
Madhu Vidy1 The knowledge of the honey A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) having the central point the sun and its manifestations as Madhu (honey) of all the gods and their manifestations. The universe is compared to the honeycomb similar to the honeycomb of the human body. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Madhya Middle
Madhyak37a vide K1mar1jak37a
Madhyam1 The audible (whispering) stage of
)abda
Madhya Marga vide Su=umn1 89
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Madhya0akti The middle one of the
Ku98akin2 )akti-s
Madhya T2vrasa%vega Medium intensity of eagerness as one of the three
T2vrasa%vega-s
Madya vide Pa6ca Mak1ra
M1gha The month corresponding to parts of Jan./ Feb. vide also M1sa
Mah1 Bandha Bandha as one of the also Mudr1 Bandha-s A kind of Bandha in which the three major Bandha-s are performed concurrently. vide also Bandhatraya The great
Mah1bh1rata The great Indian epic attributed to the sage
Vy1sa
It describes the conflict between the forces of light (the Dh4tar1=tra-s).
P19du-s) and the forces of evil (the
Mah1bh3ta vide Bh3ta
Mah1bindu vide Par1bindu
Mah1deva Lit. 'the great god' A name of
)iva
Mah1 K1ra9a )ar2ra The great causal body associated with the state of
Tur2ya and )uddhatattva-s
vide also Tur2y1t2ta
Mah1k10a The third of the
Vyoma Pa6caka-s described as the great space
Mah1 M1y1 Lit. 'great illusion' The objective universe
Mah1 Mudr1 The great
Mudr1 as one of the most important Mudr1 Bandha-s
Mah1navam2 The ninth day of the bright half of
Mah1pralaya 90
!0vina and Caitra
M
The great dissolution
Mah1 Mah1puru 1puru= puru==aa The Great Being; a name of
)iva, as holder of consciousness
Maharloka The region above the polar star A Loka inhabited by
Bh4gu and other saints, also known as the middle region.
Mah1 $=i Great seer of the Vedic tradition vide Brahm1
Mah10akti Supreme )akti A synonym for Parama0akti. In that supreme sphere crossing all worlds her residence is called Mah1 Kail1sa or Apar1jita. There she is one with Parama0iva. Her body is of pure Sattva.
Mahat Buddhi On the human plane Mahat takes the form of the Tanm1tra-s. Sarvasiddhiprada vide also Bhagam1lin2, Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprada Cakra The highest intelligence; the cosmic principle of
Mah1talaloka vide Loka
Mah1tattva The centre of individuality in any Avasth1 (state) of a person, experienced as Asmit1. Sa%yama on Mah1tattva leads to Nirmana Citta experience.
Aha%k1ra or
M1h1tmya Greatness
Mah1tripur1sundar2 Mah1tripur1sundar2 Tripur1 vide also Sarv1nandamaya Cakra
The Great Beautiful
Mah1vajre0var2 One of the
Nitya )akti-s
Mah1v1kya The four great sayings of the and !yam1tma Brahm1
Upani=ad -s: Tattvamasi, Aha%brahm1smi, Praj61nam Brahm1
They summarise the whole philosophical concept of the Upani=ad-s. The experience of these four sayings is possible only after attaining Dharmamegha Sam1dhi through yogic techniques, i.e. full spiritual liberation.
Mah1 Vedha Bandha as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s The awakening refers to Ku98alin2 )akti
The awakening
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Mah1videh1 Lit. 'great bodiless' The awareness of
Cid1k10a as a way to destroy/ remove !vara9a
Mah1vidy1 Lit. 'great wisdom'
Tantra S1dhana; the ten Tantric )akti-s As Tantric )akti-s they are K1l2, T1r1, +o8a02, Bhuvane0var2, Cinnamast1, Tripur1 Bhairav2 , Dh3m1v1t2, Bagal1 Mukhi, M1ta^g2, Kamal1 representing the gradual transformation of the primordial principle of creation that is Goddess K1l2. Mah1vidy1-s have specific Yantra-s to depict the polarity of their divine nature either positive or negative. In Tantra the ten Mah1vidy1-s are degrees of experiences towards unity. The third kind of initiation in the
Mah1y1ga Great Worship The paramount worship of
Dev2 or of the sixty-four Yogin2-s as is performed by )ivayog2-s only.
vide also Y1ga
Mah1yaj6a Great sacrifice (offering) vide also $tvija,
Yaj6a
Mah1 Yuga Yuga vide Yuga
The great
Mahim1 Lit. 'greatness' One of the eight yogic powers of becoming as big as the universe vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi
Maithuna Lit. 'coupling, union'
Yogin2 and a Yogi, representing )akti (energy) and )iva (consciousness) Maithuna has three R3pa-s (forms) namely Sth3la, S3k=ma and K1ra9a. The Sth3la Maithuna (gross union) is the sexual union, the S3k=ma Maithuna is the union of Pr19a-s (energies), and the K1ra9a Maithuna is the union of Ku98alin2 )akti with )iva as a culmination experience in Tantra. But K1ra9a Maithuna transcends the ordinary experience being the esoteric kind of Maithuna. The three R3pa-s of Maithuna are expressions of the experience of duality matterSexual union between a
spirit. vide also Pa6ca Mak1ra,
Mithuna M3rti, Samarasa
Maitr1varu9a Lit. 'the one belonging to In the
priest Veda-s a helper priest, the first assistant of a Hot4 priest
Maitrey2 Vidy1 92
Mitra and and Varu9a '
M
The knowledge of
Maitrey2
A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s, in which R=i Y1j6avalkya, on retiring from his household life, instructs Maitrey2, one of his two wives into the knowledge of !tma in order to obtain immortality. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Maitr2 Maitr2 The sentiment of friendship
Maitr2 is also one of the Citta Pras1dana-s as an attitude towards happy people. vide also Maitry1di
Maitry1di The group of sentiments of
Maitr2, Karu91 and Mudit1 leading to a particular state of Sam1dhi
Majj1 Marrow vide Dh1tu
Makara Crocodile regarded as an emblem of
K1madeva
Makaraketana Makara for for an emblem' One of the names of K1madeva
Lit. 'one having the
Makar1sana The dolphin
!sana
M1l1 Lit. 'wreath, garland; crown; rosary, necklace' A string of beads of
Tulsi, Rudr Rudr1k=a Rudr 1k=a, crystal, etc., used mainly for Japa practice
Esoterically it represents the impurity of the mind. vide also Ana^gam1lin2
M1l1 Mantra A Mantra having more than twenty syllables, a sacred text in the form of a wreath
M1lin2 Female florist
M1lin2 Tantra A kind of
Tantra
M1%sa Flesh; meat
Dh1tu vide Pa6ca Mak1ra, Dh1tu
Manana Lit. 'reflection, thinking, meditation' me ditation' 93
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
A method of reflection in order to differentiate between what is real and what is unreal and achieve Viveka on any particular experience
Manas The mind as organ of perception or supporting organ The mind is the organ through which the human being will have a finite experience of the infinite consciousness ( Cit or Samvit) through Citta as reflection of Cit. vide also !k10a
M1nasa Kind of worship "by mind" of the
Dev2
vide also Y1ga
M1nasap3j1 Lit. 'mental worship' A ritual practice of mental worship such as using a
Mantra for example
vide also P3j1
Manaska Brahman through the mental plane vide also Amanaska
The knowledge of
Manas )akti The awareness of time ( K1la) as one of the J61nendriya-s to function
)akti-s flowing through I81 N182 thus enabling the
Manas )akti is the mental kind of energy (vide )akti). vide also )iva )akti
Manastattva The Tattva of
Manas
M1navaugha Lit. 'the human teacher' Three aspects of )iva as part of (Ghr19a ) and the anus ( P1yu)
Navan1tha-s represented in the human body by two nostrils
Ma98ala Lit. 'circular; group, multitude'
Yantra representation of a Kind of Yantra
Devat1 either in bi-dimensional or tri-dimensional form There is a fundamental concept that the human body is a Ma98ala, thus subject to all forms of Yantra worship.
Ma98alap27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of the vide also P27ha
Ma98apa Hall; temple 94
Dev2 in the Ma98ala or Yantra forms
M
Ma98uk1sana The frog
!sana
M198uk2 M198uk2 Mudr1 The frog
Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s
Ma^gala Lit. 'happiness' Anything auspicious; an aspect related to the
)iva concept; a name for planet Mars
Ma9i Gem, jewel, pearl
Ma9ip3ra Cakra (known also as N1bhipadma) Lit. 'city of jewels wheel' The Cakra located in the subtle body on the vertebral column behind the navel
Cakra is associated with the J61nendriya of Netra, the Karmendriya of P1da, the Tanm1tra of R3pa, is the centre for Sam1na V1yu and the seat of Pr19amaya Ko0a, the level of awareness is Svarloka. vide also L1kin2 This
Manmatha Lit. 'stirring the mind; destroying the mind' One of the names of
K1madeva as one who agitates the mind
Manobhava Lit. 'mind born' One of the names of
K1madeva as one who is first born in the mind, then takes different forms
Manomaya Ko0a The body of mind as sphere of consciousness It forms S3k=ma )ar2ra, the subtle body. This and has its seat in the An1hata Cakra.
Ko0a is the expression and experience of the mind
Manonman2 The cessation of mind functioning as a yogic experience
Mantha Lit. 'churning' The activity of stirring round an offering as part of an oblation; the churning-stick or the mash-pot
Mantra Lit. 'liberation of the mind'
Devat1, an expression of the consciousness as sound Mantra-s are of five kinds viz. Pi98a, Kartar2, B2ja, Mantra and M1l1. A Mantra having ten to twenty syllables is called Mantra (vide all five kinds). Mantra practice goes in spiral bringing the mind closer and closer to the source of the sound. The most celebrated is Mantra O%, the sound A sacred formula as a subtle form of a
going towards absorption. 95
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Mantrap27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of the
Dev2 in a Mantra form
vide also P27ha
Manu=ya Human being
M1ra Lit. 'killing' One of the names of
K1madeva as one who kills for love
M1ra is personified as a demon wearing a crown with a shinning jewel that it blinds those looking at it. The jewel is the fascination of vice, the demon M1ra is in fact the personification of the human temptation to vice hence an aspect of K1madeva K1madeva who kills for the vicious love.
M1ra9akarma Lit. 'action of destruction of an enemy'
+a7karma-s, which gives the power to kill one's enemy This is one of the five malefic magical rites in the Tantra-s.
One of the
M1rdava Gentleness as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
M1rga Lit. 'search, seeking' Path; the spiritual path vide also Devay1na
M1rga02r=a The month corresponding to parts of Nov./ Dec. known also as
Sahas or Agrah1ya9a
vide also M1sa
Mar2ci $=i vide also Sapta4=i
Name of a
Marut Lit. 'shinning one' In the Veda-s the Storm-Gods sons of sages i.e. the Self-realized seers vide also $=i,
Rudra and companions of Indra symbolizing the liberated
Sapta4=i
M1sa Month The lunar months are K1rtika, M1rga02r=a ,
M1t1 Mother 96
Caitra, Vai01kha, Jye=7ha, !=18ha, )r1va9a, Bh1drapada, !0vina, Pau=a, M1gha, Ph1lguna.
M
M1ta^g2 The ninth of the ten virtues
Mah1vidy1-s representing the power to control and annihilate e vil and exercise
M1ta^gin2 Mudr1 The she-elephant
Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s
Ma7ha A place of hermitage; an
!0rama
Mati The quality of determination vide also Bh3ma Vidy1
M1tr1 A unit of time for measuring the duration of
Pr191y1ma approximated to one second or less
M1t4k1 Lit. 'source' Letters from A to Ha of
Devan1gari, the Sanskrit alphabet; divine mother
Its source is )abda, the letters symbolizing functions of the same creative force. The letters are to be regarded as Mantra-s, sounds representing the subtle forms of Devat1-s. M1t4 means means mother hence M1t4k1 emphasises a creative aspect. In symbols of the human subtle body, M1t4k1 -s are present on letters on the petals of Cakra-s. There are 50 letters of Devan1gari Devan1gari alphabet.
Matsya Fish; an Avat1ra of
Vi=9u as representation of the beginning of manifestation of the universe vide also Pa6ca Mak1ra Mak1ra
Matsy1sana The fish
!sana
Matsyendr1sana The king of fish
!sana
Mauna Vow of silence as a yogic
Praty1h1ra technique developing the attitude of a seer ( Dra=7a)
M1y1 Ved1nta It has two functions namely !vara9a and Vik=epa and manifests in the human mind as Avidy1. vide also M1y1 )akti, Brahman
Illusion of duality in
M1y1 B2ja vide Hr2%
M1y1 )akti The energy of illusion, the cosmic energy It is a manifestation of )akti which veils in various degrees Herself as consciousness. In M1y1 is real, only her manifestation becomes an illusion (mere semblance).
Tantra -s, 97
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
M1y1tattva The Tattva of
M1y1 )akti
May3r1sana The peacock
!sana
Meda Fat vide Dh1tu
Me8hra Penis
Mekhal1 (also Mekhala) Lit. 'girdle, belt; cere mony of investiture' Name of the girdle worn by the men of the first three cas tes of Hindu tradition
Brahman is made of Mu6ja, that of a K=atriya of M3rv1, that of a Vai0ya of )a9a. vide also Var9a, Ana^gamekhal1 Ana^gamekhal1 That of a
Meru Mythical mountain in the
Him1laya-s
Here is the centre of the world-lotus, in esoteric terms the
Sahasr1ra Sahasr1ra Cakra
Meru Da98a The vertebral column symbolized by the stem of the
V291 of Tripurasundar2 Tripurasundar2
M2m1%s1 +a8 Dar0ana-s It has two branches namely P3rva and Uttara M2m1%s1-s
One of the
M291k=i Lit. 'the one having fish-eyes' A form of )akti as spouse of (India); a daughter of Kubera
)iva; kind of Soma plant; a famous Tantric temple in Madhurai
Mi0ra Mixed
Mi0rabindu The point of return of thought after activity and the union with the pure thought One of the three manifestations.
Par1bindu-s representing the )iva )akti M1y1 as well as the Icch1 )akti as
vide Bindu, Par1bindu
Mit1h1ra Moderate diet vide also An1h1ra, Aty1h1ra
Mithuna M3rti 98
M
Statue of a couple in an erotic posture They are displayed in various temples like Khajuraho, Konarak Konara k, (in Trivandrum, Kerala, India), )r2ra^gan1tha (in )r2ra^gam).
M291k=i, Padman1bhasv1m2
Mitra Lit. 'friend' A name of Sun-god in the
Veda-s; one of the twelve !ditya-s
Mitra Satya The light of truth One of the eight
Devas3 -s, an aspect of Mitra.
Modin2 The delighting One
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental activity of Sukha (delighted). vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra One of the
Moha Infatuation, attachment
R1ga it is the passion associated with An1hata Cakra. vide also Pa6c1gni, P10a
Known also as
Mohaka Mohaka The J17har1gni (digestive fire) causing pain and fainting vide also Sarvapsitaphalaprad1
Mohana Infatuating, bewildering as expression of
K1ma
Mohi92 A fascinating woman; a form of
Dev2
Mok=a Liberation, release from worldly transmigration vide also Puru=1rtha Puru=1rtha
M4da%ga (also M4da^ga) A two-sided drum
M4du T2vrasa%vega Low intensity of eagerness as one of the three
T2vrasa%vega T2vrasa%vega-s
M4t1sana The corpse
!sana
M4ti Yoga The Yoga dealing with death
M4tyu6jaya Lit. 'conqueror of death' 99
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
A name of
)iva
M38ha Confused state as one of the five In this state
Cittabh3mi-s
Tamas Gu9a predominates.
Mudit1 The sentiment of joy
Mudit1 is also one of the Citta Pras1dana-s as an attitude towards virtuous people. vide also Maitry1di
Mudr1 Gesture of invocation
Mudr1-s represent the language in which the body speaks to the divinity, an expression of body consciousness. Through Mudr1-s, Sthirat1 is obtained, their practice brings certain experiences in the mind. There is an exoteric and esoteric symbolism of Mudr1-s. For the purpose of Mudr1 the five fingers correspond to the five Bh3ta-s. Example of Mudr1-s are Abhaya, Vara, Vy1khy1na, J61na, Pr19a, Ap1na, Li^ga, Varu9a , )3nya, Surabhi. Many other Mudr1-s are associated with Mudr1 Bandha techniques. vide also !tm1rpa9a, Pa6ca Mak1ra Mak1ra
Mudr1 Bandha Yoga technique of gesture and contraction practice Ten Mudr1-s are enumerated in the Ha7ha Yoga Prad2pik1 namely Mah1 Mudr1, Mah1 Bandha, Mah1 Vedha, Khecar2, U882y1na Bandha, M3la Bandha, J1landhara Bandha, Vipar2ta Kara92, Vajrol2 Vajr ol2, )aktic1lana. In the Ghera98a Sa%hit1 are enumerated twenty-five Mudr1-s, that are in fact Mudr1 Bandha-s namely Mah1 Mudr1, Nabhomudr1 , U882y1na , J1landhara, M3la Bandha, Mah1 Bandha, Mah1 Vedha, Khecar2, Vipar2ta Kara92, Yoni, Vajrol2, )aktic1lan2, T181g2 T181g2, M198uk2, )1mbhav2, Pa6cadh1ra91-s, (i.e. P4thiv2 Dh1ra91, !mbhas2 Dh1ra91, !gney2 Dh1ra91, V1yav2 Dh1ra91, !k102 Dh1ra91 ), A0vin2, P10in2, K1k2, M1ta^gin2, and Bhuja^gin2. A joined
Mudr1p27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of the
Dev2 in the Mudr1 form
vide also P27ha
Muh3rta An astronomically determined time of auspicious beginnings
Mukta A person of liberated soul vide also J2vanmukta
Mukt1sana The freedom
!sana
Muktatrive92 A name for M3l1dh1ra Cakra as a place of lower intersection of the three main of liberation ( Mukti) 100
N182 N182-s and giver
M
Mukti Final liberation vide also J2vanmukti
M3la Root, origin
M3la Bandha Lit. 'root lock'
Bandha as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s vide also Bandhatraya The root
M3la B2ja vide Hr2%
M3l1dh1ra Cakra Lit. 'root's support
Cakra a Cakr a'
The Cakra located between the scrotum and the anus
Cakra is associated with the J61nendriya of Ghr19a, the Karmendriya of P1yu, the Tanm1tra of Gandha, is the centre for Ap1na V1yu and the seat of Annamaya Ko0a, the level of awareness is Bh3rloka. vide also Muktatrive92, *1kin2 , Dh3mrali^ga This
M3la Mantra vide Hr2%
M3laprak4ti The primary cause of matter as transcendental basis of physical nature; the original root (out of which matter evolved) based in M3l1dh1ra Cakra in the human body vide also V1k , )abda
M3la )odhana Yogic technique of purification of the rectum with water in order to allow freely; one of the four Dhauti-s
Ap1na V1ya to flow
M3la Triko9a )r2 Yantra as seat (!sana) of Dev2 It represents the threefold process of S4=7i (creation), Sthiti (preservation) and Sa%h1ra
Primary triangle of the (dissolution).
M3la Triko9a Cakra Sarvasiddhiprada vide Sarvasiddhiprada
Cakra
Mumuk=u One aspiring to
Mok=a
Muni Lit. 'one who knows' A saint; one having spiritual knowledge 101
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Mu6ja (also Mau6ja) The specie of grass Saccharum Sara vide also Mekhal1
M3rch1 Lit. 'causing fainting (i.e. loosing the mental consciousness)' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
M3rti Image; symbol; figure; form of
Devat1
M3rv1 The specie of hemp Sanseviera Roxburghiana (also Maurva Maurva , M3rvik1) vide also Mekhal1
102
Pr191y1ma
N
N N1bhi Navel
N1bhipadma vide Ma9ip3ra Cakra
Nabhomudr1 The navel
Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s
N1ciket1gni Vidy1 The knowledge of the fire of
N1ciketas
A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) which deals with the heavenly fire and its correspondence in the human body, the heart ( H4d). vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1, Cidagni
N1ciketa (also N1ciketas) The young Brahmin in the
Ka7ha Upani=ad who received teachings from Lord Yama.
N1da Sound It represents the first impulse towards creation, the dual aspect of From N1da emerged B2ja.
)iva)iva-)akti -)akti as sound or word.
vide also Bindu
N1da Dh1ra9a Dh1ra9a on sound as a specific practice of concentration in order to obtain Divya )rotra vide also Jyoti=mat2
N1da Yoga Yoga of the sound as yogic concept based on sound consciousness
N1da Yoga Yoga practice using gross or subtle sounds leading in a specific way to the state of Sam1dhi
Kind of
N182 Lit. 'tube, pipe' Channel of energy in the subtle s ubtle body ( S3k=ma )ar2ra) Traditionally there are 72,000 N182-s in the human body as symbolized by V291's strings of Tripurasundar2 Tripurasundar2 . The fourteen main N182-s in the human body are Su=umn1, I81, Pi^gal1, Sarasvat2, )a^khin2, P3=1, G1ndh1r2, Payasvin2, Yo0ovat2, Hastijihv1, V1ru92 , Vi0vodar1, Kuh3, Ala%bus1. The most important N182-s are Su=umn1, I81 and Pi^gal1, out of which Su=umn1 is central to the experience of spiritual awakening.
N1ga 103
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Lit. 'snake, serpent'
V1yu producing the function of hiccup vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Cakra Sarvadu5khavimoci92 Sarv1rthas1dhaka Cakra, Sarvadu5khavimoci92
A naked ascetic; the
N1gan1yaka vide Ananta
Nak=atra Lit. 'star; constellation' Any heavenly body; a lunar mansion Traditionally there are twenty-seven constellations in number, each one related to a specific tree (Nak=atra V4k=1 ) or animal.
