abhaṅga

Abhimanyu

A central character in the Indian epic Mahābhārata, son of Arjuna, the Pāṇḍava prince, and Subhadrā, Lord Kṛṣṇa's sister. Famed for his valiant heart and martial skills, Abhimanyu plays a crucial role in the Kurukṣetra war, where he meets a heroic end in the confusing cakravyūha, embodying the virtues of bravery and sacrifice.

abhiṣekam

Abhiṣekam is a bathing ritual in which five different substances (pañcāmṛta, milk, yoghurt, ghī, honey and sugar) are poured over a deity. These substances symbolise the five elements of our physical nature and the emotional qualities of our lower nature. Through the grace of the deities, these elements, our five senses, and the mind are purified and transformed in a positive way.

Absolute

In the realms of Indian philosophy and spirituality, this concept refers to the supreme, unchanging reality, often equated with Brahman in Hindu philosophy. It represents the transcendent entity beyond the perceptible universe, underlying the essence of all being.

ācmanīyam

A Hindu ritual involving the drinking of water for purification, typically performed before religious ceremonies, meditations, or yajña. It symbolises spiritual cleansing and preparation for sacred engagement.

ācārya

A spiritual teacher or guide, particularly in Indian philosophical schools and spiritual traditions. The ācārya is revered for imparting wisdom, guiding disciples on the path of dharma (righteousness), and often contributing scholarly works on theology and philosophy.

Acyuta

A Sanskrit term meaning 'imperishable' or 'infallible', often used as a title or epithet for Lord Viṣṇu or Kṛṣṇa, referring to His divine nature and His eternal, unchanging presence.

adharma

The antithesis of dharma, representing unrighteousness, injustice, or unnatural conduct that goes against cosmic or social order. In Hindu philosophy, adharma disrupts harmony and leads to chaos and suffering.

adhibhautika

Pertaining to the physical or material realm, this term refers to pain or suffering that arises from external objects or entities in the natural world. It is one of the three types of afflictions that disturb human life, according to Hindu philosophy.

adhidaivika

Refers to the reality of the cosmic deity. This term also refers to suffering caused by divine or supernatural forces, often understood as events beyond human control, such as natural disasters or celestial phenomena. It is considered one of the three main forms of duḥkha (suffering) in Hindu thought.

Ādiśeṣa

The divine, thousand-headed serpent in Hindu mythology, often depicted as a couch or canopy for the god Viṣṇu. Ādiśeṣa represents eternal consciousness and is associated with balance and resilience in the cosmos.

adhyātmika

Relating to the spiritual or inner self, this term also denotes pain or suffering that originates from within oneself, such as psychological distress or illness. It is one of the three types of suffering described in Hindu philosophy.

Ādi Śaṅkarācārya

The revered Indian philosopher and theologian, founder of the Advaita Vedānta school of non-dualism. He is famous for his commentaries on the Brahma-sūtra, Upaniṣads and the Bhagavad Gītā, which significantly influenced Hindu thought and practices.

Aditi

A Vedic deity, mother of the devas and the twelve Ādityas, including Lord Sūrya (the Sun). She symbolises infinitude, abundance, and freedom, and is often associated with cosmic expansion and the nurturing aspect of existence.

Ādityas

A group of celestial deities in Vedic literature, often numbering twelve, who represent various cosmic principles and aspects of the sun. They are the sons of Aditi and Kaśyapa, symbolising cosmic order and universal laws.

Advaita

A school of Hindu philosophy often associated with Śaṅkarācārya, advocating non-dualism. It posits that the individual soul (ātmā) and the non-dual aspect of the supreme reality, devoid of form or attributes (Brahman), are one and the same, emphasising the illusory nature of any duality.

Advaitic

Pertaining to or characteristic of Advaita philosophy. Advaitic thought emphasises the direct understanding of the oneness between ātmā (the self) and Brahman (the ultimate reality), often through contemplative and yogic practices.

Advaitins

Followers or practitioners of Advaita philosophy. They adhere to the non-dualistic interpretation of Vedānta, asserting that all plurality and differentiation are illusory manifestations of the singular Brahman.

Agnideva

The fire deity in Hinduism, one of the most prominent figures in the Ṛg Veda. He symbolises the principle of transformation and is central to various rituals, especially sacrifices, where he carries offerings to other deities.

Agniśvātta

Referring to a class of pitṛs (ancestral spirits) in Hindu cosmology, believed to reside in the atmosphere between heaven and earth. They are associated with the 'intermediate region' and are often invoked in ancestral rites.

ahiṁsā

The principle of non-violence towards all living beings. Fundamental in many Indian religious and philosophical traditions, it advocates for peaceful coexistence and compassion, forming the basis of ethical conduct.

