Sa
see also Nir
Sa in Hindi language is a prefix to denote "with".
Sa-Aakaar - Aakaar means form, so Sa-Aakaar means "with form".
When Bhagavaan takes Avataa and appears assuming some kind of form, it
is called His Sa-Aakaar Roop.
Sa-Ashtaang see Saashtaang
Sa-Gun - Gun means attributes, so Sa-Gun means "with attributes".
When Bhagavaan takes Avataar and appears assuming some kind of form, it is
called His Sa-Gun Roop.
Saadhak
(1) Who does Saadhanaa, he is called Saadhak. (2) The person
working to achieve some goal.
Saadhanaa
(1) Continuous systematic strict discipline to achieve anything.
(2) Saadhanaa is not just Meditation, it is the path for salvation. It
is the process of surrendering to and achieving of god. It consists of
breathing techniques, Nyaas, chanting of Mantra, chanting of Omkaar of
different types and the rhythm and tones. There are different stages of
achievement at all stages and the contents keep changing progressively.
Depending on The stages of awakening of the Kundalinee. Thus Saadhanaa
is more complete and integrated term, as compared to Meditation, or
chanting of Mantra.
Saadhu
(1) Virtuous. (2) Who doesn't care of worldly things, treats all alike
with noble feelings. (3) Saadhus are religious mendicants who have to be
initiated to get into one of the four Aashram called Sanyaas Aashram.
(4) In Sanskrit language, a Saadhu means.. a patient one, or the one who has
mastered his Ahankaar (ego).
Also there
are certain rules or Niyam to follow, which are by strict order, for
example, a Saadhu cannot have sex, a Saadhu cannot eat certain types of
food like onions, a Saadhu cannot wear a ceremonial thread
(Upanayan) and so on. So effectively
a Sanyaasee can be called a Saadhu.
Saadhwee
Feminine of Saadhu, good, virtuous, pure.
Saagar
Sea, or Ocean. It has several other names - Samudra, Udadhi, Varunaalaya
(because Varun lives there).
Saagar Manthan
Saakaar
see also Nir-Aakaar
Sa-Aakaar - means with a definite form.
Saalokya
see also Saameepya,
Saaroopya, Saayujya
One of the four types of Moksh. This is the combination of two words - Sa and
Lok. It means "in the same world"; or living in the same world.
People attain Saalokya of Soorya or Vishnu after certain Vrat or fasts - this
means that they will live in the same Lok as of Soorya's or Vishnu's. The four
types of Moksh are - (1) Saalokya, that is living in the same Lok or regin, or
region with the Dev whom one worshipped; (2) Saameepya, being near the Dev; (3)
Saaroopya, receiving the same form or possessing the same Aishwarya (Divine
qualities) as of Dev and (4) Saayujya, becoming one with the Dev worshipped.
Saam, Daam, Dand, Bhed Policies
These policies are advised for a king to use for persuasion, but other people also
can use them as needed. (1) Saam means by negotiation or good counseling. (2) Daam
means by giving money or tempting somebody (incentives of various sorts). (3) Dand
means by punishing or threatening somebody. (4) Bhed means divide and rule or by
diplomacy or sowing dissention in his ranks.
Saam Ved
see
Ved, Saam
Saamagree
Saamagree is a mixture of a few things which are used to offer Aahuti in
Havan (in sacred fire). It may include - white sesame seeds, Ghee, sugar,
rice, barley, some sweet smelling material.
Saameepya
see also Saalokya, Saaroopya, Saayujya
(1) Closeness. (2) Being near to somebody. (3) Proximity.
(4) One of the four types of Moksh in which a person lives with God after his
death - (1) Saalokya, that is living in the same Lok or regin, or region with
the Dev whom one worshipped; (2) Saameepya, being near the Dev; (3) Saaroopya,
receiving the same form or possessing the same Aishwarya (Divine qualities) as
of Dev and (4) Saayujya, becoming one with the Dev worshipped.
Saankhya
Saaraswat
(1) Name of people living on the banks of Saraswatee River. (2) One of the
five classes of North Indian Braahman.
Saarathee
Charioteer.
Saaroopya
see also Saalokya, Saameepya, Saayujya
(1) One of four types of Moksh. (2) Conformity with God. This is the combination
of two words - Sa and Roop. It means "being as the same form". People attain
Saaroopya of Soorya or Vishnu after certain Vrat or fasts - this means that they will
become like Soorya or Vishnu. The four types of Moksh are - (1) Saalokya, that is
living in the same Lok or regin, or region with the Dev whom one worshipped; (2)
Saameepya, being near the Dev; (3) Saaroopya, receiving the same form or possessing
the same Aishwarya (Divine qualities) as of Dev and (4) Saayujya, becoming one with
the Dev worshipped.
Saashtaang Pranaam
see also Pranaam
Sa+asht+ang. Sa means "with", Asht means "eight", and Ang means
"parts". Pranaam means "greeting with respect". So Saashtaang
Pranaam means "Greeting with respect with eight body limbs". The eight
body limbs are - 2 hands, 2 knees, chest, head, and 2 feet. Some say that it is
done by : hand, feet, knees, chest, head, eyes, heart, speech. This is done in
normally lying in on the stomach position, by joining both palms together towards
Bhagavaan and saying, "I greet thee with pure heart".