Nak=atra V4k=a V4k=a vide Nak=atra
N1ma Name
Nama5 Reverence, veneration as a
Mantra of invocation of a Devat1
N1m1kar=i92 N1ma Sarv101paripuraka Cakra vide also Sarv101paripuraka The attractive power of
N1mar3pa Name and form
M3laprak4ti is the source of all the manifestations of N1mar3pa world as products of V1k or )abda. vide also N1mar3pa Vidy1
N1mar3pa Vidy1 A S3k=ma (subtle) kind of worship as knowledge of name and form
Dev2 's worship the Lalit1 Sahasran1ma Stotra is the most relevant. vide also V1k , )abda, M3laprak4ti M3laprak4ti
For the purpose of
Namask1ra Salutation, homage
N1rada A sage devotee of Lord
K4=9a
vide Brahm1
N1rasi%ha (also Narasi%ha) A man-lion as
Avat1ra of Lord Vi=9u, a representation of transition between animal and human
N1r1ya9a Lit. 'the human path' 104
N
Devat1 as beginning of humanity; the first human; a name of Vi=9u
N1r2 Woman, wife
N10ik1gra D4=7i Seeing the tip of the nose as kind of
Dh1ra91 yogic practice
N1stika Non-believer in
Veda-s
All the literature not based on the
Veda-s is considered to be of N1stika kind
vide also !stika
Natar1ja Lit. 'king of dance'
)iva as Lord of Dance )iva dances upon the demon Apasm1ra who represents the ego which makes people forget their
An aspect of true nature.
vide also Rudra
N1tha Lit. 'help, protection'
)iva vide also Navan1tha Navan1tha
Lord; a name of
N1tim1nit1 Absence of pride as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Nauli One of the
+a7karma-s
Nava Cakra Lit. 'nine wheels'
)r2 Yantra In the )r2 Yantra the nine Cakra-s also represent S4=7i (Creation), Sthiti (Preservation) and Sa%h1ra Sa%h1ra (Dissolution), each Cakra being a mathematical arrangement a rrangement of three by two, therefore the Trailokyamohana represents the S4=7i S4=7i and the Bindu represents the Sa%h1ra Sa%h1ra.
A name for the
Navagraha The nine planets
Candra , Kuja Kuja, Bu Budha Guru, )ukra )ukra, )ani )ani, R1hu R1hu and Ketu. Ketu. The Navagraha-s are: S3rya, Candra Budha, Guru vide also Graha
Navam2 The ninth day of the bright half of the moon in every month vide also Mah1navam2
Navamu98i 105
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Lit. 'nine skulls' A Tantric practice to overcome fear ( Bhaya)
Navan1tha The nine Lords They are all aspects of )iva as three Divyaugha-s (Prak101nanda, Vimar01nanda and !nand1nanda), three Siddhaugha-s ()r2 J61n1nanda, )r2 Saty1nanda and )r2 P3r91nanda), three M1navaugha-s (Svabh1va, Pratibha Pratibha and Subhaga). The nine Lords helped )akti to reveal the Tantra01stra Tantra01stra on earth in the Satya Yuga as teachers, therefore they are the nine Tantric teachers.
Navaratna The nine precious gems They are Padmar1ga (ruby), Mukt1 (pearl), Prav1la (coral), Vaidurya (lapis lazuli), Pu=par1ga (topaz), Vajra (diamond), N2la (sapphire), Marakata (emerald), Gomeda (cow's fat stone).
Navar1tra A period of nine days
Navayon2 Cakra Lit. 'the wheel of nine
-s' Yoni -s'
vide )r2 Yantra
N1yik1 A female partner in the Tantric ritual
Ne=74 Ne=74 In the
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Adhvaryu priest
Neti Lit. 'not this'
+a7karma-s known also as Laulik2 Neti Neti is also a famous expression in the Upani=ad-s signifying that the human being is not part of the ever changing nature ( M1y1 ) seen now, nor part of this kind of creation ( S4=7i).
One of the
Netra Organ of sight, the eye vide also J61nendriya
Netratattva The Tattva of
Netra
Nidhi Siddhi The power of determination vide also Siddhi
Nidr1 Dreamless sleep as one of the five vide also Yoga Nidr1 106
Cittav4tti-s
N
Nidr1 J61na The state of conscious sleeping
Nigama Scripture
Nigama-s are considered to be the Veda-s or any work as auxiliary or explaining the Veda-s or a doctrine or instruction as words of gods or holy persons ( Muni-s). In the Tantra-s Nigama-s are sacred works in which Dev2 is Guru and )iva is )i=ya.
Nigarbha Sahita Pr191y1ma vide Sahita Kumbhaka
Nigrahahoma Homa with the purpose of restraining an enemy vide +a7karma for the magical rites in the Tantra-s.
N2laka97ha Lit. 'one having blue throat' A name of
)iva as the one who has taken poison in order to save the world
Nilapatak1 One of the
Nity1 )akti-s also known as N2lapat1kin2
N2lapat1kin2 vide N2lapatak1
Nir1k1ra Without form, ‘non-manifested’ as a name for
Nirgu9a Brahman
vide also !k1ra
Nira6jan1 Stainless; a name for
Sam1dhi; a name for Su=umn1 N182
Nirb2ja Sam1dhi Sam1dhi without seed (B2ja) beyond Pratyaya and devoid of awareness A stage of Sam1dhi in which the !tmadra=7a is able to reach the Ali^ga, the stillness as state of non-differentiation of the three Gu9a-s. Nirb2ja Sam1dhi is the union with the Divine and the final goal for liberation. Beyond that is a different reality subject to Dharmamegha Sam1dhi. vide also Sab2ja Sam1dhi
Nirgu9a Without quality or attribute
Brahman, Nirgu9a is beyond any description. vide also Sagu9a
As an aspect of
Nirgu9a Brahman The Universal Spirit without qualities
Nir1k1ra vide also Brahman, Parabrahman, Avyakta, @0vara , Nir1k1ra
Nirgu9op1sana 107
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
The contemplation experience after the
$tambhar1 Prajn1 state
vide also Sabu9op1sana
Nirliptat1 Lit. 'out of being attached' Detachment as a result of practicing
Sam1dhi as the experience of the cosmic self ( Param1tm1)
Nirmana Citta The divine mind simultaneously experienced through Sa%yama on Mah1tattva of artificially created minds of a Yog2 in order to get consciousness of past Karma-s and enjoy their fruits By the enjoyment of the fruits of past Karma-s the Yog2 becomes free of various Karm10aya-s. The created minds are under the control of Yog2's natural mind that directs them in various planes of consciousness, so the whole experience is entirely conscious. The created minds are to be seen as expressing various kinds of personalities when the experience is downloaded to the Yog2's natural mind that becomes gradually free of Sa%skara-s. vide also Nirmanak1ya Citta
Nirmanak1ya Nirmanak1ya Citta The causal individual mind experience as source of particular Citta (divine mind)
V1san1-s, an expression of Nirmana
Nirodha Lit. 'restrain; cessation; dissolution'
Yoga path; a synonym s ynonym for Pr191y1ma or for Kumbhaka As cessation Nirodha refers to Cittav4ttinirodha as definition of Yoga. Restriction to be observed on the
Nirodha Pari91ma Transformation of perception of the mind as one of the three
Pari91ma-s
vide also Avasth1 Pari91ma
Nirodha Yoga The Yoga of cessation of any kind of
Cittav4tti Cittav4tti-s
Niruddha Cittabh3mi-s The restrained state refers to the eleven Indriya-s therefore Niruddha state is a kind of Praty1h1ra. Restrained state as one of the five
Nirupakrama Karma Karma that is not producing any fruits in the present vide also Apar1ntaj61na, Sa^cita Karma
The dormant
Nirv19a Emancipation; bliss; self-realization
Nirvic1r1 Sam1dhi without Vic1ra ' ' Sam1dhi without State of Sam1dhi in which the consciousness is experienced as reflection of the form beyond the state of Vic1ra With the accomplishment of Nirvic1r1 Sam1dhi the Dra=7a becomes !tmadra=7a and is already
Lit. '
108
N
inside the experience of spiritual salvation. This state of Asampraj61ta Sam1dhi.
Sam1dhi is also known as Nirvic1r1
vide also $tambhar1 Prajn1
Nirvikalpa Sam1dhi Sam1dhi without without Vikalpa ' ' State of Sam1dhi in which there is no separation between J61t1 (one who knows) and J6eya (object of knowledge) as full expression of union with Sagu9a Brahman This experience in Yoga is similar to the experience of consciousness at Sahasr1ra Cakra Cakra level in Tantra.
Lit. '
Nirvitark1 Sam1dhi Sam1dhi without Vitarka ' ' State of Sam1dhi in which the mind is devoid of awareness and the knowledge of the form comes from within and beyond the state of Vitarka Nirvitarka This state of Sam1dhi is also known as Nir vitarka Asampraj61ta Sam1dhi.
Lit. '
Ni01cara Lit. 'one who acts during the night' A demon using the dark of night for wrong doings
Ni=kala Without parts The kind of form ( Ni=kalar3pa) of
Brahman that can only be attained through J61na.
Ni=k1ma Without desire
Ni=k1ma Ni= k1ma Karma Action without desire as an attitude of a no sense of doing of actions ( Karma-s)
Yog2 who is free to accumulating Sa%sk1ra-s, i.e. there is
Ni=k1ma S1dhaka Kind of Yoga practitioner known also as aware of all the four Puru=1rtha-s
Sanny1sin walking the path of liberation and being
Ni=patti Avasth1 The final stage of the four Yoga unity in Sahasr1ra Cakra
Avasth1-s when the consciousness of the Yog2 has reached the
Ni=7h1 The quality of firmness in service vide also Bh3ma Vidy1
Nitya Eternal, perpetual
Nity1 One of the
Nity1 )akti-s
Nity1klinn1 109
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
One of the
Nity1 )akti-s
Nity1 )akti The eternal expressed by the moon
Nity1 )akti-s are K1me0var2, Bhagam1lin2, Nity1klinn1, Bheru981, Vahniv1sin2, Mah1vajre0var2, D3t2, Tvarit1, Kulasundar2, Nity1 Nity1, Nilapatak1, Vijay1, Sarvama^gal1, Jv1l1m1lin2, Citr1, !dy1. They preside over the sixteen days/ nights between new-moon and fullmoon. Each one has a specific Yantra, the full description is in the work known as Tantrar1ja Tantra. vide also Candrakal1
The sixteen
Niv4tti The dissolution (return) process as a mind experience vide also Prav4tti
Niyama Lit. 'restraining'
A^ga-s of the A=71^ga Yoga of Pata6jali It contains five inner disciplines to be observed namely )auca, Santo=a, Tapas, Sv1dhy1ya, @0varapra9idh1na @0varapra9i dh1na, all as expressions of a balanced state of mind. One of the eight
Niyati Not joined
Niyati Ka6cuka Form of )akti limiting the perception of the unity of cause and effect as being one with the primordial )iva )akti; the Ka6cuka separating cause and effect vide also Tattva,
Niyatitattva
Niyatitattva The Tattva of
Niyati Ka6cuka
Ny1sa Lit. 'placing, applying' Awareness of a particular Devat1 as assigned or installed in specific parts of the body; psycho physical posture; renunciation
Ny1sa practices refer to Ga9e=a, Graha, Nak=atra, Yogin2, R10i and P27ha. vide also A^ga Ny1sa
The six principal
Ny1ya One of the
110
+ad Dar0ana-s
O
O O8821na P27ha vide U882y1na P27ha
Ojas Lit. 'vigour, bodily strength, energy' Vitality
O% The most celebrated of all
Mantra-s known also as Pra9ava or O%k1ra
As attributes it is circular in form, eternal, pervading all. Various actions such as recitation, reading rites, penance, sacrifices, Yoga techniques, Kirtan, in short every spiritual act should be preceded by O%. In its detailed form O% consists of five parts A, U, M, N1da and Bindu corresponding to the five gods Brahm1, Vi=9u, Rudra, @0vara and Sad10iva. There are different kinds of pronunciation of the sacred syllable namely Kulluk1, Setu, Mah1setu. For its use in the Vedic perspective, there t here are four Svara-s (tones) of Pra9ava, i.e. Ud1tta (for Br1hma9a-s), Anud1tta (for K=atriya-s), Pracita (for Vai0ya-s) and Auk1ra (for )3dra-s). The chanting of O% Mantra is in fact the chanting of the name of God. In many books O% is described as having three parts A, U, M for the threefold designation of Brahman as Brahm1, Vi=9u and Rudra. There is a rich literature to describe Pra9ava AUM as indicating three Veda-s, three V4tti-s, three Loka-s, three Granthi-s, etc. vide also Udg2ta Vidy1,
Udg2ta
O%k1ra vide O%
O% Nama5 )iv1ya vide Pa6c1k=ar2
O=adhi (also Au=adhi) Lit. 'light receptacle' Herb, any medicinal herb; creature There are fifty relevant herbs, one for each of the fifty letters of Sanskrit alphabet (
Devan1gari).
111
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
P Pacaka Pac aka The J17har1gni of digestion of food vide also Sarva0aktiprad1
P1da Foot; chapter vide also Karmendriya
P1da Sev1na One of the nine
A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga as the devotional act of service to the feet of the Lord
P1datattva The Tattva of P1da
Padma Lotus vide also Cakra
Padm1sana The lotus !sana
Padmin2 The first of the four classes into which females are divided, the other three are said to be Citri92 and Hastin2
)a^khin2,
P1duk1 Siddhi The power to impress somebody vide also Siddhi
Pa6cabh3ta vide Bh3ta
Pa6cada01k=ar2 vide Pa6cada02
Pa6cada02 Mantra, the Dev2 Herself in Her S3k=ma form It is to be learned from a qualified Guru. Pa6cada02 is known also as Pa6cada0ak=ar2, )r2 Vidy1 Mantra, Vidy1r1ja, G1yatr2 of the )1kta-s, etc. It contains three groups ( K37a-s) i.e. V1gbhavak37a, Madhyak37a or K1mar1jak37a and )aktik37a. The three K37a-s are identified with the face, the trunk and the limbs of Dev2 . It has the body of three and a half as expressing the Ku98alin2 )akti. The work Lalit1tri0at2 Lalit1tri0at2 gives the Mantra indirectly in the three hundred names
The fifteen-syllables
where there are twenty names beginning with each of the syllables.
Pa6cadh1ra91 112
P
The five Dh1ra91-s namely P4thiv2, !mbhas2, !gney2, V1yav2 and s (vide)
!k102 as Mudr1 Bandha-
Pa6c1gni Lit. 'the five fires '
Cakra-s K1ma, Krodha Moha (Sa^ga or R1ga) and Mada (or The Pa6c1gni-s are Lobha, K1ma Krodha (or Dve=a), Moha Smaya). The Abhivyaktik1ra9a of Pa6c1gni-s are the Sa%sk1ra-s. Passions associated with the five lower
Pa6c1gni Vidy1 The knowledge of the five fires A Vidy1 Vidya (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) is fully described in the Yama. the knowledge told to N1ciketas by Yama.
)atapatha Br1hma9a as
Tejas, Pa6c1gni Pa6c1gni vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1, Tejas
Pa6cako=a The five bodily sheaths ( Ko0a-s)
Pa6cak=ar2 The five-syllables
Mantra Mantr a i.e. O% Nama5 )iv1ya
Pa6ca Mak1ra The five M's A form of Up1sana the Pa6ca Mak1ra-s are Madya (wine), M1%sa (meat), Matsya (fish), Mudr1 (parched cereals) and Maithuna (sexual union). The five M's are s ymbols of different stages in the Pr191y1ma i.e. Pr191y1ma Pr191y1ma, Praty1h1ra, Dh1ra91, Dhy1na and Sam1dhi, behind their ordinary meanings is the transcendence of human addictions.
Pa6camu98i The Tantric practice of the five skulls
Pa6ca Sahita Pr191y1ma Pr191y1ma-s Advanced Pr191y1ma techniques for body regeneration.
The five united
Pa6catattva The five lower
Tattva-s namely P4thiv2, Ap Ap, Tejas Tejas, V1yu V1yu and !k10a
Pa6catattva Dh1ra91 Meditation on the
Pa6catattva-s
Pa98it Scholar; pandit
P198itya Proficiency in learning and wisdom; e rudition It is of four kinds viz.
V1ditva Kavitva, V1gmitva V1gmitva and Vy1khy1t4tva. V1ditva, Kavitva
P19i Hand (from the root
P1 i.e. to drink) 113
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide also Karmendriya
P19ini The great grammarian of the 7th century BCE
P19itattva The Tattva of P19i
P1pa Vice, sin
Par1 (also Para) Lit. 'supreme' The supreme state; the transcendental state of
)abda
The supreme state is experiencing the union with the supreme consciousness.
Par1bindu Bindu as the original Bindu Represented by a triangle Par1bindu is differentiated into )vetabindu, Raktabindu and Mi0rabindu Mi0rabindu called together K1makal1. Figuratively is described as Mah1tripurasundar2 residing at the centre of the )ri Yantra. vide also Sarv1nandamaya Cakra The supreme
Parabrahman Supreme Brahman, unconditioned Absolute As manifested principle Parabrahman has many names such as Tat , Asat, Avyakta, Nirgu9a Brahman etc. Parabrahman as Supreme Absolute is the upper reality generating two kinds of monotheism in the Hindu tradition; one is centred upon a supreme God ( Parama0iva) and another upon a supreme Goddess ( Dev2, Lalit1 Lalit1, Ma Mah10akti Mah10akti or Parama0akti). vide also Para%jyoti=
Paradhy1na The supreme form of meditation
Par1ha%t1 The supreme Ego i.e. the supreme consciousness
Param (also Parama) Supreme
Paramaha%sa Lit. 'supreme swan' One of the advanced stages of spiritual life of a vide also Sa%ny1sa,
Sanny1sin
Ha%sa
Param1k10a The second of the
Vyoma Pa6caka-s described as the supreme space
Param19u The ultimate atom ( A9u ) 114
P
Paramapuru=a Vidy1 The knowledge of the supreme
Puru=a
A Veda Vidy1 one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s in which N1ciketas N1ciketas is instructed by Yama in knowing various stages ( Indriya-s, Manas, Buddhi, Avyakta) leading to the knowledge of the supreme Puru=a. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Parama0akti )akti vide also Parabrahman The Supreme
Parama0iva )iva vide also Parabrahman Parabrahman The Supreme
Parama0iva Parama0akti The Supreme
)iva )akti
)iva is the static aspect and )akti the active It is the Supreme consciousness as Nirgu9a, in which )iva aspect of the same Supreme Consciousness ( Cit ). The static and active aspects have to be seen only as potentialities without any characteristics i.e. Parama0iva is the potentiality of consciousness and Parama0akti the potentiality of manifestation.
Param1tm1 vide Param1tman
Param1tman
(also Param1tm1)
The Supreme Soul as compared to
J2v1tman, the individual Soul
Param1tman and J2v1tman are two manifestations (one external and one internal as refers to the human being) of the same Reality ( Sat ).
Para%jyoti= Supreme Light The light beyond the five gates (vide Devasu=i ), the light of Parabrahman.
J2v1tman. Para%jyoti= is also
Par1n1da The supreme sound
Par1p3j1 Lit. 'supreme worship' A ritual form of transcendental worship vide also P3j1
Para0ur1ma Avat1ra of Vi=9u, a representation of the emergency of the brave man sometimes called J1madagnya or Bh1rgava Bh1rgava (as descending from Bh4gu) An
Para0ur1ma Sutra An authoritative scripture of
Kaula doctrine of Tantra 115
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Paravairagya Highest
Vairagya in which various roots of bondage are eliminated through a direct cognition of
Puru=a
Par1tpar1 Supreme of the Supreme
P1r1ya9a P1r1 ya9a Daily reading of a sacred text
Paricaya Avasth1 A Yoga Avasth1 of a Yog2 after overcoming the
Rudragranthi
Pari91ma Sa%yama; principle of evolution; change in general As a result of Sa%yama the Pari91ma-s are of three kinds viz. Sam1dhi Pari91ma, Ek1grat1 Pari91ma and Nirodha Pari91ma. Each one is accompanied by three stages of transformations of properties of the mind viz. Dharma Pari91ma, Lak=a9a Pari91ma and Avasth1 Pari91ma. Pari91ma is also the change accompanying every action ( Karma). As principle of evolution there are five stages of Pari91ma namely: from non-manifest to manifest, from mineral to vegetable, Transformation as a result of performing
from vegetable to animal, from animal to human, from human to superhuman. vide also Prak4ti
Pari0rama Pari0rama Physical labour as technique for body purification vide also Karma Yoga
Pari0uddhi Purification of memory vide also )uddhi
P1rvat2 Lit. 'stream of a mountain' A name of
)akti
)iva's spouse as daughter of Himavat the mountain King of Kail1sa. She is often depicted with folded hands (vide Svastika) and her face full of devotion for her Lord )iva. vide also Dev2
Parya^ka The couch on which Brahm1 sits in the Brahmaloka. Every part of the couch represents a specific manifestation related to Brahm1.
Parya^ka Vidy1 Vidy1 The knowledge of the couch A Veda Vidy1 one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s in which the devotee is led in successive stages to (ya lakes, then I=7ihan reach the Parya^ka. The obstacles in the Brahmaloka start with !ra and (ya place and time, Viraj1 river, Ilya tree (an A0vattha tree named Somasavana), S1lajja city, Apar1jita palace, Indra and Praj1pati as doorkeepers, Vibhu hall, Vicak=a9a throne and finally Parya^ka couch. 116
P
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
P10a Lit. 'knot; bondage; noose' The noose as representation of
R1ga
vide also P101^ku0a
P101^ku0a Noose and goad Corresponds to the attraction and repulsion, passion and anger, love and hate, denoting Dve=a. The P101^ku0a P101^ku0a B2ja Mantra is O% Hr2% Kro%.
