SAHASRANAMA Meaning and
Definition
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Sahasranama is a Sanskrit term that holds significant meaning in Hinduism. Derived from the roots "sahasra," meaning "thousand," and "nama," meaning "name," it commonly refers to a specific type of Hindu prayer or hymn. More specifically, sahasranama denotes the recitation or chant of a thousand names of a particular deity or sacred entity.
These names are believed to encapsulate the various attributes, qualities, and aspects of the divine being being revered. They serve to invoke the blessings and grace of the deity, allowing devotees to establish a personal connection and experience spiritual upliftment.
Sahasranama prayers can be found across different Hindu scriptures, with some of the most famous examples being the Vishnu Sahasranama (thousand names of Lord Vishnu) and the Lalita Sahasranama (thousand names of Goddess Lalita Tripurasundari). Such hymns are usually composed in poetic verses with precise descriptions that highlight the divine virtues and powers attributed to the deity.
The recitation of sahasranama is often performed as a form of worship or meditation, with devotees chanting the sacred names repetitively to attain spiritual elevation, obtain protection, seek blessings, and deepen their devotion. These prayers are considered highly potent, and their regular practice is believed to bestow divine grace, purify the mind, and cultivate spiritual virtues.
Overall, sahasranama entails the reverential repetition of a thousand names of a deity, intending to establish a deep connection with the divine and seek spiritual enlightenment. It serves as an integral part of Hindu religious practices and is embraced by devotees as a powerful means to experience the divine presence within oneself.
Etymology of SAHASRANAMA
The word "sahasranama" is derived from the Sanskrit language, where "sahasra" means "thousand" and "nama" means "name". In Hinduism, "sahasranama" refers to a list or hymn consisting of a thousand names of a deity. It is often used in devotional practices and recitations, where the devotees chant or recite the thousand names as a form of worship or meditation. The most well-known example is the Vishnu Sahasranama, which lists a thousand names of Lord Vishnu.