Saatwik
One of the three Gun - Saatwik, Raajas and Taamas. Pure. This word may be used
in several contexts - Saatwik food, Saatwik ideas, Saatwik feelings, Saatwik
living, Saatwik nature etc.
Saavitra
Related to Sun.
Saavitree
see also Gaayatree
(1) Verse 3-62-10 of Rig Ved, more popularly known as Gaayatree Mantra because of
its meter.
Saayujya
Union. One of four types of Moksh - complete identification with God -
(1) Saalokya, that is living in the same Lok or region, or region with the Dev
whom one has worshipped; (2) Saameepya, being near the Dev; (3) Saaroopya,
receiving the same form or possessing the same Aishwarya (Divine qualities)
as of Dev and (4) Saayujya, becoming one with the Dev worshipped.
Sabar Tantra
Sabhaa
(1) Assembly. (2) Meeting. (3) Society.
Sabzee
see Vegetables
Sachchidaanand
Sat + Chit + Aanand = Sachchidaanand. One who is the embodiment of Sat
(truth), Chit (consciousness) and Aanand (joy or bliss), means God.
Sacred Objects
Sacred Thread
see Yagyopaveet
Sacrifice
(1) Leaving or abandoning something. It may be anything from comfort to any tangible
thing. (2) Yagya.
Sadguru
see Guru
Sahastraar Chakra
see Chakra
Sahastrabaahu
(1) Another name of Shiv. (2) King of Haihaya Vansh, originally named as
Arjun, killed by Parashuraam.
Sakat Bhedan
Samaadhi
Samakaaleen
During the same period.
Samaas
Samaya
see also
Measurement of Time
(1) Time. (2) see Tantra
Sambhram
Agitation.
Samidhaa
Sacrificial firewood - small size sticks (twigs type - 10"-12"
long) for doing Havan. All woods are
not used for this purpose; only certain kinds of woods are used, normally
of mango tree.
Sampann
Completed.
Samput
(1) Lips. Adhar. (2) This is an auspicious Dohaa which is read after
every Chaupaaee (normally four) plus Dohaa while reading Tulasee's Raam
Charit Maanas. There are several Dohaa for this purpose, but mostly 2-3
Dohaa are very common for this purpose. 1 - Mangal Bhavan Amangal Haaree,
Dravahu So Dasharath Ajir Bihaaree. 2. Mangal Bhavan Amangal Haaree,
Umaa Sahit Jehi Japat Puraaree.
Samudra
(1) Sea or Ocean. (2) Samudra Devtaa (sea god), or Saagar, or
Iraavat
Samvaad Sookt
Samvaad Sookt is in the form of a dialog between Yam and Yamee. It is
found in Rig Ved and is generally considered as a Sookt to bring harmony
between couples. Hom are also performed to improve the relationship
between husband and wife.
Samvartak
Samvartak is the name of the Agni which appears just before the Pralaya
(deluge) and towards the end of the 1,000 years o Kali Yug.
Samvat
see Samvatsar
Samvat is the short form of Samvatsar, and Samvatsar means a year.
Vatsar also means one year. So all, Vatsar, Samvatsar and Samvat, mean
the same thing - one year.
Samvatsar see also
Baarhaspatya Measurement
Samvedan-sheelataa
Empathy.
Sanaatan
see also Shaashwat
Ever living. Eternal. Which has no beginning and no end. Sanaatan is a Vaidik
term, which means "eternal, perpetual, permanent, everlasting' primeval,
ancient" etc according to MW SED dictionary. Sanaatan is derived from the root
"San". If Sanaatan is garbage, all those words made from the same root must
be associated with garbage, such as Santaan, Sant, etc. Since "Sanaatan"
is used in Vaidik texts, its original meanings should be derived from there, where this
word and its cognates were used in the sense of "ancient, old, ever, always"
etc. Hence, even during the Vaidik period, this term was used for the earliest as well
as the eternal element in Vaidik philosophy. Many cognates of this term clarify that
this term was associated with the earliest spiritual source of everything, i.e, pure soul.
Sanaatan Kaal - means from the very beginning (when the beginning point is not known).
Sanaatan Purush - The earliest man - God, Hari, Bhagavaan
Sanaatan Dharm - The earliest Dharm (when the earliest time point is not known) - Hindu
Dharm.
Sandhi
Sandhi is the rule of Sanskrit grammar by which the final and the initial syllables of two
words are collated, such as if Sandhyaa and Ansh have to be collated, it will
become Sandhyaansh.
Sandhyaa
Sandhyaansh
see Sandhyaa
Sangam
see also Prayaag
Sangam means "meeting". Sangam is also called the place where two
rives meet (as Prayaag). Thus there may be many Sangam places. But if somebody
says "Sangam", normally it is understood as Ilaahaabaad (UP) where Gangaa
and Yamunaa rivers meet.
Sangeet
Sanhitaa
Most commonly, Sanhitaa means Ved,
such as Rig Ved Sanhitaa means Rig Ved - in fact any methodical treatise on a
subject, such as "Charak Sanhitaa" on medicine, Sushrut Sanhitaa"
on surgery is called Sanhitaa.