R1ga and
P10a, A^ku0a A^ku0a vide also !yudha Devat1, P10a
Pa0cimott1n1sana The back-stretcher
!sana
P10in2 Mudr1 The noose ( P10a) Mudr1 as one of the
Mudr1 Bandha-s
Pa0u Lit. 'cattle; animal; an ignorant person' Conditioned individual; a kind of predominant
S1dhaka in the Tantra-s in whom the Tamas Gu9a is
Pa0u Bh1va Bh1va Bh1va-s as a state of human personality based on instinct, therefore of Tamas nature vide also S1dhaka One of the
Pa0un1tha Lit. 'lord of cattle' A name of
)iva
Pa0upati Lit. 'lord of animals; lord of the souls cover ed by ignorance' A name of
)iva
Pa0y1c1ra The first kind of initiation in the
Tantra S1dhana (vide) when a Mantra is given by a Guru
Pa0yanti The mental stage of
)abda
P1t1laloka vide Loka
Pata6jali The author of the
Yoga treatise Yoga S3tra
He lived probably around year 200 BCE.
Pau=a 117
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The month corresponding to parts of Dec./ Jan. vide also M1sa
Pavam1na In the
Veda-s the self-purifier i.e. the mind
Payasvin2 N182 The N182 connected to the right ankle vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvaj4mbhi92 Sarvaj4mbhi92 Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
P1yu Anus vide also Karmendriya
P1yutattva The Tattva of
P1yu
Phala Effect of an experience having the source a cause ( Hetu) vide also V1san1
Phala0ruti The panegyric of accruing benefits of a text in the
Stotra literature
Ph1lguna The month corresponding to parts of Feb./ Mar. vide also M1sa
Pi98a Mantra (vide) )ar ar22ra ya vide also Deha, ) )ar 2ra, K1 K11ya
Body; a monosyllable
Pi98198a Lit. 'the body-egg' The human body as Microcosm, a reproduction of
Brahm198a
Known also as K=udra Brahm198a, the A98a (egg) is seen as the potentiality of reproducing its own original source, the Brahm198a. Pi98198a is the link between the earth and the cosmic planes, a unity of psycho-cosmic experiences. For the purpose of meditation Pi98198a is divided into five parts extending from soles to the top of the head, P4thiv2 (from soles to knees), Ap (from knees to hips), Tejas (from nose to the navel), V1yu (from navel to nose), !k10a (from nose to the top of the head). Therefore Pi98198a made up of Bh3ta-s is the representation of the cosmic man. vide also A98api98a
Pi^gal1 N182 Known also as S3rya S3r ya N182 it is one of the major side of Su=umn1, the central channel
N182-s (in the human body) running up the right
vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvamantramay2, Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
P27ha 118
S3rya, A0vini
P
Place of pilgrimage; shrine, temple; a symbol of creation as attribute of the Dev2 (Goddess); a Tantric sacred place where the fifty parts of Sat2-s body fell, so becoming pilgrimage centres Known also as P27hasth1na-s, the P27ha-s can be of Sth3la (gross), S3k=ma (subtle) and K1ra9a (causal) forms and experienced as Vidy1p27ha Vi dy1p27ha-s, Ma98alap27ha-s, Yon2p27ha-s, Stanap27ha-s, Dev2p27ha-s, Siddhap27ha-s, etc. They may or may not have holy shrines like P27hat2rtha-s or P27hak=etra-s do. The P27ha-s is where Dev2 resides in a form or as different parts of the body of Sat2.
P27hak=etra P27hak=etra Location of a
P27ha in a K=etra place; holy shrine
P27hasth1na vide P27ha
P27hat2rtha Location of a
P27ha in a T2rtha place; holy shrine
Pit4 Ancestor vide also Dhenu, !nandamaya Vidy1
Pitta One of the three
Do=a-s
In !yurveda system of medicine a deficiency of bile as a cause to diseases.
Pl1vaka The J17har1gni of flooding of gastric juice vide also Sarvavy1dhivin10in2
Pl1vin2 Lit. 'causing floating' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Pr191y1ma-s
Pot4 In the
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Br1hma9a priest
Pracetas Lit. 'clever, wise' vide Dak=a,
Brahm1
Pradak=i9a The act of turning towards persons or objects so as to place them on one's right side of the body as form of worship vide also !tm1rpa9a
Pradh1na The universal Soul as primary germ of the material universe In S1mkhya philosophy
Pradh1na is similar to Prak4ti.
Pradyumna 119
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Lit. 'he who conquers everything' One of the names of
K1madeva as one who overcomes any obstacle for the sake of love
Praj1pati Lit. 'lord of creatures' A god having a dominant position in t he Veda-s, sometimes identified with Indra and the first ten created beings of Brahm1 (vide)
or Agni, Soma, Savit4 or
vide also Parya^ka Vidy1, !nandamaya Vidy1
Praj61 Lit. 'to know, understand' Wisdom, knowledge, consciousness personified as goddess
Sarasvat2
vide also J61na
Pr1jna K1ra9a )ar2ra vide also J2v1tman
The Soul in the
Praj61jyoti A Yog2 who can experience the light ( Jyoti) of consciousness ( Praj61)
Praj61nam Brahm1 'The ultimate truth is consciousness' a celebrated statement in the
Upani=ad-s
vide also Mah1vakya
Pr1k1mya Lit. 'freedom of will' One of the eight yogic powers of possessing irresistible determination vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi
Prak10a Lit. 'shinning, bright; manifest; light' A name for the pure Self
Prak10a Pr ak10a !vara9a Covering of the light, as a veil to knowledge of the Self
Prak4ti Lit. 'primary substance; nature; original form, primordial matrix'
)akti as personified energy in the creation; the Primordial Female Principle in Yoga Triggered by Pari91ma Pari91ma, the primary substance takes various successive forms marked by Gu9a-s. vide also Trigu91tmik1, M1y1, )akti, Tattva, A=7asiddhi A name of
Prak4ti Tattva The Tattva of Prak4tii) (Prak4t
Prak4ti consisting of the three Gu9a-s giving birth to all manifestations of nature
Prak4ty1p3r1t 120
P
The overflow of
Park4ti (nature) caused by the removal of Avidy1
After this experience the development of the super-consciousness occurred. vide also J1tyantara Pari91ma
Pralaya Dissolution of the physical universe as opposed to
S4=7i (creation)
vide also Mah1pralaya, Brahm198a
Pram1da The state of carelessness as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s
Pram19a Vidy1 and one of the five Cittav4tti-s Pram19a is of three kinds namely Pratyak=a, Anum1na and !gama. vide also Viparyaya Correct knowledge as a form of
Pr19a Lit. 'breath of life; spirit; vitality' vi tality' The V1yu which draws the life-force into the body vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvasiddhiprad1, Devasu=i
Pr191gnihotra Vidy1 Pr19a to Agni A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) containing also two other Vidy1-s namely Pr19a and Pratardana. This Vidy1 deals with the sacrifice of the speech ( V1c) to the breath and of the breath as the five Pr19a-s to the internal fire by breathing or taking food as acts of oblation. This sacrifice leads to Pratardana the act of piercing of the Granthi-s by Ku98ali92 )akti. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 The knowledge of sacrificing
Pra91ma Lit. 'bowing' The act of prostration or obeisance vide also !tm1rpa9a
Pr19amaya Ko0a The body of energy as sphere of consciousness
Ko0a is the expression and experience of the energy field and has the seat in the Svadhi=7h1na and Ma9ip3ra Cakra-s
This
Pr19a Mudr1 The gesture of acquiring
Pr19a energy
Pr19a )akti The awareness of space ( !k10a) as one of the Karmendriya-s to function It is the pranic kind of energy (vide
)akti-s flowing through Pi^gal1 N182 enabling the
)akti).
vide also )iva )akti 121
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Pra9ava vide O% vide also T1raka
Pr19a Vidy1 The knowledge of
Pr19a
Veda Vidy1, which together with Pratardana Vidy1 is contained within the Pr191gnihotra Vidy1. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 A
Pr191y1ma Lit. 'lengthening of the breath' The process of expansion and regulation of the flow of energy within human body; in Yoga one of the eight A^ga-s of the A=71^ga Yoga of
Pr19amaya Ko0a of the Pata6jali
Through Pr191y1ma, Laghim1 is obtained and Prak10a !vara9a will gradually disappear. It has three states viz. P3raka, Kumbhaka and Recaka, it is regulated by De0a (place as climate), K1la (time as duration of the three states) and S1^khya (number of rounds). There is one more state (beyond the Indriya-s experiences) named Caturtha Pr191y1ma, a continuous awareness of the breath, i.e. Ajapajapa practice. As a form of rite Pr191y1ma is identified with Agnihotra.
Ha7ha Yoga Prad2pik1 eight major kinds of Pr191y1ma are enumerated viz. S3rya Bheda, Ujj1y2, )2tk1r2, )2tal2, Bhastrik1, Bhr1mar2, M3rch1 and Pl1vin2. There are many other Pr191y1ma-s both from Tantric and Vedic traditions. The Ghera98a Sa%hit1 enumerates also eight major kinds of Pr191y1ma viz. Sahita, S3rya Bheda, Ujj1y2, )2tal2, Bhastrik1, Bhr1mar2, M3rch1 and Keval2. vide also Nirodha In
Pr192 The breathing creature
Pra9idh1na Lit. 'put completely' Surrender to God as a sure way to Self-realization
Pr1pti Lit. 'reaching; obtaining' One of the yogic powers of obtaining anything at will vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi
Pr1rabdha Lit. 'undertaking, beginning' Commencement of an action
Pr1rabdha Karma Past action producing result in the present, a synonym to
Pras1da Grace; the offering of food as sign of grace
Prasa%khy1na 122
Sopakrama Karma
P
Kind of Dhy1na (meditation, reflection) in which the practitioner will accept goods only for the present needs
Prasava Lit. 'impulse forward'
Prak4ti when the elements of nature produce more effects vide also Pratiprasava, Vyakta
Evolution as state of
Prast1va The chanting of prelude sung by the
Prastrot4 priest priest
Prastot4 In the
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Udg1t4 priest priest by chanting the Prast1va
Pratardana Vidy1 The knowledge of the piercing
Vidy1 dy1 which together with A Veda Vi
Pr19a Vidy1 is contained within the Pr191gnihotra Vidy1.
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Prathamakalpika A Yog2 as beginner in experiencing
Sam1dhi
Pr1tibha Lit. 'to shine upon' The reflective Self; a specific power acquired naturally (without the knowledge of the Self In the state of Pr1tibha the supernatural senses of arise naturally as Siddhi-s.
Sa%yama) by somebody having
)r1va9a, Vedana, !dar0a , !sv1da and V1rta
Pr1tibha J61na Lit. 'knowledge flashing upon the thoughts' Intuition
Pratihart4 Pratihart4 tihart4 Lit. 'the one bringing back' In the
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Udg1t4 priest priest
Pratim1 (Devat1pratim1) Icon of a deity, quasi similar to
Murti in two-dimensional form
Pratipad The new-moon time
Pratipak=a Bh1vana The practice of thinking of the opposite quality in order to transform the negative habits into positive ones
Pratiprasava Prak4ti when the elements of nature return to their original cause vide also Prasava, Vyakta, Yoga
Involution as state of
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Pratiprasth1t4 In the
Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Adhvaryu priest
Pratyabhij61 The consciousness recognizing the identity of the individual Soul and the Supreme Soul as state of illumined knowledge vide also Savic1r1 Sam1dhi
Praty1h1ra Awareness as an externalised (first) then internalised state, the gradual withdrawal of the mind from the objects experience In Yoga one of the eight A^ga-s of the A=71^ga Yoga of Pata6jali, the first step in i n understanding the pure mind. Through Praty1h1ra, Dhairyat1 is obtained. This transitional (between the outer and inner experiences) step in Yoga employs various practices like Japa, K2rtana, Tr17aka, N1da Yoga, Tantra S1dhana. vide also Indriya
Pratyak=a Correct knowledge based on non-defective senses as one of the three
Pram19a-s
Pratyak=atva Conscious and continuous perception as a result of practicing
Dhy1na
Pratyaya In Yoga the basis (as content of mind) on which the consciousness functions
Pratyaya is subject to the three Gu9a-s
Prav4tti The creative process as mind faculty vide also Niv4tti, Jyoti=mat2 Jyoti=mat2 Prav4tti
Pray1ga Lit. 'place of sacrifice' A place of pilgrimage near All1h1b1d (India) where is the confluence of three rivers namely Ga^g1, Yamun1 and Sarasvat2 The confluence is also known as Trive92, symbolically corresponding to !j61 Cakra vide also Lalit1, )y1ma
Prayoga Recitation of a sacred formula
Pr2ti Lit. 'joy' One of the two wives of
Priya Dear, beloved
P4thiv2 (also P4thv2) 124
K1madeva
P
Earth The A%0a-s of
P4thiv2 in the Pi98198a are the five Karmendriya-s vide also Bh3ta
P4thiv2 Dh1ra91 The Dh1ra91 on earth as one of the
Pa6cadh1ra91-s
P4thiv2tattva The Tattva of
P4thiv2 known also as Bh3mitattva
Puhapak1sana vide Tantr1sana
P3j1 Recitation; ritual; chanting or reading of a sacred text as a ritual practice of worship Known also as Arcan1, P3j1 is part of the nine A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga. The ritual practice is of three kinds viz. B1hyap3j1, M1nasap3j1 and Par1p3j1, and is both internal and external. The fundamental concept of ritual is its cosmic meaning; any P3j1 is an involvement of the cosmic energies.
P3jar2 Performer of recitation of a sacred text (vide
P3j1)
P3jy1 Worthy of devoted worship
Pulaha $=i vide also Sapta4=i, Brahm1
Name of a
Pulastya $=i vide also Sapta4=i, Brahm1
Name of a
Punarjanma Rebirth as a result of Soul transmigration
Pu9ya Virtue, merit; holy vide also Dharma
Pura Lit. 'in advance, forward; a stronghold, fortress' The human body; the living principle, life
P3raka Controlled inspiration of breath as one of the three states of
Pr191y1ma
Pur19a Lit. 'ancient' 125
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A class of Sanskrit scripture of stories about gods as manifestations of one reality
Pur19a-s are written in a popular manner and considered to be part of sacred books of Hinduism.
Pura0cara9a Repetition of
Mantra-s under certain conditions for a specific number of times
P3r9a Lit. 'full, complete' One of the stages of
Sanny1sa lifestyle when the Sanny1sin is firmly established in the life of an
!0rama P3r9a Sanny1sa is also the first stage of Tantric initiation.
P3rnabhi=eka Full initiation as a special ceremony in the
)1kta tradition
P3r9agiri P27ha Sarvasiddhiprada vide Sarvasiddhiprada
Cakra vide also P27ha, Catu=p27ha In the S3k=ma )ar2ra (the subtle body) it is equated with An1hata Cakra.
P3rn1huti Complete offering (oblation) when the ladle is emptied
P3r9am1s2 The full-moon time
P3r9im1 The day of full-moon
P3r9im1r1rti The night of full-moon
Puru=a Lit. 'sleeping town; male' A particular manifestation of consciousness as a transformation of )iva into a passive witness of Prak4ti; the Primordial Male Principle in Yoga; a conscious being as a small scale replica of the Creator In the Veda Vidy1-s, Puru=a as an external expression is the Sun, as internal expression is the right eye or Indra. In Yoga philosophy Puru=a is an awareness in course of evolution experienced beyond the Cittav4tti-s and the Gu9a-s eventually, so leading to Self-realization. There are infinite stages of mental consciousness therefore infinite Puru=a-s (vide Vai0v1nara Puru=a, Tejom1y1 Puru=a, Vi0va Puru=a) all as hidden cause of manifestations. vide also )iva )iva, Brahman,
U=as , Indra
Puru=a Prak4ti )iva )akti principle The interplay between Puru=a and Prak4ti is the cause of all manifested world. A fundamental concept in experiencing Puru=a is that it starts with the instrumentality of Prak4ti. vide also Bindu, V4=abha Dhenu The dual transformation of
126
P
Puru=1rtha Lit. 'aim of
Puru=a '
Object of human desire There are four
Puru=1rtha-s viz. K1ma, Artha, Dharma and Mok=a
Puru=atattva The Tattva of
Puru=a
Puru=a Vidy1 The knowledge of
Puru=a
A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Sacrificer and Puru=a the Y1j6a.
Vidy1-s. In this Vidy1, the human being is seen as the
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Puru=avi0e=a A state of consciousness, which manifests in every human being as experience of the Divine
P3rvac2ti Lit. 'first thought' In the
Veda-s the original basis of consciousness as Brahman
P3rvap2ti Lit. 'first drinking' In the
Veda-s the original absorption into Brahman
P3=an A god in the
Veda-s representing prosperity; one of the twelve !ditya-s
P3=1 N182 The N182 connected to the left thigh
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvara6ja92 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Pu=pa Flower; menstrual flow
Pu=pi92 A woman in her period
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R R1dh1 K4=9a's beloved The love between K4=9a and R1dh1 symbolizes the human-God relationship, which becomes complete only when the human surrenders completely to God.
R1ga (from the root
Ra6j i.e. to be attracted by)
Lit. 'red colour; passion' Infatuation; love; passion; attachment as one of the five
Kle0a-s known also as Moha
vide also P10a, P101^ku0a P101^ku0a, Vair1gya
R1ga Ka6cuk Ka6cukaa Form of )akti limiting the perception of the real nature of love as being one with the primordial unity of )iva )akti
R1gatattva vide also Tattva, R1gatattva
R1gatattva The Tattva of R1ga Ka6cuka
Rahasya Lit. 'secret' The secret doctrine of esoteric teaching
Rahasya Rahasya N1ma Sahasra The thousand secret names
R1hu The ascending node in the astronomy/ astrology one of the
Navagraha-s
Raja The pollen of flowers; the menstrual excretion'
Rajas Lit. 'emotion, affection' The quality of passion, activity and motion; the woman's menstrual discharge
Gu9a-s sometimes identified with Tejas. Sarvarogahara Cakra, Jayin2 vide also Sarvarogahara Jayin2
One of the three
Rajas Tapas The purification of vide also Tapas
R1ja Yoga 128
Rajas Gu9a
R
The royal
Yoga
R1ja Yoga Sam1dhi The Sam1dhi as a result of
R1ja Yoga practice
R1ki92 The )akti residing in
Sv1dhi=7h1na Cakra
R1k=asa A kind of demon The abode of R1k=asa-s was known as R1va9a .
)r2 La^ka (former Ceylon), the domain of the great R1k=asa
Rakta Blood vide also Dh1tu
Raktabindu Lit. 'red spot' The point of activity of thought vide Bindu One of the three manifestation.
Par1bindu-s, it represents the )akti M1y1 as well as the Kriy1 )akti as
Rakt1mbara Lit. 'red clothed' A mendicant wearing red garment vide also Digambara
Ra% vide Agni
B2ja
R1ma (from the root Ram i.e. to rejoice) Lit. 'charming, lovely'
Vi=9u as symbol of joy within It is considered that R1ma appeared on earth a pprox. 9000 years ago . An incarnation of
R1m1ya9a The great epic of V1lm2ki relating the story of devotion for each other
R1ma and S2t1 as ideal husband and wife and their
vide also R1va9a
R1mi The washer-maid lover of
Ca98id1s
Rasa Lit. 'taste, flavour; character of a work; kind of sentiment; essential taste' Essential taste; devotional sentiment As essential tastes there are six
Rasa-s, viz. Madhura (sweet), Amla (sour), Lava9a, (salt) 129
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Ka7uka (pungent), Tikta Tikta (bitter) and Ka=1ya Ka=1ya (astringent). As sentiments and characters of a work V2ra (heroism), B2bhatsa B2bhatsa (disgust), Raudra Raudra (fury), there are ten Rasa-s, viz. )4ng1ra (love), V2ra H1sya (humour), Bhay1naka Bhay1naka (terror), Karu91 (compassion), Adbhuta (wonder), )1nta V1tsalya (affection). As devotional sentiments and degrees of Bhakti there are (peacefulness) and V1tsalya five Rasa-s or Bh1va-s, called also Rati-s namely )1nta (peace), D1sya (service), S1khya (friendship), V1tsalya (affection) and M1dhurya (loveliness). When these five sentiments are directed towards the Self, they take the forms of !tma Rati. vide also Tanm1tra
Ras1kar=i92 Rasa Sarv101paripuraka Cakra vide Sarv101paripuraka The attractive power of
Ras1m4ta Curan Tantra based on sulphide of mercury The receipt is given in Siddhayoga of V4nda. Product of Ayurvedic
Ras1nanda Yoga Kind of
Yoga by practicing with Bhr1mar2 Pr191y1ma
Ras1nanda Yoga Sam1dhi The Sam1dhi as a result of
Ras1nanda Yoga practice
Ras1talaloka vide Loka
Rasatattva The Tattva of
Rasa
Ras1ya9a The Indian alchemy
Rati Lit. 'sentiment; devotion; pleasure' One of the two wives of
K1madeva
Rati is the goddess expressing various degrees of Bhakti (vide Rasa). To direct these sentiments towards the Self is called !tma Rati.
Rati !sana vide Tantr1sana
Ratna Jewel, gem
R1tri Night vide also Dak=i91yana, )ivar1tri
Raudra Fury as one of the
R1va9a 130
Rasa-s
R
The great
R1k=asa
He was initially a great Bhakta of Lord attaining Self-realization.
)iva, then became a demon in R1m1ya9a epic, later on
Ravi The Sun God vide also Agni, S3rya
Recaka Lit. 'emptying' Controlled expiration of breath as one of the three states of (digestive fire) of elimination
Pr191y1ma; the name for J17har1gni
vide also Sarvaj61
Rekh1 (also Rekha Rekha) Line, stripe; delineation vide also Ana^garekh1
$g Veda Lit. 'the
of praise' Veda of
Ma98ala-s Based on the calendars used in the Veda-s and star positions, the $g Veda is thought to date to 4000 or 6000 BC when Sarasvat2 river (now dried) was the greatest river of ancient India. vide also Veda The most ancient sacred book consisting of 1028 hymns arranged in ten
Rocan1 (also Rocana) Lit. 'shinning, bright sphere'
Veda-s a name for the heaven as sphere of consciousness vide also Loka, Rodas2 In the
Rodas2 Rodas2 Veda-s heaven and earth as kind of Devat1 vide also Rocan1 In the
Roga Disease
$=i Lit. 'seer' An inspired sage in the Vedic tradition vide also Sapta4=i
$ta Lit. 'rule, order' The rule of order of things It applies equally at the grand scale of the universe, as well as at the nature and human levels. $ta has to be seen s een as the natural na tural law of orderly things that is suitable for everything. It is immutable and 131
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out of the control of humans and even of gods. All have to obey the rules of $ta, which is created at the highest level of the reality ( Sat ) as foundational design of manifestati on. It has to be followed in rituals and human behaviour, thus being the basis of Dharma. The Vedic priests ( $tvija-s) do apply $ta when performing their duties.