Airāvata

The white elephant who carries the Hindu god Indra. Known for his immense size and strength, Airāvata is also called 'abhra-mataṅga', meaning 'elephant of the clouds', and symbolises the wealth and prosperity of Indra's heaven.

aiśvarya

The concept of divine sovereignty and spiritual supremacy in Hindu philosophy. It refers to the extraordinary powers or attributes of God, such as omnipotence, omniscience, dominion, and the ability to bestow grace upon devotees.

Ajāmila

A character from ancient Hindu narratives, highlighted in the Bhāgavata Purāṇa, known for his dramatic spiritual redemption. Despite leading a sinful life, his utterance of the name 'Nārāyaṇa' on his deathbed granted him a second chance at righteousness, illustrating the power of divine grace and the sanctity of the Lord's name.

ajapa

A spiritual practice in Hindu and yogic traditions, referring to the continuous repetition or mental recitation of a mantra or name of a deity. This is the stage when the repetition becomes automatic; done unconsciously or without explicit effort, akin to the natural process of breathing.

ājñā

In yogic tradition, 'ājñā' also denotes the sixth primary chakra, the 'third eye' center of intuition and foresight, located between the eyebrows.

ākāśa

A Sanskrit term denoting the subtle element of ether or space, one of the five fundamental elements in Hindu cosmology and Ayurveda. It is the medium of sound and the essence of spaciousness, encompassing all existence. Paramahamsa has also referred to it as the void.

Akāśavāṇi

Literally meaning 'voice from the sky,' it traditionally refers to divine oracles or celestial prophecies heard from the heavens.

Akbar

A prominent Mughal Emperor (1542-1605) known for his expansive empire, administrative prowess, and notably, his policy of religious tolerance and interest in various religious and philosophical discussions, epitomising a syncretic Indo-Islamic culture.

Akrūra

A character in the Mahābhārata and other ancient scriptures, known as a nobleman of the Yadava clan and an uncle to Kṛṣṇa and Balarāma. He played a significant role in events leading up to the Kurukṣetra War, often depicted as a devotee and confidant of Lord Kṛṣṇa.

Akṣara Brahmā Yoga

Name of the eighth chapter of the Bhagavad Gītā, describing the eternal, indestructible nature of the Self (ātmā) and the eternal abode, Vaikuṇṭha.

akṣauhiṇī

An ancient Indian term for a large military unit, comprising various arms of an army, including infantry, chariots, elephants, and cavalry, systematically arranged. Its use is prominent in texts like the Mahābhārata, symbolising the vastness and organisation of epic battles.

Akṣayapātra

A divine vessel in Hindu tradition, bestowed upon the Pāṇḍavas by Lord Surya, which provided an unending supply of food daily. It is a symbol of eternal abundance and divine grace in sustenance.

Āḻvār

The 12 revered poet-saints from southern India who composed devotional songs celebrating the Vaiṣṇava deities. Their works, rich in devotional content, form a significant part of Tamil literature and continue to influence the spiritual practices of devotees.

Amarnāth

An important pilgrimage destination situated in Jammu and Kaśmīr, renowned for the sacred Amarnāth cave. Devotees undertake a challenging journey to reach this holy site, where naturally formed ice stalagmites are worshipped as representations of Lord Śiva.

Ambarīṣa

A noble king mentioned in the ancient Hindu scriptures, known for his devout adherence to dharma and deep devotion to Lord Viṣṇu. His life stories, found in texts like the Bhāgavata Purāṇa, often highlight the protective power of steadfast devotion.

amṛta

The sacred nectar of immortality, central to the event of 'samudra-manthana' (the churning of the ocean) in Hindu tradition. Sought by both devas and Asuras, it represents the quest for spiritual enlightenment and eternal life.

Amśumana

A figure known for his piety in Hindu traditions, remembered for his significant role in the descent of the River Gaṅgā to earth.

Anala

Representing the element of fire, Anala is one of the Vasus, or elemental deities, embodying the cosmic principle of transformation and life energy.

ānanda

Denoting divine bliss, ānanda is attributed as the inherent nature of both the ātmā as well as Bhagavān. Some traditions within sanātana-dharma consider the attainment of the ātmā's ānanda as the supreme spiritual attainment, however prema, sublime divine love, is the vastly superior state and at the pinnacle of all experience.

, the joy of spiritual realisation and union with the divine, transcending the temporary nature of worldly happiness.