Sanjeevanee
Which can put life in a dead body. It may be a Vidyaa (knowledge - Brihaspati's
son Kach went to learn this Vidyaa from Shukraachaarya Jee), or it may be a herb
(Vaidya Sushen asked somebody to bring Sanjeevanee herb from Himaalaya to revive
Lakshman Jee in Raam-Raavan war). Its use - "This has worked like a Sanjeevanee
for him / or for his business." means that "that particular thing has
revived his business."
Sankalp
Vow, intention. Taking vow to do something. It is common to take Sankalp (vow)
while donating something to a Braahman; or while doing some religious work, such
as vowing for fasting etc.
Sankarshan
Pulling. Since Balaraam, Krishn's elder brother, was pulled from Devakee's womb
to Rohinee's womb, he is called Sankarshan also.
Sankhyaa Pranaalee
Sankraanti
Sansaar
"That which continues without beginning or end". The cycle of ignorance,
desire, action and longing to reap the fruits of one's actions by taking birth.
Sansaptak
Sworn to do some work. In Mahaabhaarat, Sansaptak brothers, they were five like
Paandav, sworn either to kill Arjun or to die in the battlefield. At that time
Susharmaa was the eldest and was the king. When Yudhishthir performed Ashwamedh
Yagya their children came to fight with Arjun - Sooryavarmaa, Ketuvarmaa,
Dhritvarmaa.
Sanskaar
Subtle impressions of one's own past Karm
or actions. The innermost wall of the city of life is constructed by Sanskaar
that holds the seeker's attachments and pleasure-seeking desires.
Sanskrit Language
Santosh
see also Niyam
Contentment.
Sanyaas
see also Vairaagya
It is the Fourth Aashram in a human being's life when he detaches himself from
everything belonging to this world and prepares for meeting Brahm. During this
period, he may worship God, serve the community. They are eleven in number and
all have three eyes Trishool in their hands. Even leaving worldly desires is also
Sanyaas. When one formally takes Sanyaas, he automatically relinquishes his present
Varn to which he belonged. No doubt, there are
variations in the matter of Dand, Shikhaa, and color and shade of his clothes. Just
as Grihasth Dharm has been declining gradually, Sanyaas Aashram is also declining
gradually.
Sanyaasee
Sanyamanee Puree
It is the city of Yam Raaj where he lives. It is on Meru Parvat.
Sapanaa
Dreams.
Sapphire see
Neelam
Sapt Padee
Sapt Rishi
According to Bhaagvat Puraan, there are seven Rishi in every Manvantar (there are
14 Manvantar in one Kalp). In every Manvantar they are different. These Rishi can
be seen as stars in sky also. Their group of seven stars is called Great Bear and
is near Polar star. They always revolve around the Polar star. This Manvantar's
Saptarshi are - Atri, Vashishth, Kashyap, Gautam, Jamadagni, Vishwaamitra, and
Bharadwaaj.
Sapt Shatee
A poem of 700 verses. There are several such poems - (1) "Devee Mahaatmya"
or "Durgaa Saptshatee" in Sanskrit language, as part of Maarkandeya Puraan
in praise of Durgaa. The three others are - (2) "Aarya Saptshatee" by
Govardhanaachaarya, (3) "Gaathaa Saptshatee" by Haal, and (4) Satsaee by
poet Bihaaree Daas Jee, (4) Incidentally, Bhagvad Geetaa also contain 700 Shlok or
verses.
Sarakandaa
Reed. In India, long before, about 60 years before, it was used to
make pens to write with ink on paper, wood etc.
Saralataa
Simplicity.
Saraswatee
Sarg
(1) Creation. The creation is of three types - Saatwik, Raajasik and Taamasik.
(2) Part. It is normally used in reference to the parts of book. When a book is divided
in 6 parts, each part may be called as one Sarg. Then Sarg may be divided in several
chapters.
Sarg, Pratisarg and Manvantar
Sarovar
see also Kund
A pond filled with water. This can be used for taking bath, or to beautify a
garden by planting flowers in it, especially the lotus flowers.
Sarshap
Mustard seeds.
Sarv
(1) All, or Omni, or Infinite, or Universally
(2) It is a prefix also which also means "all". Some of the words with
this prefix are given here. Normally all is used for Bhagavaan (God),
all these words are used in the context of Bhagavaan -
--Sarv-Drik - Who can see everything
--Sarv-Eesh = Sarvesh - Who is the Lord everybody
--Sarv-Gyaanee - Omniscient
--Sarv-Saakshee - Who witnesses everything
--Sarv-Sampann - Who has everything
--Sarv-Shaktimaan - Omnipotent
--Sarv-Vidyaamayee - Soul of all
Vidyaa or in whom all Vidyaa are included
--Sarv-Vyaapee - Omnipresent
Sat
see also Yug
(1) Real or true or Ever-existing - God is supposed to be "Sat Chit Aanand" -
means who is "Absolute Truth", who is "Pure Intellect" and who
is "Pure Joy". (2) Existing. (3) Right, or good in the sense that it
is productive of good and happiness. (4) One of the three
attributes - Sat, Raj, Tam. (5) One of the four Yug - Sat, Tretaa, Dwaapar and Kali.
Satee
Satraayan
Protection of truth and evil path
Satsang
This is a compound word. Sat + Sang. Sat means good and Sang means
company. Thus Satang means company of good people, great souls, holy men.