$tambhar1 Praj61 Pra j61 Nirvic1r1 Sam1dhi
The super-consciousness state full of cosmic experience as a culmination of vide also Nirgu9op1sana
$tu Lit. 'season' The natural sequence of seasons An observation that has a deep spiritual connotation that is conceptualised as every scale.
$ta, order of things at
$tvija A Vedic priest There are four chief priests of the Veda-s namely Hot4 , Adhvaryu, Udg1t4 and and Br1hma9a, each one having three helper priests making sixteen the number of priests necessary to perform the Mah1yaj6a with the Soma juice (Soma Rasa or Am4ta).
Rudra One of the Gods of Hindu trinity ( Trim3rti) an aspect of transformation; the Devat1 of Tejas Bh3ta
)iva; the principle and manifestation of
Lord Rudra presides over the transformation of Macrocosm ( Brahm198a) and Microcosm (Pi98198a). In Brahm198a he acts as Natar1ja, an agent of transformation at grand scale. In the Pi98198a (the human body as microcosm) there are eleven Rudra-s i.e. five J61nendriya-s, five Karmendriya-s and the mind ( Manas), all together are known as the eleven Indriya-s.
Rudragranthi Lit. 'knot of
Rudra'
Candrakha98a It represents the attachment to Mada (pride) and Siddhi-s (supernormal powers). The transcendence of this knot is equivalent to full awakening of Ku98alin2. The knot located in the
Rudr1k=a Rudr1k=a Lit. 'pervaded by
Rudra ' '
The tree Elaeocarpus Granitrus or its seed used for rosaries by followers of It is also known as
Ak=a.
Rudr192 vide Trim3rti
Rudra Pa0upati Rudra the lord of the souls covered by ignorance Devas3 vas3-s, an aspect of Rudra. One of the eight De
R3pa Form; sight 132
)iva tradition
R
There are three kinds of R3pa-s (forms) namely Sth3la (gross), S3k=ma (subtle) and K1ra9a (causal). They apply to a wide variety of threefold concepts of which Tripur1 is seen as the most comprehensive. The three forms are to be seen as levels of vibrations of energy and as such any threefold concept could be understood by the Citta only if it has the awareness of a threefold perception. R3pa means also beautiful form as one of the four K1ya Sampad-s. vide also Tanm1tra Tanm1tra, Tripur1
R3p1kar=i92 R3pa Sarv101paripuraka Cakra vide also Sarv101paripuraka The attractive power of
R3patattva The Tattva of
R3pa
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S Sabar Mantra (from Sabar i.e. i.e. milk, nectar) Mantra representing the quintessence of a sacred text
)abda Lit. 'vibration, sound; word' The vibration of sound; the thought process in the form of words
Madhyam1, Pa0yant2 Pa0yant2 and Par1 by which the There are four stages of )abda namely Vaikhar2, Madhyam1 whole universe of N1mar3pa comes into existence. Various S1dhana-s using )abda in different forms (like K2rtana, Bhajan, Mantra, N1da Yoga, etc.) have the purpose to merge the sound consciousness into the mental consciousness. The original cause of )abda is M3laprak4ti. In the Veda-s V1k Dev2 was later identified with Sarasvat2, the goddess of speech. vide also Karmendriya, Savitark1 Sam1dhi
)abda Brahman Brahman as the primal sound-energy
)abd1kar=i92 )abda vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
)abdatattva The Tattva of
)abda
Sab2ja Sam1dhi Sam1dhi with seed (B2ja) based on Pratyaya Pratyaya Towards finer and finer realms of consciousness Sab2ja Sam1dhi is of six kinds viz. Savitark1, Nirvitark1, Savic1r1, Nirvic1r1, !nanda and Asmit1. Other varieties of Sab2ja Sam1dhi are Sampraj61ta Sam1dhi, Asampraj61ta Sam1dhi.
Sam1dhii, Savikalpa Sam1dhi vide also Nirb2ja Sam1dh
)accid1nanda In Vedanta existence-consciousness-bliss as a state similar to
Nirb2ja Sam1dhi in Yoga
vide also Sat Cit !nanda
+a8a^ga Lit. 'six limbs' The science of forms The forms are seen as outer expressions of the inner reality, the means to provide a spiritual experience by understanding their transcendental correspondence. Although +a8a^ga as a word refers to the six limbs (vide +a8a^gany1sa) its expression as science of forms is very wide, addressing the symbol-values of Yantra, Ma98ala, statues, icons, temples, geometry, architecture, etc. vide also M3rti 134
S
+a8a^gany1sa Lit. ' Ny1sa Ny1sa of the six limbs' The act of installing of deities by touch and Mantra-s invocation into six parts of the body namely heart, forehead, crown of the head, anus, eyes and navel. vide also +a8a^ga
Sad10iva Lit. 'always auspicious' A form of
)iva; the Devat1 of !k10a Bh3ta
Sad10ivatattva The Tattva of Icch1 )akti (the energy of will)
+a8 Dar0ana The six classical philosophies of the Indian tradition namely S1%khya, Yoga, Ved1nta
M2m1%s1 M2m1%s1, Ny1ya, Vai0e=ika,
They are also known as Indian orthodox (i.e. accepted by Hinduism) systems of philosophy. vide also Tattva Cintana
S1dhaka Lit. 'efficient, effe ctive' Adept, spiritual aspirant practicing
S1dhana
According to Gandharva Tantra a competent S1dhaka should be Dak=a (intelligent), Jitendriya (having senses under control), Sarv1hi%s1 Vinirmukta (free from injuring all creatures), Sarvapr19ihita Rata (doing always good to all beings), !stika (believer in Veda-s), )uci )uci (pure), Brahmav1d2 (with faith in Brahman). In the Tantra-s there are three kinds of S1dhaka-s viz. Pa0u, V2ra and Divya, each one having preponderance over one of the three Gu9a-s. In Yoga-s there are two kinds of S1dhaka-s viz. Sak1ma and Ni=k1ma. vide also Tantra )1str1dhik1ra
S1dhana (also S1dhan1) Lit. 'leading straight to a goal'
Yoga, Tantra, Veda, etc. with a spiritual aim The goal of S1dhana is to enable the practitioner as manifestation of )iva )akti at Microcosmic level (i.e. K=udra K=udra Brahm198a) to experience )iva )akti at Macrocosmic level (i.e. Brahm198a)
A practice from
where the experience is unlimited. vide also Tantra S1dhana,
Veda S1dhana, Yoga S1dhana
S1dhik1 A female S1dhaka
S1dhu A holy man, saint; a saintly woman
Sad Vidy1 The knowledge of the reality ( Sat ) A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) which deals with knowledge imparted by sage Udd1laka to his son )vetaketu.
Asat as the cause of Sat, as the 135
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vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Sagarbha Sahita Pr191y1ma vide Sahita Kumbhaka
Sagu9a With quality as attribute
Sagu9a and Nirgu9a apply to a wide range of descriptions where the subjects can be with or without qualities or attributes, like Dev2 being in Her Sagu9a or Nirgu9a aspects or Brahman. The concept applies to any reality with attributes (as Sagu9a) or without attributes (as Nirgu9a).
Sagu9a Brahman The Universal Spirit possessing qualities
!nandamaya Vidy1, Dv1tri%0at Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 vide also Brahman, !nandamaya
Sagu9op1sana The contemplation of objects as an introduction to meditation
Up1sana a, vide also Up1san
Nirgu9op1sana
Sahaja Lit. 'original, natural' The stage of Self-realization vide also J61na, Sam1dhi,
Vidy1
Sahajol2 Mudr1 A variant of
Vajrol2 Mudr1 practiced by a female Yog2 (i.e. Yogin2)
S1ham Lit. 'She I am' A Mantra to identify oneself with
)akti
vide also Soham
Sahas Lit. 'power, strength'
Veda-s the power to overcome the ignorance vide also M1rga02r=a In the
Sahasr1ra Cakra (known also as Soma Cakra) The thousand-petals lotus ( Cakra), the most important level of consciousness is experienced
Cakra in the human body where the highest
The awakening of this Cakra enables one to leave the body in full consciousness as the level of awareness is Satyaloka. The "one thousand" is just symbolic of a number, practically this Cakra has unlimited extensions and all the potentialities of the consciousness as !k1ra and Nir1k1ra. vide also Jyotirli^ga, Ku98alin2, Meru,
Kail1sa
Sahita Kumbhaka Kumbhaka ' A Pr191y1ma technique in which the ratio between P3raka, Kumbhaka and Recaka is 1:4:2, therefore based mainly on Kumbhaka but supported also by P3raka and Recaka
Lit. 'supported
136
S
Known also as Sahita Pr191y1ma it is of two kinds viz. Sagarbha (with repetition of Mantra-s) and Nigarbha (without repetition of Mantra -s). Sahita Kumbhaka leads to Kevala Kumbhaka therefore the awakening of Ku98alin2 )akti.
Sahodara Lit. 'born of the same womb' A sister or brother
)aiva A follower of paramount
)iva and kind of philosophical tradition in India in which the male principle is
Sakala With parts
Sak1ma With desire
Sak1ma S1dhaka Yoga practitioner known also as Sa%s1r2 concerned mainly with the first two of the Puru=1rtha-s i.e. K1ma and Artha
Kind of
Sakara With form, manifested
S1khya Friendship; one of the nine the Rasa -s
A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga as the devotional act of friendship, also one of
S1kin2 The )akti residing in the
Vi0uddhi Cakra
)akra Courage as one of the twelve
!ditya !ditya-s
S1k=i Witness vide also Dra=7a
S1k=ibh1va Attitude of a witness The real witness ( S1k=i) is the Universal Consciousness ( Cit). By practicing S1k=ibh1v S1k=ibh1va a a S1dhaka is on the same side with the real witness. The practical manner is to reserve approx. 1% of the conscious activity of the brain to witness what the other 99% does. vide also Dra=7a, !tmadra=7a
)1kta A follower (worshipper) of )akti known also as India in which the female principle is paramount
)aktip3jaka; kind of philosophical tradition in
)akti Lit. 'power, energy' 137
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vide )iva )akti
)iva as Power-Holder ( )aktim1n) As manifestation )akti is the vibration of any frequency in the three R3pa-s possessing all aspects Energy as manifested form taken by
of life from beneficial to malefic, sensual to sublime, creative to destructive. There are three kinds of energies ( )akti-s) namely Pr19a )akti, Manas )akti and !tma )akti, i.e. pranic, mental and spiritual energies.
)akti B2ja vide Hr2%
)aktic1lan2 Mudr1 (or )aktic1lan1) The awakening of
)akti Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s
)aktik37a One group (section) of
Pa6cada02 presided over by Soma
)aktim1n )akti The Power-Holder and Power The Power-Holder is )iva )iva and the Power is )akti. There is nor )iva without )akti or )akti without )iva, they are One as the static aspect (i.e. )iva) and the moving (kinetic) aspect (i.e. )akti) of the same Reality ( Sat). vide also )iva )akti
)akti P3j1 )akti worship
)akti0odhana )akti0odhana The ritual of purification of the woman representing )akti )akti in )akti P3j1 practice.
)aktitattva Tattva of The Tattva
)akti vide also )iva )akti
)akti Up1san1 Female worship
)aktiv2ra A male partner of a woman who represents )akti pertaining the P3j1)
)akti worship ritual (i.e. )akti
)akuna )1stra vide )akuna )akuna Tantra
)akuna Tantra The doctrine (science) of omens It is known also as )akuna )akuna Upade0a ()akunopade0a) or )akuna )1stra. A part of Tantra, the )akuna Tantra deals with nature's warnings of forthcoming events. The power of correct interpretation of these warnings is called Lak=a9a Lak=a9a Siddhi. The warnings are hidden symbols of Prak4ti's messages. vide also Lak=ana, Lak=ana Siddhi 138
S
)akunopade0a vide )akuna )akuna Tantra
)alabh1sana The locust
!sana
)1lagr1ma A sacred stone worshipped by Vai=9ava Vai=9ava-s
)1lagr1ma village on the river The black stone containing a fossil ammonite is found near the )1lagr1ma Ga9dak2 in Nepal. Its name comes from the )1l )1l trees (Vatica Robusta) which grow in the area. The black ammonite falls into the river from the mountain Ga9dak2 (which according to Bh1gavata Pur19a, Vi=9u Vi=9u had transformed himself). The )1lagr1ma believed to be pervaded by the presence of Lord Vi=9u is the most sacred object of Vai=9ava-s having the same status as )ivali^ga for )aiva-s.
S1lajja Lit. 'granting modesty' The city of Brahm1 in the Brahmaloka representing the experiences of the world of various Rasa-s as sentiments The devotee has to raise above these kinds of experiences (vide attitude.
Brahm1, as
Parya^ka Vidy1) by a Dra=7a
vide also S1k=ibh1va
S1lokya Lit. 'same world' The state in which the devotee lives on the same plane with the Divine vide also !tma Rati
)am Lit. 'contentment, peace' Auspiciousness as a name of
)iva
Sam1dhi Lit. 'union with the Lord' Awareness as states of consciousness (transcending the mind eventually) in which any duality will disappear gradually and the individual Self ( J2v1tma) of a Dra=7a merges with the cosmic Self (Param1tm1)
Yoga, Sam1dhi is one of the eight A^ga-s of the A=71^ga Yoga of Pata6jali Pata6 jali. Through Sam1dhi, Nirliptat1 is obtained. There are only two categories of Sam1dhi viz. Sab2ja and Nirb2ja, other kinds such as Sampraj61ta, Asampraj61ta are only intermediate states of Sam1dhi. There are also Sam1dhi-s as a result of particular kinds of Yoga practices like Bhakti Yoga Sam1dhi, R1ja Yoga Sam1dhi, Laya Siddhi Yoga Sam1dhi, Dhy1na Yoga Sam1dhi, N1da Yoga Sam1dhi, Ras1nanda Yoga Sam1dhi as stated in Ghera98a Sa%hit1 work. The Sam1dhi concept has to be seen as the experience of awareness therefore it has limitless aspects. Samarasa vide also Sam1patti, Nira6jan1, Samarasa In
Sam1dhi Pari91ma Transformation of consciousness as one of the three
Pari91ma-s
vide also Dharma Pari91ma 139
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Sam1dhi Praj61 The higher intelligence possessing a spiritual vision It is developed as a result of successfully practicing
Sampraj61ta Sam1dhi.
Sam1na The V1yu which controls digestion into the body vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvak1mapra S Sarvak1maprad1 arvak1maprad1 d1, Devasu=i Devasu=i
S1m1nya Homa The ordinary
Homa
Sam1patti Lit. 'coming together' The state of merge in various stages of individual identity with cosmic identity known in S3tra as the merge of Grah2t4 , Graha9a, Gr1hya .
Yoga
This is a state preliminary to Sam1dhi. Both Sam1patti and Sam1dhi employ the same process, however Sam1patti deals with an impure mind, but Sam1dhi arises in a pure mind, therefore its perception is much more advanced a dvanced by the removal of covering ( !vara9a). After purification of the mind Sam1patti graduates into Sam1dhi. vide also Samarasa
Samarasa (also Samarasatva) The experience of unity in Tantric practices, a state parallel to
Sam1dhi in Yoga
vide also Maithuna
Samarpa9a The act of offering
Samastavidy1 The Sth3la (gross) worship of
Dev2
Samatva (also Samat1) Balance, equanimity
S1ma Veda The Veda of chanting, one of the four
Veda Sa%hit1-s
Samaya Traditional custom
Samaya also means the five books of Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatkum1ra, )uka and Vasi=7ha because they describe the traditional custom, therefore the traditional custom of Samaya becomes Samaya doctrine. vide also )ubh1gama Pa6caka
Samayana The state of emptiness, equanimity and mental tranquillity In this state the cognitive, cognative and volitional functions cease to exist.
)1%bhav2 Mudr1 140
S
)a%bhu Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s vide also Jyoti=mat2 Jyoti=mat2, Bhr3madhya, !j61 Cakra
The consort of
)a%bhu Lit. 'causing happiness’ A name of
)iva
Sa%dhy1 The twilight prayer
Sa%h1ra A work of dissolution vide also M3la Triko9a, S4=7i S4=7i
Sa%h1rakrama Going towards dissolution, a synonym s ynonym for
Layakrama
Sa%hit1 A collection of writings, the main ones being the four
Veda-s
S1m2pya The state in which the devotee realizes proximity with the Divine vide also !tma Rati
Sa%kalpa (also Sa^kalpa) Resolve, determination, declaration of purpose A spiritual technique when the practitioner makes a personal declaration of purpose in specific circumstances like a P3j1 or during Yoga Nidra
)a%kar1c1rya vide )a^kara
S1%khya (also S1^khya) Lit. 'number' One of the
+ad Dar0ana-s
Sa%kr1nti The passage of the sun the northwards way vise also Uttar1yana Uttar1yana
Sa%ny1sa (also Sanny1sa) Lit. 'renunciation of the world'
!0rama-s; a way of investing Karma-s There are gradual stages of Sa%ny1sa life starting with Jij61su, then Karma, Ku7icaka, Bahuda, P3rna, Ha%sa, etc., all as various degrees of spiritual life. Bhagavad G2ta says: "Sanny1sa equals investing the Karma-s", in other words investing own actions for personal and community Renunciation as one of the four
development.
Sanny1s2) Sa%ny1sin (also Sanny1sin, Sanny1s2 Lit. 'giving up' 141
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Ascetic, one who has renounced all earthly concerns vide also !0rama, Ni=k1ma Ni=k1ma S1dhaka, Sv1mi Sv1mi
Samprad1ya Tradition, belief transmitted from one teacher to another
Sampraj61ta Sam1dhi Kind of Sam1dhi in which the practitioner is still able to differentiate vide also Sam1dhi Praj61
Sa%s1ra Life of transmigration from one birth to another; the life of birth and death as the law of cyclic spiritual progress
Sa%s1r2 vide Sak1ma S1dhaka
Sa%0aya The state of doubt as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s
Sa%sk1ra Latent impression in the
Citta as subtle form of V4tti; sacramental rite in the Tantra-s
The latent impressions as potentialities are the accumulated seeds of consciousness as objective consciousness of past experiences which survive up to the state of Nirb2ja Sam1dhi. There are multiple layers of Sa%sk1ra-s. The impressions ( Sa%sk1ra-s) accompany every action ( Karma). By practicing Sa%yama on own Sa%sk1ra-s the knowledge of previous births is obtained. vide also K1ra9a )ar2ra, Karma, V1san1, Ni=k1ma Karma
Sa%sk4ta Lit. 'well done' The Aryan language, which was standardised by BCE The language is also called
P19ini the great grammarian of the 7th century
Deva Bh1=1 (i.e. the language of gods).
Sa%varga Vidy1 The knowledge of absorption
Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s. It refers to the correlation between the individual Pr19a-s and the universal V1yu in which Pr19a-s are absorbed. It is also related to the food (Anna) giving, the individual Pr19a being seen as the food that will be given (therefore absorbed) to the humankind ( Vai0v1nara Vai0v1nara) seen as the body of V1yu. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 A
Sa%vega Urge, eagerness vide also T2vrasa%vega
Sa%vid Perception
Sa%vit 142
S
Goddess Sa%vit also called Bhairav2; the Pure Consciousness synonym with
Cit
vide also Cittasa%vit
Sa%yagdar0ana The perfect vision that enables the devotee to dispel darkness and avoid
Punarjanma (rebirth)
Sa%yama The state when Dh1ra91, Dhy1na and are Sam1dhi are applied together as three consecutive stages towards J61na, a state of mental control over the applied awareness vide also Siddhi
)a9a The species of hemp Cannabis Sativa or Crotolaria Juncea vide also Mekhal1
Sanaka vide Samaya
Sanandana vide Samaya
San1tana Dharma The Eternal
Dharma
Sanatkum1ra One of Brahm1's sons vide also Janarloka, Samaya
Sa^cita Karma Past actions not yet manifested, a synonym to
Nirupakrama Karma
)198ilya Vidy1 The knowledge of
)198ilya
Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s refers to the Soul (in the heart) as Pr1j6a in the K1ra9a )ar2ra. The meditation is on the Soul expending and contracting in the centre of the heart (H4d). vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 A
Sa^ga Attachment vide also Pa6c1gni
)ani The planet Saturn one of the
Navagraha-s
Sa^kalpa (also Sa%kalpa) Lit. 'determination' Resolution, a firm affirmation taken in specific yogic technique practices; purpose, desire vide also Anu=7h1na 143
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
)a^kara The author of the celebrated Tantric text Saundaryalahari (eighth century CE) known also as )a^kar1c1rya or )a%kar1c1rya he is the founder of the ten orders ( Dasn1mi) of mendicants in India vide also N1ga
Sa^ka71sana The twister !sana
)a^kha Conch-shell used for ritual, ornaments or as instrument to produce sounds
)a^khin2 vide Padmin2
)a^khin2 N182 The connected to the left side of the body
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvonm1di92 Sarvonm1di92 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Sanny1sa vide Sa%ny1sa
Sanny1sin vide Sa%ny1sin
)1nta Peacefulness as one of the
Rasa-s
)1nti Peacefulness as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
)1ntikarma Lit. 'action of peace' One of the +a7karma-s giving protection from the evil influences of planets and curses by others, or removes diseases and dispels fears bringing peace and happiness This +a7karma will counterbalance the ill effects of the others five malefic magical rites, therefore bringing the Tantric concept of polarity into effect.