Ananta-śeṣa

The cosmic serpent in Hindu cosmology, depicted as holding the universes on his hoods and eternally singing Lord Viṣṇu's praises. He represents the eternal divine that persists even after cosmic dissolution.

Ananta-vijaya

The sacred conch of Yudhiṣṭhira in the Mahābhārata, associated with instilling courage and signalling victory.

ananyā

Derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'having no other,' often used in spiritual contexts to denote singular devotion or focus. It reflects a state of complete absorption or undistracted dedication in one's spiritual practice or to a deity.

ananya-bhakta

Refers to a devotee who practices exclusive devotion, without any diversion, to a single deity or divine principle. This form of devotion is characterised by unwavering faith and single-minded love for the divine.

ananyā-bhakti

The concept of undivided, absolute devotion in Hindu philosophy. It is the practice of dedicating all actions and thoughts solely to one's chosen deity or divine principle, seeking union or favour with no distractions or alternative motives.

Anaśuya

Known as a model of chastity and devotion in Hindu tradition, she was the wife of the sage Atri and mother of Dattātreya (the combined incarnation of Brahmā, Viṣṇu, and Śiva). Her name, meaning devoid of envy or jealousy, is synonymous with selfless service and virtuous qualities.

Aṅgiras

One of the saptarṣis, associated with the composition of Vedic hymns and fathering a lineage of spiritually inclined scholars, contributing to the preservation and propagation of the Vedic tradition.

Aniruddha

A prince of the Vṛṣṇi dynasty, grandson of Kṛṣṇa, and son of Pradyumna. Known for his exploits in battle and tales of romantic conquests, he is a figure celebrated in various Hindu narratives.

antara-jyoti

Refers to the inner divine light in individuals, symbolising our spiritual identity, consciousness, and the soul's illumination. It is a focal point in various yogic and spiritual practices aiming at ātma-jñāna (self-realisation).

antarātmā

The inner Self or soul that resides within all beings, beyond the gross physical and subtle mental sheaths. In various darśanas (philosophical systems), the realisation of the antarātmā is pivotal for achieving mokṣa (liberation).

apāna

One of the vital prāṇas (life energies) within the body in Hindu and yogic philosophy, responsible for downward and outward energy movement.

aparā-prakṛti

In Hindu philosophy, particularly in the Bhagavad Gītā (see BG 7.4), it refers to the lower or material nature of reality, consisting of 8 elements (earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind, intellect and ego) , in contrast to the higher or spiritual nature (parā-prakṛti).

aparā-bhakti

Denotes the initial stages of devotion in spiritual practice, considered a stepping stone towards parā-bhakti, the higher form of devotion.

Āpatbāndhava

Literally meaning 'friend in times of adversity,' it refers to the divine as a protector during challenges, emphasising the relationship between the devotee and the deity as that of close kinship, particularly during hardships.

āpsara

Celestial nymphs in Hindu cosmology, known for their extraordinary beauty and ability in dance and music, often serving in the courts of deities and sometimes sent to earth to influence the course of events in human realms.

Ardhanārīśvara

A composite form of Śiva and his consort Pārvatī, symbolising the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies of the universe and the philosophical principle that duality originates from a singular reality.

arghyam

An offering in Hindu worship, typically water mixed with auspicious substances, presented with both hands as a gesture of devotion, especially during pūjās or rituals like sandhyā-vandana. It symbolises respect, veneration, and submission to the divine.

Arjuna

A central character in the Mahābhārata, the third of the Pāṇḍava brothers, renowned for his valour, honesty, and dedication to dharma. He is the recipient of the divine discourse of the Bhagavad Gītā, delivered by Lord Kṛṣṇa on the battlefield of Kurukṣetra.

Arjuna Viśāda Yoga

The first chapter of the Bhagavad Gītā, it depicts the moral dilemma and profound despondency faced by Arjuna on the battlefield. It sets the stage for the subsequent spiritual discourse and introduces the concept of yoga as a path to dharma and God-realisation.

ārta

A term referring to a person in a state of distress or suffering. In spiritual contexts, it denotes an individual who seeks solace or liberation from difficulties through earnest prayer and devotion to the divine.

arta-bhakti

A form of devotion that arises from anguish or distress. It refers to the practice of turning to divine worship during crises, emphasising the role of the divine as a refuge.

arthārtī

Refers to a seeker who approaches the divine for the fulfillment of material desires or needs, one of the four types of devotees identified in the Bhagavad Gītā. This term highlights a stage in spiritual evolution where devotion is motivated by personal gain.

ārthārti-bhakti

A form of devotion characterised by prayers and worship conducted with the specific aim of material gain or relief from problems.

