abhaṅga

Abhimanyu

Personaje central de la epopeya india Mahābhārata, hijo de Arjuna, príncipe Pāṇḍava, y Subhadrā, hermana del Señor Kṛṣṇa. Famoso por su valiente Herz y sus habilidades marciales, Abhimanyu desempeña un papel crucial en la guerra de Kurukṣetra, donde encuentra un final heroico en el confuso cakravyūha, encarnando las virtudes de la valentía y el sacrificio.

abhiṣekam

Abhiṣekam es un ritual de baño en el que se vierten cinco sustancias diferentes (pañcāmṛta, leche, yogur, ghī, miel y azúcar) sobre una deidad. Estas sustancias simbolizan los cinco elementos de nuestra naturaleza física y las cualidades emocionales de nuestra naturaleza inferior. A través de la Gnade de las deidades, estos elementos, nuestros cinco sentidos y la mente se purifican y transforman de manera positiva.

Absoluto

En los ámbitos de la filosofía y la Spiritualität indias, este concepto se refiere a la realidad suprema e inmutable, a menudo equiparada con Brahman en la filosofía hindú. Representa la entidad trascendente más allá del universo perceptible, subyacente a la esencia de todo ser.

ācmanīyam

Ritual hindú que consiste en beber agua para purificarse, y que suele realizarse antes de ceremonias religiosas, meditaciones o  yajña. Simboliza la limpieza Spirituell y la preparación para el compromiso sagrado.

ācārya

Maestro o guía Spirituell, especialmente en las escuelas filosóficas y tradiciones Spirituelles indias. El ācārya es venerado por impartir Weisheit, guiar a los discípulos por el Weg del dharma (rectitud) y, a menudo, contribuir con obras académicas sobre teología y filosofía.

Acyuta

Término sánscrito que significa «imperdible» o «infalible», utilizado a menudo como título o epíteto para el Señor Viṣṇu o Kṛṣṇa, en referencia a su naturaleza divina y su presencia eterna e inmutable.

adharma

La antítesis de  dharma, que representa la inmoralidad, la injusticia o la conducta antinatural que va en contra del orden cósmico o social. En la filosofía hindú,  adharma perturba la armonía y conduce al caos y al sufrimiento.

adhibhautika

Relativo al ámbito físico o material, este término se refiere al dolor o sufrimiento que proviene de objetos o entidades externas del mundo natural. Es uno de los tres tipos de aflicciones que perturban la vida humana, según la filosofía hindú.

adhidaivika

Se refiere a la realidad de la deidad cósmica. Este término también se refiere al sufrimiento causado por fuerzas divinas o sobrenaturales, a menudo entendidas como acontecimientos que escapan al control humano, como desastres naturales o fenómenos celestes. Se considera una de las tres formas principales de  duḥkha (sufrimiento) en el pensamiento hindú.

Ādiśeṣa

La serpiente divina de mil cabezas de la mitología hindú, a menudo representada como un sofá o un dosel para el dios Viṣṇu. Ādiśeṣa representa la conciencia eterna y se asocia con el equilibrio y la resistencia en el cosmos.

adhyātmika

En relación con el yo Spirituell o interno, este término también denota el dolor o el sufrimiento que se origina en el interior de uno mismo, como la angustia psicológica o la enfermedad. Es uno de los tres tipos de sufrimiento descritos en la filosofía hindú.

Ādi Śaṅkarācārya

El venerado filósofo y teólogo indio, fundador de la escuela Advaita Vedānta del no dualismo. Es famoso por sus comentarios sobre el Brahma-sūtra, Upaniṣads y el Bhagavad Gītā, que influyeron significativamente en el pensamiento y las prácticas hindúes.

Aditi

Una deidad védica, madre de los devas y de los doce Ādityas, incluido el Señor Sūrya (el Sol). Simboliza la infinitud, la abundancia y la libertad, y a menudo se la asocia con la expansión cósmica y el aspecto nutritivo de la existencia.

Ādityas

Grupo de deidades celestiales de la literatura védica, a menudo en número de doce, que representan diversos principios cósmicos y aspectos del sol. Son los hijos de Aditi y Kaśyapa, y simbolizan el orden cósmico y las leyes universales.

Advaita

Escuela de filosofía hindú a menudo asociada con Śaṅkarācārya, que defiende el no dualismo. Postula que el Seele individual (ātmā) y el aspecto no dual de la realidad suprema, desprovisto de forma o atributos (Brahman), son uno y lo mismo, y hace hincapié en la naturaleza ilusoria de cualquier dualidad.

advaitico

Relativo o característico de la filosofía Advaita. El pensamiento advaitico hace hincapié en la comprensión directa de la unidad entre  ātmā (el yo) y Brahman (la realidad última), a menudo a través de prácticas contemplativas y yóguicas .

Advaitins

Seguidores o practicantes de la filosofía Advaita. Se adhieren a la interpretación no dualista del Vedānta, afirmando que toda pluralidad y diferenciación son manifestaciones ilusorias del Brahman singular.

Agnideva

La deidad del fuego en el hinduismo, una de las figuras más destacadas del  Ṛg Veda. Simboliza el principio de la transAusbildung y es fundamental en diversos rituales, especialmente en los sacrificios, donde lleva ofrendas a otras deidades.

Agniśvātta

En referencia a una clase de  pitṛs (espíritus ancestrales) en la cosmología hindú, que se cree que residen en la atmósfera entre el cielo y la tierra. Se les asocia con la «región intermedia» y a menudo se les invoca en los ritos ancestrales.

ahiṁsā

El principio de la no violencia hacia todos los seres vivos. Fundamental en muchas tradiciones religiosas y filosóficas indias, aboga por la coexistencia pacífica y la compasión, y constituye la base de la conducta ética.

Airāvata

El elefante blanco que transporta al dios hindú Indra. Conocido por su inmenso tamaño y fuerza, Airāvata también se llama «abhra-mataṅga», que significa «elefante de las nubes», y simboliza la riqueza y la prosperidad del cielo de Indra.

aiśvarya

El concepto de soberanía divina y supremacía Spirituell en la filosofía hindú. Se refiere a los poderes o atributos extraordinarios de Dios, tales como la omnipotencia, la omnisciencia, la soberanía y la capacidad de otorgar Gnade a los devotos.

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 natur 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 superiour 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.