Santo=a Contentment as one of the five
Niyama-s
Santo=aprati=7h1 Santo=a is firmly established A Yog2 possessing Santo=aprati=7h1 becomes very happy.
A state in which
Saptabh3mi The seven upper worlds In the human body they correspond to the seven vide also Loka
Sapta Sapta Dh1tu 144
Cakra-s.
S
vide Dh1tu
Sapta4=i The seven seers In astronomy the seven $=i -s are the seven stars viz. Mar2ci (or Pulaha, Kratu and Vasi=7ha of the constellation Ursa Major.
Marut), Atri, A^giras, Pulastya,
vide also Brahm1
Sarasvat2 Lit. 'she who is full of inspiration'
Brahm1; name of a river (vide Pray1ga and Trive92) in the Veda-s As a personification of Praj6a, Sarasvat2 presides over arts and eloquence, wisdom and learning. vide also $g Veda Consort of Lord
Sarasvat2 N182 The N182 connected to the left shoulder
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarv1rthas1dha92 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
)ar2ra Body, frame There are there bodies as states of consciousness viz. Sth3la (gross), S3k=ma (subtle) and K1ra9a (causal). They are represented in the Tantra -s in the form of the three types of )ivali^ga-s and experienced through the five Ko0a-s as different vibrations of energy. Beyond these three bodies there is the Mah1 K1ra9a )ar2ra, their source associated with Tur2ya state.
)1r2ra Sth3la )ar2ra (gross body) J2v1tman vide also J2v1tman
The Soul in the
)ar2r1kar=i92 )ar2ra vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
Sar=7i The state in which the devotee realizes the knowledge of the Divine vide also !tma Rati
Sar3pa With form
S1r3pya The state in which the devotee realizes same form with the Divine vide also !tma Rati
Sarv1dh1rasvar3pi92 The one in the form of all supports In the human gross body corresponds to the vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of K=1raka
Cakra 145
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Sarvadu5khavimoci92 The remover of all sufferings In the human subtle body corresponds to vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
N1ga V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvadvandvak=aya^kar2 The destroyer of duality
Su=umn1 N182. vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvahl1di92 The delighter of all
V1ru92 N182. vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvai0varyaprad1 The giver of all sovereignty (authority) In the human subtle body corresponds to vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of )o=aka.
Cakra
Sarvaj61 The one who knows all In the human gross body corresponds to vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of Recaka .
Cakra
Sarvaj61namay2 The one full of all knowledge In the human gross body corresponds to vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of D1haka.
Cakra
Sarvaj4mbhi92 The releaser of all
Payasvin2 N182 . vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvak1maprad1 The giver of all desires (wants) In the human subtle body corresponds to vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Sam1na V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvakar=i92 The one who attracts all
Vi0vodar1 N182. Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvama^gal1 146
S
Nity1 )akti-s The B2ja Mantra is Sva%.
One of the
Sarvama^gal1k1ri92 The one bringing all auspicious things In the human subtle body corresponds to vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Ud1na V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvamantramay2 Consisting of all
Mantra-s
Pi^gal1 N182. vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvam4tyupra0ama92 The one bringing to a state of peace the indication of death In the human subtle body corresponds to vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
K3rma V1yu.
Cakra
Sarv1nandamaya Cakra Lit. 'the wheel consisting entirely of bliss '
)r2 Yantra presiding by Mah1tripur1sundar2 Mah1tripur1sundar2 )akti (Lalit1 Lalit1) It is also known as Binduma98ala Cakra. Here is where Dev2 Lalit1 as supreme K1me0var2 is united with Her Lord Kame0vara in the state of supreme union of Sat Cit !nanda in U882y1na P27ha. It is represented as three Bindu-s (points), the one above representing the face, the two below representing the breasts. breasts . Meditation on this Cakra brings the identity of the S1dhaka with Lalit1. vide also Par1bindu, Bindu The Red Central Wheel of the
Sarv1nandamay2 The one full of all bliss In the human gross body corresponds to the vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of K=obhaka.
Cakra
Sarv1^gasundar2 The one beautiful in all limbs In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarv1rthas1dha ka vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Devadatta V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvap1pahar1 The dispeller of all evil In the human gross body corresponds to the vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of Udg1raka.
Cakra
Sarvapriya%kar2 The doer of what is liked by all In the human subtle body corresponds to
Vy1na V1yu. 147
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vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra
Sarvapsitaphalaprad1 The giver of the fruit of all wants In the human gross body corresponds to the vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of Mohaka.
Cakra
Sarvarak=1kara Cakra Lit. 'the wheel protecting all'
)r2 Yantra presided by Tripuram1lin2 )akti The )akti-s to be worshipped in this Cakra are the deities of protection namely Sarvaj61, Sarva0aktiprad1, Sarvai0varyaprad1, Sarvaj61namay2, Sarvavy1dhivin10in2, Sarv1dh1rasvar3pi92, Sarvap1pahar1, Sarv1nandamay2, Sarvarak=1svar3pi92, Sarvapsitaphalaprad1. In the human subtle body they are manifestations of Sam1na V1yu within the Manip3ra Cakra as Vahnikal1 (vital fire). The ten functions of Vahnikal1 manifest as ten J17har1gni-s in the gross body (vide J17har1gni). The ten Blue Triangles Wheel of the
Sarvarak=1svar3pi92 The one in the form of all protections In the human gross body corresponds to the vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of J4mbhaka.
Cakra
Sarvara6ja92 The one pleasing (charming) to all
P3=1 N182. vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvarogahara Cakra Lit. 'the wheel removing all sic kness'
)r2 Yantra presided by Tripurasiddh1 Tripurasiddh1 )akti The )akti-s to be worshipped in this Cakra are the deities of mental expressions ( V1gdev2-s) namely Va0in2, K1me02, Modin2, Vimal1, Aru91, Jayin2 , Sarve02 Sarve02 (or Sarve0var2) and Kaulin2. In the human mind they manifest as Devat1-s of two sets of polarities i.e. )2ta (calm) and U=9a (ardent), Sukha (delighted) and Du5kha (distressed), Icch1 (wish) and the three Gu9a-s namely Sattva (equilibrium), Rajas (activity), Tamas (inertia). At this stage the S1dhaka is able to achieve Sarvarogahara, the curing of all ills by overcoming the opposites ( Dvandva-s), the individual self as will ( Icch1) and the qualities ( Gu9a-s), the essence of the Self being beyond all. The eight Red Triangles Wheel of the
Sarv1rtha Sar v1rtha Lit. 'all accomplishments'
Citta) becomes pure Thus it allows the combined experience of Dra=7a and D40ya (i.e. the subject and the object of awareness) which Citta is able to reflect. vide also V1san1 A yogic state when the mind (as
Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dhaka Cakra Lit. 'the wheel creating all prosperi ty' The Ten Red Triangles Wheel of the 148
)r2 Yantra presided by Tripura0r2 )akti
S
)akti-s to be worshipped in this Cakra are the deities of accomplishments namely Sarvasiddhiprad1, Sarvasampatprad1, Sarvapriya%kar2 Sarvama^gal1kari92, Sarvapriya%kar2, Sarvak1maprad1, Sarvadu5khavimoci92, Sarvam4tyupra0ama92, Sarvavighaniv1ri92, Sarv1^gasundar2, Sarvasaubh1gyad1yi92. In the subtle body they correspond to the ten V1yus viz. Pr19a, Ap1na, Vy1na, Ud1na, Sam1na, N1ga, K3rma, K4kara K4kar a, Devadatta, Dhana6jay1. vide also V1yu The
Sarv1rths1dha92 The one who accomplishes all material gains
Sarasvat2 N182. vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarva0aktiprad1 The giver of all powers In the human gross body corresponds to the vide also Sarvarak=1kara
J17har1gni of Pacaka.
Cakra
Sarv10a%k=obha9a Cakra Lit. 'the wheel agitating all' The Eight-petals Red Lotus Wheel of the
)r2 Yantra presided by Tripur1sundar2 Tripur1sundar Tripur1sundar22 )akti
)akti-s to be worshipped on the petals are the deities who agitate the mind viz. Ana^gakusum1, Ana^gamekhal1, Ana^gamadan1, Ana^gamadan1tur1, Ana^garekh1, Ana^gavegan2, Ana^gamadan1^ku01 and Ana^gam1lin2. They correspond to the human expressions and attitudes of Vacana, Upek=a , !nanda, Gamana, H1na H1na, Visarga, !d1na and Up1d1na. The
Sarvasa%k=obhi92 The agitator of all
Ala%bus1 N182. Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvasa%mohi92 The one who can del ude all (everything)
Hastijihv1 N182. Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvasampatprad1 The giver of all material gains In the human subtle body corresponds to vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Ap1na V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvasampattip3ra92 The one who can fulfil and satisfy all
I81 N182. Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarv101paripuraka Cakra 149
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Lit. 'the wheel fulfilling all de sires'
)r2 Yantra presided by Tripure0i (+oda02) )akti )akti The )akti-s to be worshipped on the petals are the deities of attraction viz. K1m1kar=i92 Buddhy1kar=i92, Aha%k1r1kar=i92, )abd1kar=i92, Spar01kar=i92, R3p1kar=i92, Ras1kar=i92, Gandh1kar=i92, Cittakar=i92, Dhairy1kar=i92, Sm4ty1kar=i92, N1m1kar=i92, B2j1kar=i92, !tm1kar=i92, Am4t1kar=i92 Am4t1kar=i92 and )arir1kar=i92. These attractive powers as manifestations of M1y1 , veil the consciousness. In the human body they are experienced through the five Bh3ta-s, the five J61nendriya-s, the five Karmendriya-s and Manas. The Sixteen-petals Blue Lotus Wheel of the
Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Cakra Lit. 'the wheel granting every happiness'
)r2 Yantra presided by Tipurav1sin2 )akti The )akti-s to be worshipped in this Cakra are the deities granting all that is auspicious viz. Sarvasa%k=obhi92, Sarvavidr1vi92, Sarvakar=i92, Sarvahl1di92, Sarvasa%mohin2, Sarvastambhi92, Sarvaj4mbhi92, Sarvava0a^kar2, Sarvara6ja92, Sarvonm1di92, Sarv1rthas1dha92, Sarvasampattip3ra92, Sarvamantramay2, Sarvadvandvak=aya^kar2 Sarvadvandvak=aya^kar2. They correspond with the fourteen main N182-s in the human body ( S3k=ma )ar2ra) namely Ala%bus1, Kuh3, Vi0vodar1, V1ru92, Hastijihv1, Yo0ovat2, Payasvin2, G1ndh1r2, P3=1, )a^khin2, Sarasvat2, I81, Pi^gal1, Su=umn1. The Fourteen Blue Triangles Wheel of the
Sarvasaubh1gyad1yi92 The giver of all good fortunes In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarv1rthas1dha ka vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Dhana6jay1 Dhana6jay1 V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvasiddhiprad1 The giver of all that is perfect In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarv1rthas1dha ka vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Pr19a V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvasiddhiprada Cakra Lit. 'the wheel granting all miraculous powers'
)r2 Yantra presided by Tripur1mb1 )akti It is also known as Triko9a Cakra, Yonima98ala Cakra, M3la Triko9a Cakra. At the corners of the triangle are the )akti-s to be worshipped in this Cakra, the !vara9a Devat1-s namely K1me0var2, Vajre0var2 and Bhagam1lin2 presiding over the three principles of existence ( Avyakta, Aha%k1ra and Mahat). The corners of the triangles are the three P27ha-s namely K1mar3pa, P3r9agiri and J1landhara as symbols of creation. Outside the triangle there are the three !yudha Devat1-s presiding over the weapons of Dev2 Lalit1. vide also Catu=p27ha The White Central Triangle Wheel of the
Sarvastambhi92 The one who can arrests (restrain) all
Ya0ovat2 N182. Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvava0a^kar2 Sarvava0a^kar2 The controller of all 150
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G1ndh1r2 N182. vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvavidr1vi92 The chaser of all
Kuh3 N182. vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
Sarvavighaniv1ri92 Sarvavighaniv1ri92 The one overcoming all obstacles In the human subtle body corresponds to vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
K4kara V1yu.
Cakra
Sarvavy1dhivin10in2 The destroyer of all diseases In the human gross body corresponds to the
J17har1gni of Pl1vaka.
vide also Sarvarak=1kara Sarvarak=1kara Cakra
Sarve02 The active one
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental quality of Rajas vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra One of the
Sarve0var2 vide Sarvarogahara Cakra
Sarvonm1di92 The intoxicator of all
)a^khin2 )a^khin2 N182. Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
In the human subtle body corresponds to
S1=71^ga Pra91ma Prostration of the six limbs
)1stra Scripture vide also Tantra
Sat Being; existence; reality
Veda-s say: The Reality is one, the wise speak of It in different ways ( Ekem Sat Vipr1 Bahudh1 V Vadanti adanti) )iva )akti, Svar3pa Svar3pa vide Sat Cit !nanda, )iva The
+a7 Cakra Bheda Piercing the six
Cakra-s as a process towards attaining spiritual liberation ( Nirvana)
Sat Cit !nanda 151
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The triad Existence-Consciousness-Bliss, a state reached through experience of united attributes of !tman
Dharmamegha Sam1dhi as the
It is a parallel concept with the Indra Agni Soma from the Veda-s (vide Indra Agni S3rya) therefore the Dharmamegha Sam1dhi becomes the J61na, in Vedic terms is a expression.
Soma S3rya
vide Saccid1nanda, Tad1k1r1patti Tad1k1r1patti
Sat2 )iva vide Dev2 , P27ha
A spouse of
+a7karma Lit. 'six actions'
Tantra-s; the six yogic processes of purification The +a7karma-s as magical rites are )1ntikarma, Stambha9akarma, Va0ikara9akarma, Vidve=a9akarma, Ucc17anakarma Ucc17anakarmaand M1ra9akarma. They are associated with specific deities, B2ja Mantra-s, gross elements, colours or compass directions. The S1dhan1 of the five malefic The six magical rites in the
magical rites is considered to be a lower form of spirituality and such practices are not a vehicle of enlightenment. As yogic processes of purification, the +a7karma-s are Dhauti, Kap1labh1ti. Their practice results in acquiring )odhana. vide also Nigrahahoma,
Basti, Neti, Nauli, Tr17aka and
Yogam1y1 S1dhana
Satk1ryav1da In S1%khya the concept that every
K1rya potentially exists in its K1ra9a
Satsa^ga A gathering to discuss spiritual themes
Sattva Lit. 'reality; true es sence' The quality of purity, equilibrium and rhythm
Gu9a-s vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra, Sarve02
It is one of the three
Sattvasa%0uddhi Sattvasa%0uddhi Purity of the heart as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Sattva Tapas The purification of
Sattva Gu9a
vide also Tapas
Sattya% )iva% Sundara% Truth Bliss Beauty
Satya Lit. 'true; pure' The quality of being true as one of the five 152
Yama-s and one of the twenty-six Daiv2sampat-s
S
vide also Bh3ma Vidy1
Satyak1ma Vidy1 The knowledge of
Satyak1ma
A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) describes the knowledge of Satyak1ma J1b1la about the four P1da-s (namely Pr1na, Ak=i, )rava9a and Manas) leading to the knowledge of
Sagu9a Brahman. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Satyaloka The highest of the fourteen worlds known also as
Brahmaloka
Brahm1, the heaven of truth and the accomplishment of Viveka vide Loka, Sahasr1ra Cakra
It is the abode of
Satyaprati=7h1 Satya is firmly established A Yog2 possessing Satyaprati=7h1 will have the power to accomplish actions by words or
A state in which thoughts.
Satya Yuga An age of the world consisting of 1,728,000 years vide Yuga
Saubh1gya Good fortune, success
)auca Physical and mental purity as one of the five
Niyama-s and one of the twenty-six Daiv2sampat-s
Purity is an essential condition before awakening of energies that will amplify the qualities of various planes either positive or negative in colour.
)aucaprati=7h1 vide also )aucaprati=7h1
)aucaprati=7h1 )auca is firmly established A Yog2 possessing )aucaprati=7h1 develops detachment towards one's one's own body and nonnon-
A state in which
attachment to others.
Saumya Homa Homa for the benefit of a certain person
Saundaryalahar2 vide )a^kara )a^kara
)ava Corpse
Savic1r1 Sam1dhi Lit. ' Sam1dhi Sam1dhi with Vic1ra ' ' A stage of
Sam1dhi in which the consciousness is experienced as reflection of the form as state of
Vic1ra 153
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vide also Savikalp1 Sam1dhi From Savic1r1 Sam1dhi onwards the
Dra=7a is able to experience Pratyabhij61.
Savikalp1 Sam1dhi Lit. ' Sam1dhi Sam1dhi with Vikalpa ' ' A Sab2ja form of Sam1dhi in which there is still duality between J61t1 (the One who knows) and J6eya (object of knowledge) becoming one only in Nirvikalp1 Sam1dhi
Savikalp1 Sam1dhi is of four kinds namely Savitark1, Savic1r1, !nanda and Asmit1 as experiences with a form of Vikalpa.
Savitark1 Sam1dhi Sam1dhi with Vitarka ' ' Lit. ' Sam1dhi The first stage of Sam1dhi, a state when consciousness alternates between )abda (as word), Artha (as object of senses) and J61na (as meaning), as expression of Vitarka state vide also Savikalp1 Sam1dhi
Savit4 Savit4 S3rya, the Sun God; power as one of the twelve !ditya-s vide also G1yatr2, Savit4 Satyaprasava
Savit4 Satyaprasava of continuous virtue or truth Savit4 of One of the eight Devas3 -s, an aspect of Savit4 Savit4
S1vitr2 vide G1yatr2
S1yujya The state in which the devotee realizes identity with the Divine vide also !tma Rati
)e=a vide Ananta
)e=an1ga vide Ananta
Setu Bridge
Sev1 Personal service to
Guru
Sevaka Servant; a person engaged in service to God
Siddha Perfect being; saint; one possessing
Siddh1nt1c1ra 154
Siddhi-s; a Yog2 established in Dharmamegha Sam1dhi
S
The final aim doctrine of
Tantra
A Tantric path based on meditation performed in an isolated environment.
Siddhap27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of the person attained Siddhi-s The Catu=p27ha-s (the four
Dev2 denoting perfection; a place where a high spiritual
P27ha-s) are considered to be Siddhap27ha-s as well.
Siddh1rtha Lit. 'one who has fulfilled the goal' A name of
Buddha Gautama
Siddh1sana The perfect
!sana
Siddhaugha Lit. 'the perfect teac hers' Three aspects of )iva as part of Navan1thaNavan1tha-s represented in the human body by the two eyes (Netra) and the genital organ ( Upastha) The Siddhaugha-s are )r2 J61n1nanda, )r2 Saty1nanda and )r2 P3r91nanda.
Siddhi
Yoga; power of intellect There are eight major Siddhi (vide A=7asiddhi) and many minor Siddhi-s viz. Vedha, Nidhi, A6jana, P1duk1 P1duk1, Bila Bila, Kha8ga Kha8ga, !kar=a9a !kar=a9a, Va0ya Va0ya, etc. Their acquisition requires Am4t1p3r9a Am4t1p3r9a (purity of mind). Siddhi-s are gifts of Ku98alin2 and it is the consciousness itself through A6janat1 which identifies with the object, quality or manifestation by using a specific state known as Sa%yama. Utkr1nti, Vibh3ti vide also Utkr1nti Power resulting from
)ilpi Yog2 A Yog2 artist using art for spiritual growth towards
Yoga
Si%h1sana The lion
!sana; the lion's throne
)irovrata Lit. 'fire devotion' The rite of carrying fire on the head as symbol of opening the head to higher consciousness This is also a kind of
)aiva initiation (according to S3ta Sa%hit1).
vide also Vrata
)i=ya (from the Sanskrit root
)1s i.e. to teach)
Lit. 'one who is to be taught' Disciple of spiritual teaching vide also Guru 155
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)2ta Lit. 'cold; cool' The mental activity of being calm, unmoved vide also Sa Sarvarogahara rvarogahara rvarogaha rvarogaharraa Cakra, Va0in2
)2t1 The wife of
R1ma (vide)
)2tal2 Lit. 'causing coolness' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Pr191y1ma
)2tk1r2 Lit. 'causing the sound
)2t ' '
In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Pr191y1ma
)2tkrama Yogic technique of taking water through the mouth and expelling it through the nostrils as one of the three Kap1labhati-s
)iva Lit. 'in whom all things lie; auspicious' Lord )iva one of the Hindu trinity as
Rudra, the destroyer
His various names indicate particular states, qualities and manifestations of the Self in its descent towards the many. Many of His names are given in the Pura9a-s like Agni, Padma Padma, K3rma K3rma, )iva )iva, V1mana, etc., as well as in )iva Sahasran1ma (one thousand names of )iva). His abode is D1mara, )iva )iva Mount Kail1sa Kail1sa (vide). Lord )iva promulgates His teachings in works as Y1mala, D1mara S3tra and Tantra-s. He is the first devotee of )r2 Vidy1 and the original Guru (!din1tha). As Rudra, )iva brings about the destruction of the ego ( Aha%k1ra) and transformation. In His representations )iva's third eye is a symbol of spiritual wisdom, the tiger skin represents the slain of the tiger of lust, the snakes are symbol of vital energy.
)iva )akti, vide also Brahman, Parama0iva, )iva
Trim3rti
)ivad3t2 )iva-s messenger; one of the many names of Dev2 vide also D3t2
)ivali^ga Lit. ' mark of
)iva ' '
An oval-shaped form representing the pure consciousness of (Cid1k10a); a symbol of )iva or )iva )akti principle
)iva; the cosmic universal mind
)ivali^ga-s can be of three kinds according to their R3pa-s viz. Dh3mrali^ga, Itarali^ga and Jyotirli^ga. At one end of the form is time ( K1la) representing )iva, at the other end is space (!k10a) representing )akti, in the centre is Bindu, the place of union. vise also Brahm198a
)ivar1tri )ivar1tri Lit. ' )iva 's night' )iva 's 156
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A festival in honour of
)iva. Esoterically )ivar1tri is the day when J2va realizes own true nature.