Aryaman

A Vedic deity symbolising kindness, hospitality, and societal harmony. He is invoked in the Ṛgveda and other Vedic literature, often associated with kinship and the sun, representing noble qualities and social functions.

āsana

At its root, it signifies a 'seat' or the act of sitting. In yoga, 'āsana' traditionally refers to one's seated position, used in meditation and prayer, indicating a physical posture conducive to sustained comfort for spiritual practices. Over time, its usage expanded in yoga to denote various physical postures beyond just sitting, aimed at enhancing health, focus, and energy control. Additionally, 'āsana' also refers to the mat or special cloth used as a seat during such practices, symbolising a dedicated space for spiritual development.

āśrāma

Denotes a stage of life in Hindu dharma or a hermitage. In the societal context, it refers to the four stages of life (brahmacarya, gṛhastha, vānaprastha, sannyāsa), each with specific duties. As a place, it's a spiritual retreat or hermitage for meditation, study, and simple living.

aṣṭāṅga-yoga

Literally meaning 'eight-limbed yoga,' outlined by Patañjali in the Yoga-sūtras. It comprises eight spiritual practices: yama, niyama, āsana, prāṇāyāma, pratyāhāra, dhāraṇā, dhyāna, and samādhi, leading to Self-realisation.

Aśvatthāma

A complex character in the Mahābhārata, son of Dronācārya, known for his fierce temper and actions that led to tragic outcomes in the Kurukṣetra war. His life represents the consequences of uncontrolled rage and adherence to misguided principles.

aśvatthā

The sacred fig tree (Ficus religiosa) in Hindu tradition, symbolising eternal life because of its extensive lifespan and roots. It's often used as a metaphor for the material world in scriptures, representing eternal change and the divine's manifestation in nature.

Aśvin-kumāras

Twin Vedic deities, known for their association with health and dawn, representing the shining light of sunrise and the bringing of medical relief. They are celebrated in hymns for their acts of heroism and benevolence.

asura

In Hindu cosmology, asuras are beings known for their power and antagonism toward the devas (gods). While often considered malevolent, certain asuras are also portrayed with positive qualities in various scriptures, such as Vṛtāsxx.

asuric

An adjective describing qualities or actions resembling those of asuras, often implying selfishness, materialism, violence, deceit, and a disregard for dharma. It contrasts with 'sāttvic' and 'daivic' traits that are aligned with goodness, purity, and higher spiritual principles.

atha

A Sanskrit term meaning 'now', 'then', or 'subsequently', often used at the beginning of ancient texts, indicating a commencement or continuation. In a spiritual context, it implies readiness and the auspicious beginning of a spiritual study or practice.

Atharva Veda

The fourth Veda, distinct from the other three Vedas (Ṛg, Sāma, Yajur), containing hymns, mantras, and incantations for various rituals, along with philosophical knowledge.

ātmā

Referring to the soul or the true Self, the eternal essence of an individual that transcends worldly identities and the cycle of birth and death.

ātma-jñāna

Translated as 'self-knowledge' or 'self-realisation,' it is the profound, direct understanding of one's true nature as ātmā, which is eternal and indivisible. This realisation is the goal of many spiritual paths and practices in Hindu philosophy.

Atma Kriya Yoga

Atma Kriya Yoga is a full yogic system infused with bhakti, aimed at God-realisation. that includes meditation, as well as energetic and physical yogic exercises. The practice is well-rounded and yet flexible enough to incorporate into a busy lifestyle.

Atri

One of the ancient Hindu sages (ṛṣis), considered a mind-born son of Brahmā and one of the saptarṣis. He is credited with composing numerous hymns in the Ṛg Veda. Atri is revered for his wisdom and piety, and his lineage (gotra) is one of the most ancient and respected.

avatāra

A concept in Hinduism referring to the descent of the divine into the earthly realm, typically through a physical form, to restore dharma (cosmic order) and provide guidance to humanity. Notable avatāras include Rāma and Kṛṣṇa, among others.

avidyā

Literally meaning 'ignorance' or 'misunderstanding,' it is the lack of true knowledge or understanding, which leads to a mistaken perception of reality, as per various Indian philosophies. In Vedānta and Yoga philosophies, overcoming avidyā is essential for achieving mokṣa (liberation).

Ayodhyā

An ancient city regarded as one of the seven sacred cities of India, known as the birthplace of Lord Rāma (the hero of the epic Rāmāyaṇa) and a center of culture and religion for thousands of years.

Ayurveda

A traditional Indian system of medicine and holistic healing, emphasising balance in bodily systems. It uses diet, herbal treatments, and yogic breathing techniques to maintain and restore health.