Sattoo
It is a north Indian poor man's food. Roasted barley flour and roasted red chickpeas
flour are turned into a paste like material by mixing it with water and sugar. It's
effect is cool so people normally eat it in summer afternoons. But its several other
dishes are also popular. It is abundantly eaten in Bihar state and eastern UP.
Satsang
Satsang means the company of and conversation with devotees of Bhagavaan,
saints, sages, Rishi, Muni etc good people. Normally in this type of
Satsang people listen to or talk about God and related matters. Satsang
is done with three three types of people -
(1) With Paramaatmaa - this is called Samaadhi - this is very very
difficult
(2) People - who have seen the Truth - such great people are not seen in
the world
(3) Swaadhyaaya - in the absence of these above two remains only to read
the ideas of those great people, means self-study of their thoughts.
Satya
Truth. In religious sense, truth is the fact which is spoken considering
one's Dharm, not just any truth. If it harms somebody, it should not be
spoken. Say what is true and pleasant, but not what is unpleasantly
true. In fact rare are the words both salutary and pleasing.
Satya Naaraayan
see Naaraayan
Saubhaagya
(1) Good luck. (2) When some woman's husband is alive she is called
Saubhaagyavatee. So being with husband alive is Saubhaagya for a woman.
Savitra
Savitaa. Name of an independent deity in Rig Ved. He is also called Bhag.
Savitra later became the synonym of Soorya (the Sun). He is considered
one of the sons of Aditi, hence an Aaditya. 11 full hymns have been
devoted to Savitra in Rig Ved. The most important Mantra devoted to him
is Gaayatree Mantra. He was also considered Prajaapati, the creator of men
Sea
Saagar - a large bodyof water. There are 7 seas in Bhoor Lok - Ksheer (milk),
Ikshu (sugarcane juice), Kshaar (salty water), Ghrit (ghee or clarified butter),
Dadhya (buttermilk), and Jal (sweet water) - these are the seven oceans.
Season
There are six seasons in India, of two months each. Shishir, Vasant, Greeshm, Varshaa,
Sharad, and Hemant.
Seemantonnayan
The ritual of combing the hair of a pregnant woman in her 6th or 8th month. The
hair is parted in the middle. The significance of this ceremony is unclear. Although
it is counted among 13 Sanskar of life, but it has almost vanished.
Senaa
Seepee
(1) Shells. (2) Mother of Pearl.
Senses
see Indriyaan
Setu
(1) Bridge. (2) Recitation of Mantra "OM" at the beginning of
the Mantra acts like a bridge between the worshipper and the worshipped Devtaa.
In another meaning, the same "OM" works as bridge while starting a
Jap and ending the Jap.
Sevaa Aparaadh
Seven Mothers
They are the seven mothers: Brahmaanee, Maheshwaree, Kaumaaree, Vaishnavee,
Varaahee, Indraanee, Chaamundaa. These seven mothers are the personified
energies (Tejas) of seven deities resident in Durgaa. Another source says
that Brahmaanee came from Brahmaa, Maheshwaree from Shiv, Kaumaree from
Kaarttikeya, Vaishnavee from Vishnu, Varaahee from Varaah (Boar) Avataar of
Vishnu, Indraanee from Indra.
Shaakaahaaree
see also Maansaahaaree
Vegetarian food or a person who does not eat meat and fish etc. His food
includes food made of all kinds of pulses, beans, vegetables, and fruits.
No meat, no chicken, no fish, most times onion and garlic are also not
included. Although people of Vaidik age used to eat meat, but later on,
Vaishnav people (Who worship Vishnu or His Avataar) traditionally required
to be vegetarian, and that is how this vegetarian food began to be called
Vaishnav food.
Shaakhaa
(1) Branch (of a tree or plant). (2) They are different rescensions
(versions) of the Sanhitaa texts showing slight variations among different
families because of the effect of long oral tradition.
Shaakt
see Shaiv below; Shakti
Shaakya
(1) A Bauddh who wears red clothes. Who follows Buddha's teachings, or
Bauddh religion he is called Shaakya. Buddha himself was called
Shaakya Muni. (2) A division of Kshatriya, not related to Shak
people.
Shaalgraam
see also Shankh
Shaali Rice
A kind of rice. It is called Agahanee rice also. It is considered sacred
and is used in most worship.
Shaalivaahan Samvat see Shak Samvat
Shaalmali
(1) Silk cotton tree. 2) The name of a Dweep, Shaalmali Dweep, when Prithvi
was divided in seven parts
Shaant
The tranquil. Quiet. Peaceful.
Shaanti
(1) Peace. (2) This word is often used three times after Om, "Om
Shaanti, Shaanti, Shaanti" seeking peace at three levels - Adhi-bhautik
(in this world), Adhi-daivik (at Devtaa level), and Adhyaatmik (at spiritual
level). By pronouncing thus a Hindu asks God to establish peace throughout.
Shaanti Karm
It is done at the of the rite - sprinkling the holy water on the assembly
with the Mantra "Aum Shaantih, Aum Shaantih, Aum Shaantih". He
who recites the Mantra does so for the benefit of the persons present,
over whose heads he has sprinkled the water.