)iva )akti )iva and )akti vide also Tantra, K=udra K=udra Brahm198a, )aktim1n )aktim1n )akti )iva )akti is Brahman. From Tantric point of view )iva is time (K1la) and pure consciousness, )akti is space (!k10a) and the kinetic energy of the pure consciousness, i.e. the Absolute as activity. )ivatattva and )aktitattva are really one as static and kinetic aspects of the same Reality (Sat ). This principle pervades the whole universe as dual form of polarity (vide )ivali^ga for symbol). In the human body ( Pi98198a), )akti takes the main form as Dev2 Ku98alin2 in M3l1dh1ra Cakra and )iva as Jyotirli^ga in )ahasr1ra Cakra. vide also Tantra, K=udra Brahma98a, )aktim1n )akti
Dual principal of
)ivatattva The Tattva of Pure Consciousness ( Cit ) vide also )iva )akti
)ivayog2 A Yog2 follower of
)iva
)ivayuvat2 Lit. ' )iva 's young woman' )iva 's The five downwards-pointed triangles representing the
)akti in the )r2 Yantra
vide also )r2ka97ha
Skanda Lit. 'the jumping one' A name for
K1rttikeya, the God of war, a son of Lord )iva
)loka Verse of a sacred text
Smara Lit. 'loving recollection; love' One of the names of experience
K1madeva (the God of love) as one who keeps the memory of a love
Smarana One of the nine
A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga as devotional act of remembering the Divine
)ma01na Cremation ground, crematorium, a place to bury; an oblation to deceased ancestors; a place of performing certain Tantric practices
Smaya Pride vide also Pa6c1gni
Sm4ti Memory as one of the five
Cittav4tti-s 157
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Sm4ty1kar=i92 Sm4ti vide also Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
+o8a02 Mah1vidy1-s represents the power of perfection. +o8a02 is also the sixteen-syllables Mantra which has to be learned from a Guru or might be
The third of the
revealed to a devotee in various ways.
)odhana Purification of the body as a result of practicing
+a7karma-s as yogic processes of purification
Soham Lit. 'he I am' A Mantra to identify oneself with
)iva; the reverse of Ha%sa5 It is also known as Ajap1 G1yatr2. vide also S1ham, Ajap1 Japa
Soma Lit. 'juice' The Soma plant and its juice; the drink of gods Personified as an important Vedic deity Soma is identified with the moon and any form of Am4ta. Esoterically Soma is the state of happiness and divine intoxication, the !nanda of Sat Cit !nanda, the three attributes of !tman. vide also Indra, Agni,
Soma, S3rya
Soma Cakra vide Sahasr1ra Sahasr1ra Cakra
Soma Rasa The juice of the
Soma plant known also as Am4ta
Somasavana Lit. 'that which exudes nectar' vide Parya^ka Vidy1
Soma Vanaspati Soma the lord of loveliness; the essence of happiness One of the eight Devas3 -s, an aspect of Soma.
Sopakrama Karma Karma with fruits in the present vide also Apar1taj61na, Pr1rabdha Karma The active
)o=aka The J17har1gni (digestive fire) of removing the humours ( Do=a-s) vide also Sarvai0varyaprad1 158
S
Spar0a Touch vide Tanm1tra
Spar01kar=i92 Spar0a vide Sarv101paripuraka Sarv101paripuraka Cakra The attractive power of
Spar0a Sa%vit Divine touch as a supernormal power ( Siddhi)
Spar0atattva The Tattva of
Spar0a
Spho7a The subtle sound or vibration out of which the world was created
)raddh1 Lit. 'that which holds the truth' Faith; the quality of being faithful vide also Bh3ma Vidy1
)r1va9a ( also )rava9a) The month corresponding to parts of July/ August (vide also M1sa); the sense of supernormal hearing; one of the nine A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga as the devotional act of listening to Holy Scriptures vide also Pr1tibha
)r2 Holy
)r2 Cakra Lit. 'holy wheel'
)r2 Yantra vide )r2
)r2ka97ha Lit. 'holy desire' The four upwards-pointed triangles representing the
)iva element in the )r2 Cakra.
vide also )ivayuvat2
)r2% Lak=m2 B2ja Mantra
)r2man Ny1sa Vidy1 The knowledge of consecration to God A VedaVidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s refers to the path of leading to the knowledge of Sagu9a Brahman.
Sa%ny1sa (renunciation) as
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1 159
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)r2m1t1 The Holy Mother as one of the sacred names of
Dev2
)r2 Pura vide )r2 Yantra
)r2 Vidy1 Holy Science vide )r2
Yantra
)r2 Vidy1 Mantra vide Pa6cada02
)r2 Yantra The most celebrated of all Yantra-s it is the graphical representation of S4=7ikrama and its reverse the Layakrama. Its manifestation is the development and the absorption of the outer universe (Brahm198a) as well as the inner universe ( Pi98198a) on nine levels. The graphical representation is subject to meditation of various forms, the object of the )r2 Yantra is to realize the unity of J61t1 (who is Hotra), of J61na (which is Arghya) and of J6eya (which is Havi). The deity worshipped at the centre ( Bindu) of the )r2 Yantra is Lalit1. It is also known as )r2 Cakra , )r2 Pura, Navayoni Cakra, )r2 Vidy1, etc. The nine levels of Cakra-s towards the centre are Trailokyamohana, Sarv101paripuraka, Sarva0a%k=obha9a, Sarvsaubh1gyad1yaka, Sarv1rthas1dhaka, Sarvarak=1kara Sarvrogahara, Sarvasiddhiprada and Sarvarak=1kara, Sarv1nandamaya.
)49g1ra Lit. 'love; the erotic s entiment' Love as one of the
Rasa-s (vide)
)rotra Organ of hearing, the ear vide also J61nendriya
)rotratattva The Tattva Tattva of )rotra
S4=7i A work of creation vide also M3la Triko9a,
Tantra, Sa%h1ra
S4=7i applies also to the creation of the physical universe ( Brahm198a) as opposed to Pralaya (dissolution)
S4=7ikrama Going towards creation The action opposed to Trailokyamohana.
Layakrama . In the )r2 Yantra the direction from Bindu to
S4=7i Sthiti Sa%h1ra Creation-preservation-dissolution as manifestation of
)ruti 160
Trim3rti of )akti expression
S
Knowledge received by revelation from the Divine
Veda-s are considered to be )ruti-s
Stambha9akarma Lit. 'action of stopping or arresting' One of the +a7karma-s, which gives the power of preventing or arresting somebody's bodily or mental actions It is one of the five malefic magical rites in the
Tantra-s
Stana The female breast
Stanap27ha Stanap27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of the
Dev2 in the Stana form
vide also P27ha
Stava Hymn
Sthairya Steadiness, firmness, being motionless (same as
Sthirat1)
Sthirat1 Steadiness as a result of practicing
Mudr1-s
vide also Sthairya
Sthitapraj6a Lit. 'firm in wisdom' A spiritual stage synonym to that of a
Jivanmukta, or a person who is established in it
Sthiti A work of preservation vide also M3la Triko9a
Sth3la Gross, physical vide also R3pa
Sth3ladhy1na The gross form of meditation
Sth3la Karma Gross action produced by thoughts (vide
Karma)
vide also S3k=ma Karma
Sth3l1k10a The space pervading the physical (gross) body
Sth3la Karma Gross action caused by the
S3k=ma Karma 161
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Sth3la Mah1bh3ta vide Bh3ta
Sth3la R3pa Gross form vide also R3pa
Sth3la )ar2ra The gross (physical) body
Stotra Prayer; hymn of spiritual nature
Str2 Woman, female
Str2mantra A female Mantra (i.e. a Mantra ending with
Sv1h1)
Sty1na The state of dullness as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s
)ubh1gama Pa6caka The five authoritative scriptures of )uka and Vasi=7ha
Samaya doctrine i.e. Sanaka, Sananda, Sanatkum1ra,
Subrahma9ya Lit. 'the one dear to In the
Br1hma9a ' '
priest Veda-s a helper priest assisting the Udg1t4 priest
Sudar0ana Cakra Vi=9u’s discus, as sun’s symbol, and invincible weapon
)uddha B Bhakti hakti The purity of
Bhakti as a necessary condition to develop a relationship with God
)uddh10uddhatattva The pure-impure Tattva)
Tattva-s i.e. the seven Tattva-s from Mah1tattva down to Puru=atattva (vide
)uddhatattva The pure Tattva)
Tattva-s i.e. the five Tattva Tattva-s from )ivatattva down to )uddhavidy1tattva (vide
)uddhavidy1tattva The Tattva of
Kriy1 )akti (the energy of action)
)uddhi Purification; element of purification as opposed to vide also Citta0uddhi, Pari0uddhi
Sudh1 162
A0uddhi
S
Spiritual nectar as the beverage of the Gods
)3dra One of the
Var9a-s in the Vedic tradition consisting of servants
)uka vide Samaya
Sukha Lit. 'pleasant, joyful, happy' The mental activity of being delighted vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara
Cakra, Modin2
)ukla Karma The good
Karma as one of the three accumulated Karma-s
)ukra Semen virile vide Dh1tu
)ukra is also the name for the planet Venus (vide Navagraha) as well as the name for the guru of demonic beings.
S3k=ma Subtle
S3k=madhy1na The subtle form of meditation
S3k=ma Karma Subtle action cause d by thoughts (vide
Karma)
vide also Sth3la Karma
S3k=ma R3pa Subtle form vide also R3pa
S3k=ma )ar2ra The subtle body known also as
Li^ga )ar2ra
vide )ar2ra
S3k=modaya The awakening of the subtle plane, a state in which the consciousness is active in the condition
Svapna
S3kta Lit. 'well said' Vedic hymn
)3nya Void 163
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)3nya Mudr1 The gesture of the void
)3nyaka Emptiness
)3ny1ta Void
Supta Sleeping
Surabhi Mudr1 The gesture of charming
S3rya Devat1 of Pi^gal1 N182; the right nostril One of the gods of the Vedic trinity, S3rya presides over the sky, while Agni is on the earth and Indra in the atmosphere. S3rya is also one of the Navagraha -s and the source of energy within all The sun or its deity; the
creatures on earth. Esoterically is the psycho-cosmic principle of light and the experience and knowledge of consciousness, the immanent Godhead. vide also Savit4 ,
!ditya, Ravi, Veda, Agni S3rya Indra
S3rya Bheda Lit. 'causing sun expansion' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Pr191y1ma
S3ryadv1ra S3ryadv1ra The passage of the sun
S3ry1k10a Vyoma Pa6caka-s described as the space of the sun
The fifth of the
S3ryakha98a Ma9ip3ra and An1hata Cakra-s and Vi=9ugranthi The presiding deity is S3rya, the Gu9a is Rajas and corresponds in the cosmic planes to Maharloka and Janarloka. Group containing
S3ryama98ala Sun's disc
S3rya N182 Pi^gal1 N182
A synonym for
)u=ka Basti The dry
Basti as one of the two Basti-s
Su=umnadv1ra The passage of
Su=umn1
Su=umn1 N182 164
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The N182 connected to the back of the forehead running along the vertebral column, the passage for Ku98alin2 )akti It is the most important Madhya M1rga, etc.
N182 in the human subtle body. It is also known as )3nya Padav2,
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvadvandvak=aya^kar2 , vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Agni, Nira6jan1
Su=upti Su=upti The Avasth1 of deep sleep associate with a specific
V4tti (vide Su=upti V4tti) In this state the J2va consciousness is in the causal body ( K1ra9a )ar2ra) and the perception of consciousness is undifferentiated therefore beyond the experiences of J2grat and Svapna states. This is the state of bliss ( !nanda) leading to the fourth state called Tur2ya.
Su=upti V4tti The condition of the deep sleep state associated in the mind with the Delta brain waves vide also Avasth1,
V4tti
Sutalaloka vide Loka
S3tra Lit. 'thread' Aphorism, short sentence or a book of aphorisms (i.e. the author's thoughts hang as beads on a thread)
Suv2ta (also Suvita) In the
Veda-s the path of prosperity; a happy journey
Svadh1 Lit. 'self-nature' A Vedic Mantra as expression of the Self vide also Dhenu
Svadharma One's own
Dharma
Sv1dhi=7h1na Cakra Lit. 'own residence
Cakra ' '
The Cakra located at the base of the vertebral column where the coccyx bone is situated
Cakra is associated with the J61nendriya of Jihva, the Karmendriya of Upastha Upastha, the Tanm1tra of Rasa, it is the centre for Vy1na V1yu and the seat of Pr19amaya Ko0a, the level of awareness is Bhuvarloka. vide also R1ki92 This
Sv1dhy1ya Lit. 'own study' Study of )1stra-s as one of the five analysis of one's own self; recitation of
Niyama-s and one of the twenty-six Daiv2sampat-s; the Mantra-s
vide also Up1sana 165
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Sv1dhy1yaprati=7h1 Sv1dhy1ya is practiced and the observation of one's own self experienced A Yog2 possessing Sv1dhy1yaprati=7h1 will be able to experience the union with a desired Devat1.
A state in which
Sv1h1 Lit. 'self-affirmation'
Mantra for a goddess vide also Str2mantra, Dhenu
The final word of a
Sv1mi (also Sv1min) Lit. 'master of one's self'
Sanny1sin as result of a specific initiation ( D2k=1)
A particular kind of
Svapna Lit. 'dreaming' The Avasth1 of dreaming associated with a specific
V4tti (vide Svapna V4tti) In this state the J2va consciousness is in the subtle body ( S3k=ma )ar2ra) and the perception is mental only.
Svapna J61na The state of conscious dreaming
Svapna V V4tti 4tti The condition of the dreaming state associated in the mind with the Theta brain waves vide also Avasth1,
V4tti
Svara Sound; air breathed through the nostrils; tone in recitation; a note of the musical scale vide also O%
Svara S1dhana Kind of S1dhana (practice) using the seven notes of the musical scale, each note being related to one of the seven major Cakra-s vide also N1da Yoga
Svara Yoga The Yoga of breathing cycle
Svarga Leading to heaven
Svarloka The region between the sun and polar star as
Indra Indr a's heaven
Svar3pa Lit. 'own form' Essential nature of a deity; the form of Reality ( Sat ) 166
S
)v1sa Pra0v1sa Lit. 'inspiration-expiration' The activity of agitated breath As one of the four
Vik=epasahabh3-s it is connected to the Annamaya Ko0a.
Svasti Happiness; kind of salutation (like "Hail!")
Svastika A kind of cross as symbol of being auspicious and bringing good luck It is considered to be a simplified symbol of the sun. As a Mudr1, it is performed by crossing arms and hands on chest. For example the folded hands of P1rvat2 (vide).
Svastik1sana The auspicious
!sana
Svayambh3 Li^ga (from Svayambh3 i.e. self-created) vide Dh3mra Li^ga
)vetabindu Bindu) )vetabindu is one of the three Par1bindu-s representing the )iva M1y1 as well as the J61na )akti as manifestations. The point of pure thought (vide
)vetaketu vide Sad Vidy1
Sy1dv1da The doctrine of probability
)y1ma Lit. 'of dark or dark-blue complexion' A name of
)iva; the sacred fig-tree at Pray1ga
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T T181g2 Mudr1 The tank
Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s
Tad1k1r1patti Lit. 'accomplishment of own form' The supreme awareness, the highest state of awareness
Sam1dhi, the experience of Sat Cit !nanda or pure
Tadupar1ga The reflection of the object in the mind as a cognitive process vide also Citta
Tal1talaloka Tal1talaloka vide Loka
Tamas Lit. 'darkness, inertia' The quality of ignorance, inertia and stagnation
Gu9a-s. vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra, Kaulin2 Kaulin2
It is one of the three
Tamas Tapas The purification of
Tamas Gu9a
vide also Tapas
T1mb3la Betel (scientifically known as Piper Betel), an article used in ritual offering
Tamogu9a The quality of ignorance vide also Tamas, Gu9a Gu9a
Tanm1tra Lit. 'element of extension' extensi on' Subtle element (essence, quality) of the human body; subtle form of matter; senses Known also as S3k=ma Mah1 Bh3ta-s, there are five Tanm1tra-s namely )abda (sound), Spar0a (touch), R3pa (form, sight), Rasa (taste, flavour), Gandha (smell, odour), produced from the Tamas Gu9a of Prak4ti and are parts of the thirty-six TattvaTattva-s. Tanm1tra-s are considered to have a subatomic structure and be the constituents of atoms ( A9u-s).
A9u vide also B1na, A9u
Tanm1tra Sam1dhi Awareness of the senses as a lower stage of 168
Sam1dhi
T
Tantra Lit. 'liberation through extension' (Tan means to extend, stretch, spread; Tra means threefold and stands for liberation, as the path to liberation is threefold. In other words the meaning of the word Tantra is to expand consciousness and liberate energy, which has the same significance as Brahman in the Veda-s) System, doctrine, teaching, science Some texts equate Tantra with Atharva Veda. Tantra sc ripture ( )1stra) of Tantra is considered to be the scripture the Kali Yuga. Many of the TantraTantra-s called !gama-s are thought to the world by Lord )iva in the form of dialogues between Him and Dev2 as Durg1 or P1rvat2. When the dialogue is addressed by P1rvat2 to )iva, the form of Tantra is called Nigama. Another form of Tantra is Y1mala. The doctrine of Tantra emphasizes on unity in duality and duality in unity, the ultimate Reality being both stati c ( )iva as Prak10a aspect) and dynamic ( )akti as Vimar0a aspect). Tantra treats five subjects: the creation of the world, the absorption of the world, the worship of gods, the attainment of desires, the union with the Divine. The Indian Tantra and other similar practices developed in many parts of the world have evolved from taboos, superstitions and agricultural rituals of the primitive people. Even the $g Veda contains chants to ensure success in agriculture. The symbolism of Tantra is in the form of animal or human figures. The five systems of
Tantra are: Dak=i91c1ra, V1m1c1ra, Ved1c1ra, Siddh1nt1c1ra and
Yog1c1ra. In Tantra seven ways of spiritual life are distinguished namely Ved1c1ra, Vai=9av1c1ra, )aiv1c1ra, Dak=i91c1ra Dak=i91c1ra, V1m1c1ra V1m1c1ra, Siddh1nt1c1ra Siddh1nt1c1ra and Kul1c1ra. Kul1c1ra. Tantric symbols are found in the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3000 BCE) on non-Indo-Aryan origin, however many later Tantric practices are based on Vedic practices (including those from Upani=ad-s and Pur19a-s). It can be said there is a closed connection between Tantra Tantr a-s and Veda-s as parallel concepts. there are sixty-four Tantra-s as mentioned by Sa9kara in his work Saundaryalahari. The principal sects or branches of Tantra are )aiva-s (worshippers of )iva), Vai=nava-s (worshippers of Vi=9u) and )1kta-s (worshippers of )akti). Traditionally
Tantra Anu=7h1na The Anu=7h1na related to practices of
Tantra
Tantra S1dhaka vide S1dhaka
Tantra S1dhana The practice of
Tantra
It covers a very wide range of practices. There are four kinds of initiations in the namely Pa0y1c1ra, V2r1c1ra V2r1c1ra, Mah1vidy1 Mah1vidy1-s and Brahmayoga.
Tantra S1dhana
Tantr1sana Tantric posture using the sexual energy in order to unfold and experience higher awareness Typical Tantric postures are Cakr1sana, Puhapak1sana, Yoni !sana, Siddh1sana, Viparitarati Viparitarati !sana, Rati Rati !sana, J1nujugm1sana, Bhag1sana.
Padm1sana,
Tantra01stra The doctrine of
Tantra 169
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Tantra )1str1dhik1ra Tantra It is fully described in Gandharva Tantra (vide S1dhaka for conditions of competency). vide also Adhik1rin Competency for
Tantra Tattva The principles of
Tantra as awareness, meditation and acceptance
Tantr2 The Indian lute or
V291
T1ntrika Lit. 'relating to
Tantra '
A follower of the
Tantra doctrine
T1pa Lit. 'pain' Anxiety accompanying an action ( Karma)
Taparloka vide Loka A Loka inhabited by deified
Vair1gin-s, the level of awareness before Satyaloka.
Tapas (also T1pasya ) (from Tap i.e. to shine, to produce energy) A process of self-purification as one of the five s
Niyama-s and one of the twenty-six Daiv2sampat-
There are three kinds of Tapas acting on different levels on the human body viz. Rajas Tapas and Tamas Tapas.
Sattva Tapas,
vide also Loka
T1pasa Ascetic as practitioner of various
Tapas
T1pasprati=7h1 Tapas A Yog2 possessing Tapasprati=7h1 will have own impurities destroyed and a healthy body. A state acquired by practicing
T1pasya vide Tapas
T1pasya Anu=7h1na The Anu=7h1na related to observance of
T1pasya-s.
T1r1 The second of the
Mah1vidy1-s represents the power of spiritual aspiration
T1raka Lit. 'that which enables to go over' 170
T
The knowledge which liberates; a synonym for liberation; a kind of Mudr1
Pra9ava; a name for Brahman as cause of
Tarpa9a A kind of ceremony when libations of water are presented to gods or deceased people in order to satiate them. Tarpa9a employs also the performance of specific Mantra-s.
Tat Lit. 'that' The Supreme Reality beyond any identification
Tat Sat Lit. 'that which is' Another name for the Supreme Reality
Tattva Lit. 'essence, reality' re ality' Cosmic principle; true state; essential element
Tantra-s there are thirty-six Tattva-s namely: )ivatattva, )aktitattva, Sad10ivatattva, @0varatattva @0varatat tva , )uddhavidy1tattva, M1y1tattva, Kal1tattva, Vidy1tattva, R1gatattva, K1latattva, Niyatitattva, Puru=atattva, Prak4titattva, Buddhitattva, Aha%k1ratattva, Manastattva, )rotratattva )r otratattva, Tvaktattva, Netratattva, Jihvatattva, Ghr19atattva, V1ktattva, Upasthatattva, P1yutattva P1yutattva, P19itattva P19itattva, P1datattva P1datattva, )abdatattva )abdatattva, Spar0atattva Spar0atattva, R3patattva R3patattva, Rasatattva, Gandhatattva Gandhatattva, !k10atattva !k10atattva, V1yutattva V1yutattva, Tejastattva Tejastattva, Aptattva Aptattva, P4thiv2tattva P4thiv2tattva. The thirty-six Tantric Tattva-s are divided into three kinds: pure ( )uddhatattva), pure-impure ()uddh10uddhatattva), and impure ( !0uddhatattva). In the
Tattva Cintana Reflection on supreme consciousness as one of the two sides of the Indian philosophy, the other one being Tattva Dar0ana Typical forms are the through knowledge.
