Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Smarana (Devanagari: स्मरण; ISO 15919: smaraṇa) refers to remembrance—specifically, the loving absorption of the mind in God. It is considered the very life force of devotion. Without Smarana, the other practices of Navadha Bhakti (nine forms of devotion) are akin to a lifeless body. In the context of
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
sindura (Devanagari: सिंदुर ISO15919: siṁdura) refers to vermillion, a brilliant red powder (traditionally made from red lead). In Hindu tradition, it is applied by a married woman along the parting of her hair (maang). This mark serves as a sacred symbol signifying her married status. Further Reading and
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
siddha (Devanagari: सिद्ध ISO15919: siddha) generally signifies "perfected," "accomplished," or "fulfilled." The term carries specific nuances depending on the context: * Spiritual Status: It refers to a Siddha Mahapurush—a God-realized saint who has attained the ultimate goal of life. * Metaphorical (Ripening): It
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
shukla paksha (Devanagari: शुक्ल पक्ष ISO15919: śukla pakṣa) refers to the waxing phase of the moon (literally the "bright fortnight"). It encompasses the fifteen-day period starting from the New Moon (Amavasya) and culminating in the Full Moon (Purnima), during which the moon's illumination
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Shruti prasthana (Devanagari: श्रुति प्रस्थान ISO15919: śruti prasthāna) refers to the Upanishads that serve as the final and irrefutable authority on spiritual matters. Of the estimated 1,130 original Upanishads, only 108 are available in the present age. Among these, the nine most prominent ones
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Shrotriya (Devanagari: श्रोत्रिय; ISO 15919: śrotriya) refers to one who possesses a thorough theoretical knowledge of the scriptures. Qualifications of a Guru While being Shrotriya is a fundamental condition for a spiritual teacher, knowledge alone is insufficient. One should not settle for a Guru who is
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Shrivatsa (Devanagari: श्रीवत्स; ISO 15919: śrīvatsa) is same as dakshinavarta. Further Reading and Reference * Reference: Practise Powerful Meditation, Ch. 8
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Shringara Rasa (Devanagari: श्रृंगार रस; ISO 15919: śr̥ṅgāra rasa) refers to the divine selfless amorous sentiment. It is revered as the topmost or supreme expression of divine love. Unlike mundane romance, this amorous sentiment is characterized by absolute selflessness. Further Reading and Reference * Alternate Spelling: shringaar
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
shringara (Devanagari: श्रृंगार; ISO 15919: śrr̥ṅgāra) is adornment, decoration or ornamentation. In a devotional context, it refers to the loving act of decorating the Divine form using beautiful garments, flowers, and jewelry to express your sweet sentiments. Further Reading and Reference * Alternate Spelling: shringaar * Related Concepts:
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Shreya Marga (Devanagari: श्रेय मार्ग; ISO 15919: śreya mārga) refers to the Path of the Ultimate Good (the path of attaining God). Its eternal counterpart is preya marga (Devanagari: प्रेय मार्ग; ISO 15919: preya mārga), the Path of the Pleasant. Both paths
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Shraddha (Devanagari: श्रद्धा; ISO 15919: śraddhā) signifies unwavering faith. It specifically refers to having absolute trust in the words of the Guru and the authority of the Vedas. In the progression of sadhana bhakti (devotional practice), this is recognized as the foundational first step. Further Reading and Reference
Bhakti Siddhant Glossary
Shmashana Vairagya (Devanagari: श्मशान वैराग्य; ISO 15919: śmaśāna vairāgya) signifies "cremation ground detachment," a form of temporary renunciation. It refers to the momentary realization of life's impermanence that arises when one accompanies a body to the cremation ground, understanding for a