Shaanti Paath
The famous Shaanti Paath has two versions - one of Yajur Ved (36-17),
and the other one of Atharv Ved (19-9-14). This prayer is to establish
peace in different parts of the Universe and to human beings and nature;
for example when it prays peace in the forest, it hopes that mankind
will preserve the forest and its habitat because this in turn will
preserve the human species. Thus it is an appeal to the human beings to
keep the Universe free of pollution, and disturbance and their minds
calm; and to God to help them do it.
Shaap
Curse.
Shaaradaa
Another name of Saraswatee
Shaashwat see also Sanaatan
Shaashwat is a post-Vaidik word, which means "eternal, constant,
perpetual" etc (p. 1068, MW SED dictionary).
Shaastra
Organized knowledge of some subject.
Shabar
A mountain tribe in South India.
Shabd-Vedhee
Shabd means word or sound, and Vedhee means piercing - which pierces the
sound. Normally this word is used in the reference of arrows. In olden
times the skilled archers could hit their target just by hearing their
sound. There were some mistakes in recognizing the sounds but not in
hitting. Raajaa Dasharath killed Shravan Kumaar like this; Paandu killed
Rishi Kindam like this; and in modern history
Prithveeraaj Chauhaan
killed Jayachand by releasing his Shabd-Vedhee arrow.
Shachee
Indra's wife. Known as Inndraanee also.
Shadaanan
Six-faced, means Kaartikeya.
Shadaj
The first note of North Indian music. There are seven notes in North
Indian music - Shadaj, Rishabh, Gandhaar, Madhyam, Pancham, Dhaivat,
and Nishaad.
Shadopachaar Poojaa
Shailesh
Lord of Himaalaya Montain, means Shiv.
Shaiv
There are three sects in Hinduism - Vaishnav, Shaiv and Shaakt. Vaishnav
people worship Bhagavaan Vishnu and His Avataar (Raam, Krishn etc);
Shaiv people worship Bhagavaan Shiv and his sons - Ganesh and Kaartikeya
and his Gan etc; and Shaakt people worship Shakti (power or Devee -
Kaalee, Bhavaanee, Saraswatee etc). Although all kinds of people are
found everywhere in India, still one may find UP state people mostly
Vaishnav; Southern states people mostly Shaiv; and Bengal and Panjaab
people mostly Shaakt.
Shaiv Darshan
Shak
(1) Name of an Indo-Eeraanian tribe. They attacked India and established
their empire what later came to be known as Afgaanistaan, Paakistaan,
and parts of Gujaraat and Madhya Pradesh of India. King Shaalivaahan and
King Vikramaaditya defeated them.
Shak Samvat
Shak era - which commenced in 78 AD celebrating the defeat of Shak by
Shaalivaahan,
that is why it is called Shaalivaahan Samvat (era) also, but it is more
commonly know as Shak Samvat.
Shakti
Shalabh
(1) Juganoo. (2) Glow worm. (3) Winged insects.
Sham
(1) To be engaged in Bhagavaan's worship. (2) Control on mind. (3)
Calmness. (4) Tranquility. (5) Equanimity. Hindu scriptures
lay great emphasis on Sham which brings internal peace (Shaanti). Sham
brings the happiness to a person and gives him the ability to face
difficulties and unpleasant events in life. It helps people to conquer
anger and to think of the meaning of the life. It makes a person charitable
towards other human beings.
Shaman
Subduing.
Shamashaan Bhoomi (Ghaat)
Cremation ground where dead bodies are burnt.
Shambhu
Bestower of well-being, means Shiv.
Shamee Tree see
also Trees for
other trees
Shani
Shani Amaavasyaa
see Amaavasyaa.
Shani Vaar
Saturday, the 7th day of the week.
Shankaa
(1) Suspicion. (2) Doubt.
Shankar
Who confers bliss - means Shiv.
Shankh
Conch shell.
Shankh Mani
see under Motee
Shanmukh
Six-faced, means Kaartikeya.
Shanno Devee
Name of a Mantra of Rig Ved (10-9-4). This Mantra starts as "Om Shanoo
Devee Rabhishtaye ....."
Sharabh
This is Shiv's Avataar (incarnation) to pacify Vishnu's Narasinh Avataar who
killed Hiranyakshyap. Even after killing his Narasinh Bhagavaan was very angry,
so to pacify Him, Shiv came as Sharabh.
Sharad Ritu
Autumn or Fall season. One of the six seasons o India. These six seasons are -
(1) Vasant (Spring), (2) Greeshm (Summer), (3) Varshaa (Rainy), (4) Sharad (Autumn
or Fall), (5) Hemant (Winter), and (6) Shishir (mild Winter).
Sharanaagat
Who has come in one's refuge - means refugee.
Shareer
see Body
Shashaank
Moon. Chandramaa.
Shashtiapth Poorthi
According to Hindu calendar when one completes his 60 years, on his star birthday,
it is said the planet positions are all exactly in the same positions as when he
was born. people celebrate it as Shashthiapth Poorthi which signifies that the man
has seen 1000 new Moons. It is also believed that the Moon is pleased with this and
helps in attaining Moksh, and the person is no more controlled by Raashi chart (Moon
Chart).
Shastra
see also Astra
Weapons which are used taking in hands, are called Shastra, such as sword.
Shat Rudreeya see
Rudram Chamakam
It is called "Rudra Upanishad" or "Shree Rudram" also.