+ad Dar0ana-s as intellectualised systems to approach the supreme reality
Tattva Dar0ana Perception of the supreme consciousness as one of the two sides of the Indian philosophy, the other one being Tattva Cintana It is the experiencing of the supreme reality beyond the intellect, a typical form being Sam1dhi, i.e. the experience of Nirgu9a Brahman.
Nirb2ja
Tattvaj61na Knowledge of the reality
Tattv1k10a The fourth of the
Vyoma Pa6caka-s described as the elemental space
Tattvamasi Lit. 'that you are' A celebrated statement from the Ch1ndogya Upani=ad expressing the identity between and J2v1tman or the potentiality of the human being to be able to identify with the Divine
!tman
Tejas 171
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Fire, light; form of
Agni
vide also Bh3ta The word Tejas has a wide range of significance (related also to the acquisitions from the fire) like vital power, magic power, the heating level of the human body, clearness of the eyes, the brightness of the human body, glow of the body, vitality, brilliance of the mind. Tejas is both the yogic fire which is the same as the celestial fire ( Cidagni). As vigour is one of the twenty-six Daiv2sampats. The esoteric expression of Tejas is the consciousness, in Vedic terms Agni.
Tejasa Te jasa S3k=ma )ar2ra (subtle body) vide also J2v1tman
The Soul in the
Tejastattva The Tattva of
Tejas Known also as Vahnitattva
Tejom1y1 Puru=a The mental consciousness in the state of dream as kind of
Puru=a in the subconscious mind
Tilaka A ritual mark on the forehead to designate one's sect
T2rtha A place of pilgrimage on the banks of a sacred river; a holy place
T2rtha-s could be in outer as well as the inner forms in the human body. Laghu Yoga Vasi=7ha does mention thirty-six T2rtha-s (holy places) in the body where worship should be performed in the form of meditation.
T2rtha^kara Kind of teacher
Titka Bitter, one of the essential tastes ( Rasa -s)
T2vrasa%vega Intensity of the eagerness towards spiritual realization For an aspirant there are three
T2vrasa%vega T2vrasa%vega-s namely M4du, Madhya and Adhim1tra.
vide also Sa%vega
Toya Water vide also Bh3ta
Toyatattva vide Aptattva
Trailokyamohana Cakra Lit. 'the wheel enchanting the three worlds' The Yellow Surround Wheel of the
)r2 Yantra presided by Tripur1 )akti
It consists of a square with four gates (forming the plan of earth named 172
Bh3pura) and three
T
concentric circles, girdles ( Mekhal1), the space between forming the
Traillokyamohana.
Tr17aka Yogic technique of fixing the eyes on one external or internal object or location as one of the +a7karma-s vide also Praty1h1ra
Tret1 Yuga An age of the world consisting of 1,296,000 years vide Yuga
Trigu9a The three
Gu9a-s (vide)
Trigu91ti Beyond the three
Gu9a-s
Trigu91tmik1 The Dev2 in the form of
Prak4ti as composed of the three Gu9a-s
Triko9a Lit. 'triangle'
Sarvasiddhiprada vide Sarvasiddhiprada
Cakra
Trik37i The joining point of the three main
N182-s in the !j6a Cakra
vide also Bhr3madhya
Trim3rti Lit. 'three forms' The Hindu Trinity consisting of Brahm1 (the Creator), Vi=9u Vi=9u (the preserver) and (the destroyer, the one who brings transformation)
Rudra or )iva
Brahm1 (Viri6ci), Vi=9u (Hari) and Rudra (Hara) are the names for functions of the one Universal Consciousness operating within ourselves as well as outside the human body. According Vi=9u and Rudra who create, maintain and destroy, but to Kubjika Tantra there are not Brahm1, Vi=9u their )akti-s as manifestations namely Brahm192, Vi=9av2 Vi=9av2 and Rudr192. These three forms of functions are present in various degrees in any activity. Brahm1 as function should be seen in any activity of creation and multiplication, Vi=9u in any activity which stops creation but maintains the already existing status of things, Rudra in any activity which stops creation and destroys the existing things through absorption. In terms of spiritual evolution Rudra's function becomes essential as the activity of consciously going back to the source of creation and becoming one is Yoga (union). vide also S4=7i Sthiti Sa%h1ra
Tripur1 Lit. 'she who is threefold'
Dev2 Dev2 The K1lik1 Pur19a says: "She has three angles as well as three circles and her Bh3pura is threelined. Her Mantra is said to be of three syllables and She has three aspects. Ku98ali92 energy is
An aspect of
also threefold in order that She may create the three gods, thus since She is everywhere triple, She is 173
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
Tripur1". Tripur1r9ava work says: " Tripur1 means the three N182-s, Su=umn1, I81 and Pi9gal1, it means also Manas, Buddhi and Citta. As Dev2 dwells in these She is called Tripur1". Tripur1 refers also to the three Bindu-s at the centre of )r2 Yantra. vide also Trailokyamohana Cakra , Bindu, Tripur1ntaka called
Tripur1 Bhairav2 The sixth of the ten time of all existence
Mah1vidy1-s represents the power of destruction as the annihilated power of
Tripuram1lin2 Tripur1 vide also Sarvarak=1kara Cakra
The Garlanded
Tripur1mb1 Tripur1 vide also Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprad Sarvasiddhiprada a Cakra The Mother
Tripurasiddh1 Tripur1 vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra The Perfect
Tripura0r2 Tripur1 vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Cakra Sarv1rthas1dhaka The Holy
Tripur1sundar2 Tripur1 vide also Sarva0a%k=obha9a Sarva0a%k=obha9a Cakra, Bindu
The Beautiful
Tripurav1sin2 The Dwelling Tripur1 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Tripur1ntaka Lit. 'the one destroying the three cities' A name of
)iva
The three cities are Lobha, K1ma and Krodha, which are the Pa6c1gni-s (fires) associated with the three lower Cakra-s. Their destruction means the overcoming of these fires and the raise of the level of consciousness above them.
Tripure0i Tripur1 vide also Sarv1s1paripuraka Sarv1s1paripuraka Cakra
The Sovereign
Tri=tubh Eleven syllables as Vedic meter used in addressing the Divine
Trive92 (vide Pray1ga for the place of pilgrimage) The conjunction of the three main 174
N182-s between the eyebrows
T
I81 N182 dwells Dev2 Jamun1, in the Pi^gal1 N182 dwells Dev2 Ga^g1, in the Su=umn1 N182 dwells Dev2 Sarasvat2 .
In the
Tulas2 Basil; the goddess having this name as an aspect of
Dev2
Commonly known as Tuls2, it is a small shrub, a sacred plant venerated mainly by Vai=9ava-s. It is said the plant Tuls2 was produced from the hair of the goddess Tuls2, Tuls2, a primal expression of goddess Lak=m2.
Tuls2 vide Tulas2
Tur2ya (also Turya ) Ecstatic state, the fourth state of Soul beyond the
Avasth1-s
It is the highest level of consciousness, the knowledge of and union with
Brahman.
vide also Mah1 K1ra9a )ar2ra
Tur2y1t2ta One who has realised the state of
Tur2ya
Turya vide Tur2ya
Tu=7i Contentment, fulfilment
Tvak Organ of touch, the skin vide also Dh1tu, J61nendriya J61nendriya
Tvaktattva The Tattva of Tvak
Tvarit1 One of the
Nitya )akti-s
Tva=74 Tva=74 Proficiency in making good things as one of the twelve
!ditya-s
Ty1ga (from Tyaj i.e. to renounce) Renunciation as one of the twenty-six
Daiv2sampat-s
Ty1gin One on the path of
Tyaga
175
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
U Ucc17anakarma Lit. 'action of ruining an enemy' One of the +a7karma-s which gives the power to ruin and torment an enemy by creating material discomfort, pain, shame, etc. It is one of the five malefic magical rites in the
Tantra-s.
Ud1na The V1yu which controls circulation into the body vide also Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dha ka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvama^gal1k1ri92 Sarvama^gal1k1ri92, Devasu Devasu=i Devasu =i, Utkr1nti
Udd1laka vide Sad Vidy1, Udd1laka !ru9i Vidy1
Udd1laka !ru9i Vidy1 The knowledge of
Udd1laka !ru9i
A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s. Udd1laka !ru9i was a renowned Br1hma9a teacher who had the knowledge of !tm1 as being latent in everything. It is given the example of V1yu as being like a thread binding everything in the world and Pr19a like a thread in the human body. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
U882 Lit. 'to fly up; to cause to fly up' The action or feeling of flying
U882y1na Bandha Lit. 'upwards lock'
Bandha as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s vide also Bandhatraya
The flying up
U882y1na P27ha Dev2 in the middle of the Sarv1nandamaya Sarv1nandamaya Cakra Known also as O882y1na P27ha (or Au882y1na P27ha) it is equated with Sahasr1ra Cakra. vide also U882, Catu=p27ha The symbol of creation as attribute of the
Udg1t4 One of the four Vedic priests ( $tvija-s), the one who chants the hymns of the
S1ma Veda An Udg1t4 is is assisted by three other helper priests, viz. Prastot4 , Pratihart4 and and Subrahma9ya.
Udg1raka The J17har1gni (digestive fire) of belching (vomiting) vide also Sarvap1pahar1 176
U
Udg2tha Lit. 'to chant aloud' The chanting of S1ma Veda by the Udg1t4 priest; priest; the chanting of the S1ma Veda.
O% Mantra; a general name for
Udg2tha Vidy1 The knowledge of
Pra9ava O%
A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two expression of the name of God.
Vidy1-s, which deals with the chanting of the O% Mantra as
vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Ujj1y2 Lit. 'causing victory' In Ha7ha Yoga one of the eight major kinds of
Pr191y1ma
Um1 A form of
Dev2
Unm1dana One of the five arrows of
K1madeva the one causing intoxication with love
vide also Sarvonm1di92
Unman2 (also Unman2 Avasth1) Lit. 'to become absent in mind' A kind of state beyond the experience of the mind
Unman2 Avasth1 vide Unman2
Unman2bh1va Unman2bh1va Absence of mind as attitude ( Bh1va) vide also Unman2
Unnet4 In the Veda-s a helper priest assisting the recipients
Adhvaryu priest by pouring the Soma Rasa into the
Upac1ra Offering used for worship
Up1d1na The act of accepting vide also Ana^gam1lin2 Ana^gam1lin2,
Up1sana
Upade0a Advice
Upakosala Vidy1 The knowledge of
Upakosala 177
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A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s. This Vidy1, named after Upakosala Kamal1yana, a disciple of Satyak1ma J1b1la, deals with the knowledge of the three kinds of Agni and their Loka-s as levels of awareness. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Upani=ad Lit. 'sitting by the side' A class of philosophical works exposing the secret doctrine They are regarded as a source of Ved1nta, acquired by sitting near the master.
S1%kya and Yoga philosophies, the secret knowledge
vide also Mah1v1kya
Up1saka Worshipper, devotee
Up1sana The external worship and contemplation with the aim to integrate in oneself the two polarities as )iva - )akti It has five stages i.e. Abhigamana (approach), Up1d1na (acceptance of offering), Sv1dhy1ya (recitation of Mantra-s), and Yoga (devotional feeling of unity).
Ijy1 (oblation),
vide also Sagu9op1sana
Upasarga Obstacle in spiritual life
Upastha Sexual organs vide also Karmendriya
Upasthatattva The Tattva of Upastha
Upavas Up avas Lit. 'sitting by the side of God' Fasting
Up1ya A means to successfully approach an action; a stratagem There are various
Up1ya-s depending on purpose.
Upek=a Upek=1) Upek=a is also one of the Citta Pras1dana-s as an attitude towards people full of vice. vide also Ana^gamekhal1 The act of ignoring or disregarding (also
#rdhvam3la Lit. 'upper origin'
Brahman as the root cause represented by Adha501kha 178
U
#rdhvaretas Lit. 'raising the semen upwards'
Yog2 when the sexual energy is sublimated For this purpose Mudra Bandha-s techniques are recommended. A certain condition of a
#rdhva0akti Ku98alin2 )akti-s
The upper one of the
Uruloka Lit. 'great world' The wide space; awareness of the vast space
U=as In the Veda-s represents the dawn, awakening, blossoming, full-moon night; the Dawn Goddess as symbol of awakening
U=asta Kohala Vidy1 A Veda Vidy1, one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s that deals with the knowledge of U=asta C1kr1ya9a and Kohala Kau=2taka about the bondage of the Soul. Only through renunciation will come the knowledge leading one to Devaloka. vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
U=9a Lit. 'hot; passionate' The mental activity of being ardent, passionate
Sarvarogahara vide also Sarvarogahara
Cakra, K1me02 K1me02
U=7r1sana The camel !sana
Utka71sana The hazardous
!sana
Utkr1nti Levitation as a result of possessing
Laghim1 Siddhi
It is considered that levitation can be experienced by mastery over
Ud1na V1yu.
Utt1nak3rm1sana The straight tortoise
!sana
Utt1nama98uk1sana The straight frog
!sana
Uttar1yana Sun's progress north of the equator (from 22nd Dec. to 21st June) expressing the northwards way to Yama's quarter; the bright path The passage of the sun is called Uttar1yana Sa%kr1nti or Sa%kr1nti. For the departed soul it offers the experience of Agni and Jyotir i.e. the consciousness will not return to the material plane. vide also Dak=i91yana 179
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
V Vacana The act of speaking vide also Ana^gakusum1
V1cika Kind of worship of
Dev2 by speech; any vocal worship
vide also Y1ga
V1ditva The ability to speak clearly vide also P198itya
Vagbhavak37a One group (section) of
Pa6cada0i presided over by Agni
V1gdev2 A deity of mental expression The V1gdev2-s are expressions of some mental activities or qualities, out of which the speech is only one. There are eight V1gdev2-s (each being the Devat1 of one expression only) namely: Va0in2, K1me0i K1me0i, Modin2 Modin2, Vimal1 Vimal1, Aru91 Aru91, Jayin2 Jayin2, Sarve02 Sarve02 and Kaulin2. vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara
Cakra
V1gmitva The ability of eloquence vide also P198itya
Vahni Fire The A%0a-s of
Vahni in the Pi98198a are the five J61nendriya-s vide also Bh3ta
Vahnikal1 The essence of fire vide also Sarvarak=1kara Sarvarak=1kara
Cakra
Vahnis1ra Dhauti One of the Antardhauti-s (known also as fire purification
Vahnitattva vide
Tejastattva
Vahniv1sin2 180
Agnis1ra) a yogic technique to increase Ja7har1gni by
V
Nity1 Nity1 )akti-s
One of the
Vaidika Lit. 'relating to
Veda '
The name of the Vedic tradition
Vaikhar2 The physical (vocal) stage of
)abda (vide)
Vaiku97ha Indra or Vi=9u; the paradise of Vi=9u
A name of
Vair1gin Somebody who has accomplished
Vair1gya
vide also Taparloka
Vair1gya Bh1va-s The inner freedom as freedom of the mind is seen to giving up R1ga and Dve=a through control by the mind. It is the level of awareness of Taparloka. vide also Avair1gya, Pa6c1gni Pa6c1gni Detachment (i.e. expression of inner freedom) as one of the eight
Vairaty1ga Cessation of enmity as a result of
Ahi%s1prati=7h1
Vai01kha The month corresponding to parts of April/ May vide also M1sa
Vai0e=ika One of the
+ad Dar0ana-s
Vai=9ava A follower of
Vi=9u; the Vi=9u tradition
Vai=9av2 vide Trim3rti
Vai0vadeva Vai0vadeva Lit. 'relating to all the gods' All Deva-s (gods) A Vai0vadeva ceremony consists in homage to all the gods followed by food offering to the gods, particularly to Agni. Practically the act of eating should be seen as an offering to Agni who takes the form of fire of digestion. vide also Vai0v1nara
Vai0v1nara Lit. 'relating to all the people' Humankind, God as humankind (also
Vai0v1nara !tm1) 181
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vide also Vai0vadeva, Vai0v1nara Vai0v1nara Vidy1, Sa%varga Sa%varga Vidy1
Vai0v1nara !tm1 vide Vai0v1nara, Vai0v1nara Vai0v1nara Vidy1
Vai0v1nara Puru=a The mental consciousness of the humankind as kind of
Puru=a of the conscious individual mind
vide also Vai0v1nara
Vai0v1nara Vidy1 The knowledge
Vai0v1nara
A Veda Vidy1 (one of the thirty-two Vidy1-s) deals with the knowledge of Vai0v1nara !tm1 as humanity and the corresponding relation to the human body. The macro/ micro relation will make some human activities as access gates to the macro world. The act of eating is to be seen as an offering to Vai0v1nara, the own heart as Vedi, the digestive fire as Agni, etc.
Vai0v1nara vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1, Vai0v1nara
Vai0ya One of the
Var9a-s in the Vedic tradition consisting of tradesmen and agricultural people
Vajra Thunderbolt seen as
Indra's bow representing the power of discrimination
Vajra N182 A channel of energy outside the
Su=umn1 N182
vide also Vajrol2
Vajr1sana The diamond
!sana
Vajre0var2 Lit. 'the diamond queen'
!vara9a Devat1-s presiding over the principle of existence of Aha%k1ra vide also Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprad a Cakra Sarvasiddhiprada One of the
Vajrol2 Mudr1 The Vajra N182 Mudr1 as one of the
Mudr1 Bandha-s
Vajsa%hananatv1ni Adamant hardness as one of the four
K1ya Sampad-s
V1k Lit. 'speech, vibration; mouth' The primordial sound known also as vide also Dhenu
V1k Dev2 vide )abda
V1ktattva 182
)abda (vide)
V
The Tattva of
V1k
V1m1c1ra V1m1c1ra The left-hand division of Tantra as spiritual path with own wife whose place traditionally is to the left of her husband. This path is known also as V1ma M1rga.
V1makrama Yogic technique of alternative nostril breathing as one of the three
Kap1labh1ti-s
V1ma M1rga vide V1m1c1ra
V1mana An incarnation of
Vi=9u as dwarf, a representation of the dawn of human existence
Vamana Dhauti Cleaning by vomiting as one of the
H4d Dhauti-s in order to cure the diseases c oming from Do=a-s
V1naprastha Lit. 'hermit, anchorite' vide !0rama
Vandana One of the nine Lord
A^ga-s of Bhakti Yoga as the devotional act of prostration before the image of the
V1r1hi The )akti of the Boar ( Var1ha) Avat1ra of
Vi=9u; the earth
Vara Mudr1 The gesture of granting boons (favours)
Vara9a Vara9a The obstacle that does not allow the individual consciousness ( J2v1tman) to manifest There are three Vara9a-s namely M1l1 (impurity of the mind), Vik=epa (distraction), (the covering of the inner reality), their process of removal is called Vara9abheda Vara9abheda.
!vara9a
Vara9abheda The process of removal of obstacles ( Vara9a )
Varga Group, family
V1ris1ra Dhauti One of the
Antardhauti-s, as purification with water
Varjana Yoga path There are seven kinds of Varjana-s (according to Am4tabindu Upani=ad) namely Bhaga, Krodha, !lasya, Atisvapna, Atij1gara, Aty1h1ra and An1h1ra. Things to avoid as observance on the
Var9a 183
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The four main classes (castes) described in and )3dra-s; the Sa^skrit letter
Manu's code, viz. Br1hman-s, K=atriya-s, Vai0ya-s
V1rta The sense of supernormal smelling vide also Pr1tibha
Vartam1na Dharma The inherent property of present time, one of the three
Dharma-s (as inherent properties of time)
Varu9a Lit. 'the one who covers' A Vedic god as personification of space In the Veda-s the god of heaven and earth having many attributes. Later on Varu9a was associated with the waters of the atmosphere. In the Vedic literature Varu9a is invoked together with Indra, Mitra, Agni, Yama, etc., as associations of attributes. Varu9a is also one of the twelve !ditya-s.
Varu9a Dharmapati Varu9a the lord of right conduct One of the eight Devas3 -s, an aspect of Varu9a
Varu9a Mudr1 The gesture of
Varu9a
V1ru92 N182 The N182 connected to the right shoulder vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvahl1di92 Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
V1san1 The mental form as impression becoming resident in the form of the basic structure of mental consciousness
Sa%sk1ra as latent potentiality;
The accumulated impressions are generated by Abhinive0a (will to live) as a process without beginning. V1san1-s stop to accumulate when their cause (i.e. the Kle0a-s) will cease to create afflictions. The V1san1-s will disappear through the elimination of four factors namely Hetu (cause), Phala (effect), !0raya (support of an experience) and !lambana (object of an experience) therefore Citta becomes pure and capable to reflect both the Dra=7a and the D40ya. vide also Sarv1rtha
Va=a7 vide Dhenu
Va0ik1ra A high form of
Vair1gya
Va0ikara9akarma Lit. 'action of subjugating' One of the +a7karma-s which gives the power to attract and bring under control gods, men, women and animals and make them to act according to the one's desires One of the five malefic rites in the 184
Tantra-s.
V
Va0in2 The subduing (mastering) One
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental activity of )ita (calm). vide also Sarvarogahara Sarvarogahara Cakra One of the
Vasi=7ha $=i an exponent of Vedanta teaching vide also Sapta4=i, Brahm1, Samaya, K1madhenu
Name of a
Va0itva Lit. 'fitness for subject ion' One of the eight ei ght yogic powers of keeping others under control vide also Siddhi, A=7asiddhi A=7asiddhi
V1sodhauti Cleaning by cloth as one of the
H4d Dhauti-s in order to cure many diseases
Vasti vide Basti
Va0ya The subjecting to one's will by
Mantra-s, Yantra-s, etc.