Shatapath Braahman
see also Braahman
This is a part of Shukla Yajur Ved,
composed by Rishi
Yaagyavalkya, and is perhaps the most important Braahman, but most of it, like
other Braahman, has lost its importance in the present-day world. it is an obscure
ritual manual, 2500 pages long, written 3000 years ago, rarely read in its entirety,
and often dismissed as complex and crazy writings of ritualists.
Shatak see the list of Shatak here in
100 in Sanskrit Literature
Shatak means 100. There are 7 Shatak in Hindi and Sanskrit literature.
Shauch
see also Niyam
(1) Cleanliness. Cleanliness is of two types - internal and external. In
internal cleanliness a persons cleans his ideas and mind and in external
cleanliness he cleans his physical body by soap etc.
(2) Not being involved in Karm is also called Shauch.
Sheeshaa
(1) Glass (not tumbler). Kaanch. (2) Mirror.
Sheetaanshu
Another name of Chandramaa.
Shesh
(1) Remainder. (2) Balance. (3) Short form of Shesh Naag.
Shesh Naag
A thousand-headed serpent whose coil forms Vishnu's bed. It is also said
that he has balanced this Prithvi on his head (Koorm Puraan, verse 48).
This Devtaa, te King of serpents, with a 1,000 hoods, crown on his head,
red like the mango leaf, brown-bearded, brown eyes, wearing yellow silk
cloth, holding lotus, mace, conch and discus, adorned with ornaments,
lying in the ocean of milk (Ksheer Saagar) - Bhavishya Puraan. According
to Koorm Puraan, he supports the world.
Shikaar
(1) Prey (an animal's prey), (2) Victim
Shikaaree
Hunter
Shikhaa
Tuft. A small flock of hair on the crown of head is left untouched when the
hair-cut is done in Dwi-Jaati people. When it becomes long, it is tied in
half knot. Now-a-days it is not in fashion, but many Braahman still keep it
and maintain it.
Shikshaa .
see also Ved
(1) Education. (2) Related to Ved phonetics.
Shikhandee
(1) Peacock. Mayoor, Mor. (2) Name of a son of Rajaa Drupad in
Mahaabhaarat.
Shishir Ritu
One of the six seasons in India. These six seasons are - (1) Vasant (Spring),
(2) Greeshm (Summer), (3) Varshaa (Rainy), (4) Sharad (Autumn or Fall), (5)
Hemant (Winter), and (6) Shishir (mild Winter).
Shiv
Shiv Ashtottar
Shiv Ashtottar is a Stotra which describes Shiv's 100 names and was
recited by Daitya Guru Shukraachaarya when he was in Shiv's stomach.
Shiv-Names
Shiv-Panchaaksharee
Shiv Puraan
see also Puraan
One of the principal 18 Puraan.
Shiv Sookt
Shiv-Worship
Shivaa
Power of Shiv personified as Durgaa, his consort.
Shivaanee
Another name of Paarvatee.
Shodash Upachaar
see also Poojaa
Worshipping with 16 types of materials.
Shok
Sorrow. Grief.
Shoodra
The fourth and the lowest Varn. This is the serving race, it serves all other three
Varn. According to
Bhaagvat Puraan, 11/14, its two main characteristics are -- Serving Braahman,
cow and Devtaa with plain heart; and whatever is earned through that only being
satisfied with that.
Shoonya (Zero)
Shoonyak
see also Praanaayaam
One of the Praanaayaam's four processes - others are
Rechak, Poorak, and
Kumbhak. Neither inhaling breath, nor exhaling it is called Shoonyak position.
Shraaddh
Shraddhaa
(1) There is no single English word for Shraddhaa. Shraddhaa is a mixed
feeling of devotion, faith, satisfaction, and faith with reverence. It
is a Divine quality and is an essential aspect of one's spiritual
practice. Such faith does not rely on the knowledge of scriptures, but
it comes from within. Nobody else can create faith in anything, it has
to be from within. Faith is said to put life in a stone.
(2) Faith. (3) Shraaddh
Shree
(1) Prosperity. (2) Honorific added before the male names, such as
Shree Raam, Shree Krishn. (3) Another name of Lakshmee.
Shree Chakra
Shree Rudra Prashn see
Rudram Chamakam
Shree Rudram see
Rudram Chamakam
It is called "Rudra Upanishad" or "Shat Rudreeyam" or
"Rudram Chamakam"
also.
Shree Rudreeya
see
Rudram Chamakam
Shree Sookt
A Vaidik hymn praising goddess Lakshmee.
Shree Yantra
Shreedhar
Who bears Shree (Lakshmee), means Vishnu..
Shreephal
Bilva fruit.
Shree Rudram see
Rudram and Chamakam
Shreya
see also Preya
According to Kath Upanishad, Shreya is "what is useful" for a man.
Shruti
Another name of Ved.
Shubh
Auspicious. There are many auspicious signs and things used alike are
found in the whole India, such as women's jewelry, alike hairdo, alike
apparel, similar fasts and festivals, use of similar materials on
auspicious occasions, similar ideas about this world and the other
world, greetings, entertaining guests etc etc.
Shuddhataa
(1) Purity. (2) Cleanliness.