Va0ya Siddhi The power of subjugation vide also Siddhi
V1ta One of the three
Do=a-s
In !yurveda system a deficiency of air as a cause to diseases.
V1tas1ra Dhauti One of the
Antardhauti-s, as air purification
V1tsalya Affection; one of the
Bh1va-s of Bhakti Yoga, also one of the Rasa-s
Vau=at A certain Mantra
V1yav2 Dh1ra91 The Dh1ra9 Dh1ra91 1 on air as one of the
Pa6cadh1ra91-s
V1yu Lit. 'wind, air, breath' Air, vital air; the god of air
A%0a-s of V1yu in the Pi98198a are the five major vital airs viz. Ap1na, Sam1na, Pr19a, Ud1na, Vy1na and the five minor airs viz, N1ga, K3rma, K4kara, Devadatta and Dhana6jay1. In the $g Veda, V1yu is the god of the wind. The
185
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vide also Bh3ta,
Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dhaka Cakra, Devasu=i
V1yutattva The Tattva of
V1yu
Veda Lit. 'knowledge, wisdom'
Sa%hit1, Br1hma9a, !ra9yaka !ra9yaka and Upani=ad vide also $tvija, Brahma Tantra, Sat Cit !nanda The main Sa%hit1-s are $g, Yajur , S1ma and Atharva. As religion the Veda-s are called the !rya Dharma (path of noble people). The gods of Vedic trinity are Indra, Agni and S3rya. Soma is also a very important deity, so the fourfold godhead of the Veda-s are Indra, Agni, Soma and S3rya. A collection of writings structured in four parts
Ved1c1ra The Veda-s based division of
Tantra
It involves specific practices of meditation in order to raise
Ku98ali92 through the will power.
vide Tantra
Vedanaa Vedan The sense of supernormal touching vide also Pr1tibha
Ved1nta Veda ' ' One of the +ad Dar0ana-s teaching the essence of the Veda-s
Lit. 'end of
Veda S1dhana A practice from
Veda-s
vide S1dhana
Veda Vidy1 The knowledge of
Veda-s
There is a wide variety of Veda Veda Vidy1-s, their practice is called Veda S1dhana. An attempt for their classification is made in the Dv1tri%0at Vidy1-s taxonomy, however there are other Veda Vidy1-s outside it. This knowledge that comes from Vedic scriptures is considered to be higher Yoga Yoga and a subject to be learned from a qualified person. The most important works on various Veda Vidy1-s are seen to be Ch1ndogya and B4had1ra9yaka Upani=ad-s, Ved1nta S3tra, Satapatha Br1hma9a, Kau=2tak2 Upani=ad. The purpose of Veda Vidy1-s is the knowledge of Brahman. vide also Veda, Ved1c1ra, Dv1tri%0at Vidy1
Vedha Siddhi The power to be pious and faithful vide also Siddhi
Vedi (also Ved2) Sacrificial ground vide also Vai0v1nara Vidy1 186
V
Vedyagni The fire on the
Vedi
Vega Lit. 'agitation, emotion, excitement; effe ct of poison; flood of water or tears; semen vir ile' vide Ana^gavegan2
Vibhu Brahmaloka standing for Aha%k1ra vide also Parya^ka Vidy1
The hall in the
Vibh3ti The power of an enlightened Soul; the supernatural power known also as third chapter of Yoga S3tra
Siddhi described in the
Vicak=a9a Brahmaloka standing for Mahat vide also Parya^ka Vidy1
The throne in the
Vic1ra The state of consciousness flowing without the basis of discriminate
)abda (as word) and being able to
Vic1ra is a S3k=ma (subtle) kind of Vi=aya.
Vidve=a9akarma Lit. 'action of exciting enmity' One of the +a7karma-s which gives the power of creating ill-feelings and separating two parties like friends, lovers, relatives, etc. One of the five malefic magical rites in the
Tantra -s.
Vidy1 Vid y1 Lit. 'that which expands' Science, knowledge, learning; meditat ion conducting to knowledge; non-duality vide also Dv1tri%0at Vidy1, Mah1vidy1, J61na, Kaivalya, Sahaja
Vidy1dhara A kind of being possessing possess ing of magical powers attending upon
)iva in the Him1laya Him1laya-s; fairy
Vidy1 Ka6cuka Form of )akti limiting the perception of the real knowledge as being one with the primordial unity of )iva )akti vide also Tattva,
Vidy1tattva
Vidy1p27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of the
Dev2 in the )r2 Vidy1 (i.e. the )r2 Yantra )
vide also Pitha
Vidy1r1ja The Royal Science 187
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide Pa9cada02
Vidy1tattva The Tattva of
Vidy1 Ka6cuka
Vighne0vara Lit. 'remover of obstacles' A name of
Ga9e=a
Vijay1 One of the
Nity1 )akti-s; ever victorious
Vij61na Brahman as manifestation (i.e. Sagu9a Brahman) vide also J61na, Bh3ma Vidy1 Perception; direct perception of
Vij61namaya Ko0a The body of intellect as sphere of consciousness known also as Buddhimaya Ko0a it is the expression and experience of the intellect and has the seat in the Vi0uddhi Vi0uddhi and !j61 Cakra-s.
Vikalpa A part, aspect or concept as object of meditation; one of the five
Cittav4tti-s
vide also Savikalpa Sam1dhi, Nirvikalpa Sam1dhi
Vikara9a Bh1va The state of perception without the instrumentality of
J61nendriya-s and Karmendriya Karmendriya-s
Vik=epa Lit. 'what distracts or diverts' divert s' Distraction on the path of
Yoga
There are nine Vik=epa-s in the form of Citta V4tti-s (vide). Vik=epa is also one of the two functions of M1y1 as the illusion of believing that Self-realization lies without.
Vik=epasahabh3 Yoga (vide Yoga S3tra I.31) There are four Vik=epasahabh3-s namely Du5kha, Daurmanasya, A^gamejayatva and )v1sa Pra0v1sa connected to the Ko0a-s (except !nandamaya Ko0a which transcends distraction). The four Vik=epasahabh3-s are associated to the nine Citta Vik=epa-s as obstructive distractions in Yoga. Associate obstructive distraction on the path of
Vik=ipta Agitated state as one of the five
Cittabh3mi-s
Vimal1 The afflicting One
V1gdev2-s corresponding to the mental activity of Du5kha (distressed) Sarvarogahara Cakra vide also Sarvarogahara One of the
Vim1na The celestial chariot 188
V
Vimar0a )akti Manifested Power
)akti inclined towards creation. )iva is the other aspect called Prak10a. According to K1makal1vil1sa work, it is the pure mirror in which )iva reflects Himself. vide also )iva, )akti, )iva )akti, !dy10akti Aspect of
V291 The Indian lute usually having seven st rings The most celebrated one is
V29a of Sarasvat2. There is also a Tantra called V291 Tantra.
vide also Tantr2
Vipar2ta Kara92 Lit. 'inverted effect ' The reversal polarity as one of the
Mudr1 Bandha-s
Viparyaya Incorrect knowledge as a form of
Avidy1 and one of the five Cittav4tti-s
vide also Pram19a
V2ra A kind of Rasa-s
S1dhaka at a level between Pa0u and Divya in the Tantra-s; heroism as one of the
In a V2ra kind of person the
Rajas Gu9a is predominant.
vide also S1dhaka
V2ra Bh1va One of the Bh1va-s as a state of human personality based on activity and motion, therefore of Rajas nature vide also S1dhaka
V2r1c1ra The second kind of initiation in the
Tantra S1dhana
vide Tantra S1dhana
Viraj1 The ageless river in the Brahmaloka whose crossing enable the devotee never to grow old, but to live to the age of Brahm1 i.e. to attain Self-realization
V2r1sana The hero
!sana
Viri6ci Lit. 'he who creates' A name of
Brahm1
V2rya Physical and mental energy; courage to overcome obstacles on the path of
Yoga
It represents the energy accumulated by sublimation of sexual energy in order to stimulate the 189
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
unfolding of consciousness.
V2ryayojan1 Lit. 'energy union' The process in which the
Guru gives to the disciple the power of a Mantra
Visarga The symbol of two dots (:) pronounced like H with a distinctly audible aspiration; the act of evacuation of excrement
)iva )akti as a double Bindu. vide also Bindu, Ana^gavegan2 Esoterically is the symbol of
Visarjana The act of throwing the image of a deity into holy water as a rite of bidding farewell at the end of a festival or worship It has either practical or symbolical aspects.
Vi=aya An object of sense perception , knowledge or meditation vide also Vic1ra, Vitarka
Vi=ayak1ra The active state of
Citta in which identifies itself with the senses
Vi=ayak1ra V4tti The V4tti of
Vi=ayak1ra state
Vi=ayavat2 Prav4tti The sense experience as kind of
Dh1ra91 on Tanm1tra-s
Vi0e=a Vi0e=a Lit. 'without difference'
Gu9aparva-s in which Savitarka Sam1dhi is experienced The difference has to be seen as the distinction between Puru=a and Prak4ti, in Yoga an essential
One of the four experience.
vide also !tmabh1va
Vi=9u Lord Vi=nu one of the Hindu trinity ( Trimurti) protector of the Universe, presiding over the preservation of the Brahm198a; the Devat1 of !p Bh3ta His vehicle is Garu8a, the Eagle. Lord Vi=nu is the consort of Lak=m2 . There are ten incarnations (Avat1ra-s) of Vi=nu namely Fish ( Matsya), Tortoise ( K3rma), Boar ( Var1ha), Man-lion (Narasi%ha), Dwarf (V1mana), Para0ur1ma, R1ma, K4=9a, Buddha and Kalki as evolutionary unfolding of the universe. Vi=nu is also one of the twelve !ditya-s.
Vi=9ugranthi Vi=nu ' ' Located in the S3rya Kha98a represents the attachment to Krodha (anger) and Moha (infatuation)
Lit. 'knot of
Vi0ok1 190
V
The process of removal of sorrow vide also Jyoti=mat2
Vi0uddhi Cakra (also Vi0uddha Cakra) Lit. 'purification
Cakra ' '
The Cakra located on the vertebral column behind the throat pit
Cakra is associated with the J61nendriya of )rotra, the Karmendriya of V1k , the Tanm1tra of )abda, is the center for Ud1na V1ya and the seat of Vij61namaya Ko0a, the level of awareness is Janarloka. vide also S1kin2 This
Vi0va All pervading, universe
Vi0vadar1 N182 The N182 connected to the right cheek
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvakar=i92 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Vi0vakarman Lit. 'the one who creates ever ything' A Vedic god personifying the creative force
Vi=van1tha Lit. 'Lord of the universe' A name of
)iva
Vi0va Puru=a A mental consciousness of the world as kind of
Puru=a of the conscious mind
Vi0var3pa The cosmic form
Vitalaloka vide Loka
V2tar1ga A person who has renounced attachment ( R1ga)
Vitarka The state of consciousness flowing with the basis of discriminate; intention
)abda (as word) and being able to
Vitarka is a Sth3la (gross) kind of Vi=aya.
Vivasvat Harmony in nature as one of the twelve
!ditya-s
Viveka J61na Yoga It is the level of awareness of Satyaloka and the expression of freedom from Mada (pride). Discrimination between real and unreal, reality and illusion as a process of
191
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide also Pa6c1gni,
Vajra
Viveka J61na Discriminative knowledge vide also Satyaloka
Vivekakhy1ti The knowledge through Viveka as a continuous process of awareness of the reality ( Sat) and fulfilment of H1na (liberation) vide also Pratiprasava,
Khy1ti
Vrata Lit. 'vow; service' A rite of devotion or vow of austerity; a rite of Goddess worship In the
Veda-s signifies the milk as the only food after taking the vow of such austerity.
V4k=1sana The tree
!sana
V4nd1vana The village on the river where
K4=9a spent his youth, today an important place of pilgrimage
V4=abha In the Veda-s a name for the bull (known also as V4=an) representing the power behind the creation complementing Dhenu (the milk cow). V4=abha has to be seen as the symbol of the male principle in the Veda-s, a parallel concept with Puru=a in Yoga.
V4=abha Dhenu In the Veda-s the bull and the milk cow as symbols of two polarities viz. heaven and earth, father and mother, male and female, a parallel concept with Puru=a and Prak4ti in Yoga. The heavenearth unity is often personified in the Veda-s as Varu9a.
V4=an Veda-s the bull vide V4=abha
In the
V4=1sana The bull
!sana
V4tra Veda-s the dragon as symbol of ignorance vide also Avidy1, Aj61na In the
V4trahan In the
Veda-s a name of Indra as destroyer of V4tra
V4tti Condition of a mental activity having as background the
Citta
The V4tti-s are of three kinds namely waking ( J1grat ), dreaming ( Svapna) and dreamless sleep (Su=upti) 192
V
The suppression of V4tti-s is an essential condition of the state of Yoga (vide Cittav4tti), their superimposition on Citta will cease only when the state of Dharmamegha Sam1dhi is reached. vide also Avasth1
V4ttinirodha The non-rise of any kind of
V4tti in the Citta as a state of Yoga
vide also Cittav4ttinirodha
Vy1dhi The state of disease as one of the nine
Citta Vik=epa-s
Vy1kara9a Lit. 'separation, explanation' Revelation; grammar
Vy1khy1na Mudr1 The gesture of explanation
Vy1khy1t4tva Vy1khy1t4tva The ability of clear explanation vide also Pa98itya
Vyakta Gu9a-s vide also Avyakta, Prasava, Pratiprasava, Abhivyaktik1ra9a The manifested principle of creation made up of the three
Vy1na The V1yu which distributes and circulates the energy all over the body
Sarv1rthas1dhak a vide also V1yu, Sarv1rthas1dhaka Sarv1rthas1dhaka
Cakra, Sarvapriya%kar2, Devasu=i
Vy1pti Lit. 'attainment' Acquisition of a
Tattva
Vyoma Ether; space vide also Bh3ta
Vyoma Pa6caka The five subtle spaces as intermediate stages of Mah1k10a, Tattv1k10a and S3ry1k10a.
Dh1ra9a viz. Gu9a Rahita !k10a, Param1k10a Param1k10a,
Vyomatattva vide !k10atattva
Vyutkrama Yogic technique of taking water through both nostrils and expelling it through the mouth as one of the three Kap1labh1ti-s.
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Y Y1ga Worship as general term in all Indian traditions
Dev2's worship is of three kinds: Antary1ga (or K1yika), Bahiry1ga (B1hyay1ga or V1cika) and Bh1vana (or M1nasa). A special kind of worship is Mah1y1ga. The
Yajm1na A priest presiding over
Yaj6a
Yaj6a (also Y1j6a) Lit. 'worship, prayer, devotion; oblation, offering, sac rifice' The fire sacrifice as altar of the Vedic fire
Y1j6a means also sacrifice as one of the twenty-six Daiv2sampat-s. Y1j6a is basically an expression of consciousness in a Vedic ritual form in order to obtain awareness, therefore a parallel concept to Sam1dhi in Yoga. vide also !tm1rpa9a, $tvija, Puru=a Vidy1, Agni,
Homa, Cidagni, Cidagni Ku98a
Y1j6avalkya A sage householder in the
B4had1ra9yaka B4had1ra9yaka Upani=ad
vide also Maitrey2 Vidy1
Yajur Veda One of the four
Veda-s known also as the sacrificial Veda
vide Veda
Y1kin2 The )akti residing in
Sahasr1ra Cakra
Yak=a A class of semi-divine beings
Yama In the Veda-s the god who rules the spirits of the dead and presides over the Pit4 -s; -s; in Yoga one of the eight A^ga-s of the A=71^gaYoga of Pata6jali. It contains five moral codes of conduct viz. Ahi%s1, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacarya, Aparigraha all as expressions of a balanced state of mind.
Y1mala A class of Tantra Tantra works
Tantra vide )iva, Tantra
Yamun1 A river in India commonly known as
Trive92 vide also Pray1ga, Trive92 194
Jumn1
Y
Yantra Lit. 'amulet; mystical diagram' A form-symbol of a deity; a Tantric symbol of unity of Macrocosm ( Brahm198a) and Microcosm (Pi98198a); an expression of the supreme consciousness as diagram or symbol The most celebrated Yantra is )r2 Yantra. A fundamental concept is that the human body as Microcosm is a Yantra therefore subject to meditation of various kinds. vide also Ma98ala, +ada^ga
Yantrop1sana Meditation on
Yantra
Ya0ovat2 N182 The N182 connected to the right thigh
Sarvasaubh1gya d1yaka Cakra, Sarvastambhi92 Sarvastambhi92 vide also Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka Sarvasaubh1gyad1yaka
Y1tr1 Expedition, pilgrimage, campaign with a spiritual purpose
Yoga (from the root Y3j i.e. to connect) Lit. 'joining, yoking' The state of union with the Divine; one of the
+a8 Dar0ana-s; disunion between Puru= Puru=a a and
Prak4ti Yoga consists of different physiological, mental and spiritual practices of union, knowledge, awareness and understanding leading to self-discovery of the individual nature as well as the higher nature or cosmic Self. Traditionally Lord )iva was the first Yog2 who taught the Yoga Vidy1 as part of Tantra to his wife P1rvat2, the first )i0ya. Any conscious step upwards is Yoga. There are many classifications of Yoga-s depending of kinds of practices. The main paths are considered to be J61na Yoga Yoga, Karma Yoga and Bhakti Yoga as described in the Bhagavad G2t1 by K4=9a. vide also Pratiprasava,
Yog2, Yog1c1ra, Trim3rti, Yoga Avasth1
Yoga Anu=7h1na The Anu=7h1na related to practices of
Yoga as spiritual union
Yoga Avasth1 The Yoga state known also as
Bh3mik1 There are four Yoga states namely !ra%bha, Gha7a, Paricaya and Ni=patti as gradual experiences of Ku98alin2 ascending (i.e. !roha9a) the Su=umn1 N182.
Yog1c1ra The Yoga based division of
Tantra
The Tantric path based of yogic techniques vide Tantra Tantr a
Yoga Dar0ana The Indian system of philosophy of
Yoga
vide also +a8 Dar0ana
Yogam1y1 S1dhana The magical practices in the
Tantra-s 195
A Sanskrit Dictionary of Spirituality
vide also +a7karma
Yog1^ga Yoga vide also A=71^ga Yoga
The steps of
Yoga Nidr1 The yogic technique of conscious sleep by rotating the consciousness through the different parts of the body
Yoga Nidr1, the space of knowledge (i.e. Cid1k10a) is contacted. In the modern times Yoga Nidr1 was reformulated by Svam2 Saty1nanda Sarasvat2 (of Deoghar) from the Tantric tradition as an introduction to meditation ( Dhy1na ). vide also Sa%kalpa Through
Yoga S1dhana The practice of
Yoga
vide S1dhana
Yog1sana The union
!sana
Yoga S3tra The book of Yoga by Pata6jali teaching the eight-fold path towards attaining spiritual liberation (Nirv19a or Sam1dhi) vide also A=71^ga Yoga
Yoga Vidy1 The knowledge of
Yoga
Yog2 (also Yogi) Yoga; ascetic; one who has attained Yoga As levels of spiritual realization there are four kinds of Yog2 namely Prathamakalpika, Madhubh3mika, Praj61jyoti Praj61jyoti, Atikr1ntabh1van2ya. The necessary conditions for a Yog2 to step from one level to another and use Siddhi-s is to be able to overcome gradually Sa^ga (attachment) and Smaya (pride). Then the Devat1-s will pay attention to the Yog2. After achieving the experience of Dharmamegha Sam1dhi the Yog2 becomes !ptak1ma, !ptaj61na and Antasa^kalpa since the veil of knowledge has been removed. vide also T2vrasa%vega, Yogin2, Maithuna
A male practitioner of
Yogin2 Female
Yog2
Tantric female Yog2 having magical powers ( Siddhi-s). A Yogin2 is also a female representing a goddess who is subject to adoration. Traditionally there are sixty-four Yogin2-s (i.e. Cau0atti Yogin2-s). vide also Maithuna, Tantra
Yogyat1 The attitude and quality to be an enjoyer and an object of enjoyment in the same time
Yoni 196
Y
Lit. 'womb; source, origin; place of rest, home; vagina' The matrix of generation as a symbol of cosmic primordial source of the material world
Yoniku98a A particular
Yantra diagram; a place of oblation and worship in the )akta tradition
Yoni Li^ Li^ga ga The symbol of divine energy of creation; the clitoris
Yonima98ala vide Sarvasiddhiprada Sarvasiddhiprada
Cakra
Yoni Mudr1 Mudr1 as one of the Mudr1 Bandha-s vide also Laya Siddhi Yoga The foetus
Yonimukta A person released from being born again
Yonip27ha A symbol of creation as attribute of the
Dev2 in the Yoni form
vide also P27ha, K1mar3pa P27ha
Yuga Cosmic age of the world There are four Yuga-s, viz. Satya (or K4ta), Tret1, Dv1para and Kali, comprising an aggregate of 4,320,000 years which constitute a Mah1 Yuga. From Satya Yuga down to Kali Yuga there is a step-by-step deterioration in the condition of the world. Yuga-s are in fact the material macrocosmic expression of the age of a human being, i.e. Brahm198a vs. Pi98198a.
Yuktatrive92 !j61 Cakra as a place of upper intersection of the three main N182-s vide also Pray1ga A name for
197
The author
Octavian Sarbatoare was born in Romania in 1952. Since 1987 he has been living in Australia. He completed his BA in Philosophy and Studies in Religion, BA (Honours) in Studies in Religion, Master of Arts with Merit (PACS), all at the University of Sydney. He holds a PhD (Honorary Degree) as well. Octavian is the author of various books of scholarly research and fiction, both in English and Romanian.
Sarbatoare Publications