Shuddhi
Shuddhi means
cleaning. Shuddhi can be of anything. There are many types of Shuddhi:
taking bath is one type of Shuddhi in which one cleans his body; people
become Shuddh after "Sootak and Paatak" (see below). Not only bodies are
cleaned but materials are also cleaned. For cleaning the materials see
Cleaning
Shukla Paksh
see also Krishn Paksh
Bright fortnight. According to Indian calendar, A month is divided into two
parts - The first 15 days from the 1st day to 15th day, when Moon decreases,
up to Amaavasyaa (New Moon), is called Krishn Paksh; while the other half,
from 16th day to 30th day, when Moon increases, up to Poornimaa (Full Moon),
is called Shukla Paksh.
Shwet Dweep
see Vishnu's Lok
Shyaam
(1) Dark complexion. (2) Dark complexioned, means Krishn.
Siddh
Siddhaant
(1) Principles. (2) Theories. Siddhaant is a Sanskrit philosophical
term that literally means "perfect conclusion". In Vaidik philosophy,
Siddhaant represents a systematic and conclusive explanation of the highest
teaching that leads to spiritual liberation.
Siddhaant Kaumudee
A book written by Bhattojee Deekshit, containing the simplified form of Paanini's
Sanskrit grammar. This book is very popular and is most used by students of Sanskrit
language. It has been abridged as "Laghu Siddhaant Kaumudee" by Varadaraaj.
Siddhaant Shiromani
A book of theorems of mathematics and astronomy by
Bhaaskaraachaarya
(1100-1170 AD). In this book, one chapter is on Algebra. The Arabs came to India to
learn mathematics and the Europeans learnt mathematics from Arabs. For a long time
Westerners considered the Arabs to be the originators of Algebra. It also contains
the seeds of the theory of Calculus.
Siddhi
Siddh Mantra
Signs
see Zodiac Signs
Sikh
Religion
Sin
see Paap
Sindoor
Red vermillion. Indian married women use it in worship, to apply Teekaa on their
forehead and to apply in the parting line of their hair as marks of being married.
Kumkum is made from turmeric or saffron (Kesar) while Sindoor is different from
Kumkum and is made from a different process. Kumkum is waterproof while Sindoor
is not.
Siyaar Singee
Skand
Another name of Shiv's son Kaarttikeya.
Skand Puraan
One of the 18 principal Puraan.
Smaart Karm
Yagya, etc Karm. (Geetaa, 9/16)
Smriti
Smriti, Paraashar
Snaan
Snake see Naag
Sneh
Affection.
Soham
A compound word - Sa + Aham. Sa = He, Aham = I. According to Sandhi rules of
Sanskrit language these two words become Soham after joining each other. It
means "He I am". Unity of the Individual with Supreme Soul.
Soil
Soil is of four colors - white, yellow, red and black. Among them Gopee
Chandan, Haritaal, Geroo etc are used in worship.
Solstice see
Dakshinaayan
Som
(1) Divinity in Rig Ved. The entire 9th Mandal is devoted to the prayers
offered to Som. (2) The Moon. (3) A plant whose juice is
intoxicated. Devtaa drink it - "Som Ras". (4) Somvaar -
2nd day of the week - Monday. (5) Amrit or nectar. (6) There
is a Temple of Som
Naath in Gujaraat. It is the first Jyotirling. Som Naath
means Shiv, since he is the master of both Chandramaa (Moon) and Amrit.
Som Naath see Som
Som Ras see Som
Somvaar see Som
Somvatee Amaavasya see
Amaavasyaa
Sonnet
A sonnet is a 14-line poem in iambic pentameter with a carefully rhyme
scheme. Other strict, short poetic forms occur in English poetry, such
as Sestina, the Villanelle, the Haiku, but none has been used so
successfully as the Sonnet. The Italian Sonnet was introduced in the
early 16th century. Its 14 lines break in Octave which usually rhymes as
abbaabba, sometimes abbacddc, but rarely abababab; and a Sestet which
may rhyme as xyzxyz or xyxyxy, or any of the multiple variations possible
using only two or three rhyme sounds. The English or Shakespearean
Sonnet, developed during the same period, consists of three quatrains,
and a couplet with the pattern - abab cdcd efef gg.
Sookhaa
Drought.
Sookshm Shareer see also
Body
Subtle or Astral body.
Sookt see also
Bhoomi Sookt;
Naaraayan Sookt;
Naasdeeya Sookt;
Purush Sookt;
Rig Ved Sookt; Rudra Sookt,
Shiv Sookt;
Shree Sookt;
Soorya,
Soorya's Powers,
Soorya Namaskaar;
Soorya Siddhaant,
Soorya's Worship
Soot
Sootak and Paatak
Sootra
Sootraatmaa
Sootra + Aatmaa. Soul. The form of Aatmaa when it is attached to body. Thus
the Aatmaa remains as Aatmaa until he takes up a body in this world. As soon
as he takes up the body in the world, he is called Jeev. Jeev is the part of
Paramaatmaa that lives in all living beings. He is called
Jeev or Mahat Tattwa also.
Sorrows
see also Taap
There are three types of sorrows - Adhi-Bhautik (related to body, like diseases),
Adhi-Daivik (given by Devtaa like famine, flood, earthquake etc), Adhyaatmik
(natural, such as at the time of birth or death). Adhi-BHautik sorrows can be
relieved by taking medicine etc; Adhi-Daivik sorrows can not be cured; and Adhyaatmik
sorrows can be removed only by knowledge.
Soul
[Bhaagvat Puraan,
7/3], tells 12 characteristics of soul - immortal, clean, One, Kshetragya,
Aashraya (resting place), Nir-Vikaar (without any impurities - pure), self-illuminated,
cause of everything, vast, alone, and uncovered.
Spandan
Pulsation.
Sphatik
Quartz. Crystal.
Sphuran
Trembling or pulsating.
Spices
Masaalaa. See the list of most used spices.
Sprihaa
Desire.
Spring Equinox
Srishti
Creation.
Steya
(1) To steal. (2) To rob. In this way "A-Steya" means "not
stealing" or "not robbing".
Sthaavar see also
Creation
Who cannot move. Immovable. Achal. Trees, mountains, etc are all
Sthaavar. Even Shiv Ling is also Sthaavar as other Devtaa can be moved but not a
Shiv Ling. Wherever it has been fixed, it must remain there only.
Sthitpragya
This is a Geetaa term. It means to treat life and death, fame and defame,
profit and loss, all alike. Who is Sthitpragya who treats all situations
of life without any happiness and sorrow.
Sthool Shareer
see also Body
Physical body. Five Gyaan Indriyaan, five Karm Indriyaan, five Bhoot,
five subjects of Indriyaan, Buddhi, Ahankaar and mind - these 23 Tattwa
(elements) jointly are called the body. This body, because of being born
from Prakriti, is the function of the Prakriti, that is why the three
Gun are called the cause of its origin.
Stotra
Stree
Woman. Female.
Subramanya
Very kind. Another name of Kaartikeya.
Sudarshan Chakra
The Divine disc in Vishnu's hand.
Sudharmaa
Sudharmaa was the Divine court which Krishn specially got from Brahmaa
Jee for Raajaa Ugrasen - Kans' father. It had some specialties. Whoever
sat in that court, he did not feel any hunger, thirst, sorrow, Moh, old
age and death there.
Suhaagin
A woman who is married and whose husband is alive is called Suhaagin.
These women are normally invited on most auspicious occasions.
Sukhsaagar
Name of a book.
Sumeru
(1) Sumeru Mountain made of gold. (2) There are 108 beads in
Hindoo rosaries. But there is an extra bead which is up above all of
them, that is called Meru or Sumeru bead. When one has finished counting
108 beads, he should not cross that Sumeru bead, rather turn the rosary
again to count the beads. It is an essential part of the rosary. It
shows the end of the 108 bead counting.
Sun
see Soorya
Sur
(1) Sound. Swar. (2) Devtaa.
Suraa
Wine.
Surabhi
Divine cow who came out from the sea at the time of Saagar Manthan.
Swa see also
Swa for other words with it
(1) Swa means "very own". (2) It works as a prefix also,
such as A, Nir, Sa etc to show one's ownership
Swaahaa
Swaastik
Swaayambhoo Ling
Swaayambhoo Ling is that Ling which is not man made and has come out itself from
the Earth. Such Ling re considered very auspicious and do not need any Sthaapanaa
(establishment rituals). They can be worshipped as such.
Swadhaa
(1) Food offered to Pitar (ancestors). Shraaddh. (2) Wife of Pitar.
Swapna see Sapanaa
Dream
Swar
Notes. In Indian music there are seven Swar (notes) - Shadaj, Rishabh, Gaandhaar,
Madhyam, Pancham, Dhaivat, and Nishaad - all these Swar are said to be Brahm Roop
because of being Brahm Vyanjak.
Bhaagvat Puraan 3/12 says that these Swar appeared from his play.
Swarg
Heaven.
Swaroop
Form.
Swasth
(1) Healthy.
(2) Swa means self, Sth means to establish. Thus Swasth means to
establish in self. In the same way "Yogasth" (established in Yog),
Dhyaanasth" (established in Dhyaan or meditation) words are.
Swasti Vaachan
Swasti means auspicious and Vaachan means speech, thus Swasti Vaachan
means "auspicious speech". In this process some auspicious words,
usually Mantra are spoken in the beginning of doing some important work.
For example, if one buys a new car, he may invite Braahman to worship it
and do Swasti Vaachan before driving himself, so that that machine does
not trouble him and proves auspicious for him. The ceremony of Swasti
Vaachan is described to be "a religious rite, preparatory to any
important observance, in which the Braahman strew boiled rice on the
ground, and invoke the blessings of the gods on the ceremony about to
commence".
Swayambhoo
Self-existing, means God. There are Swaayamboo idols also in temples,
they are self appeared.
Swayamvar
Swedaj
There are four types of Creation taking birth in this world, which are
created according to one's Karm (actions) - (1) Udbhij - which are born by
bursting out the Earth, such as trees and mountains, (2) Swedaj - which are
born by sweat, such as bedbug etc, (3) Andaj - which are born from eggs, such
as chickens, crocodiles, birds etc, and (4) Jaraayuj - which are born with
Naal attached to them, such as human beings, calves, goats etc.
Syaamantak Mani
Name of a Mani (gem) which Satraajit got from Soorya Dev. He later gave
it to Krishn. The legend has it that it is the same Mani which was later
known as Kohinoor Heeraa.