Sanskar (संस्कार)
Mental impressions left on the mind by our thoughts and decisions, which can continue from one lifetime to another.
Sanskar (संस्कार | saṃskāra) means a mental impression left on the Antahkaran (mind) by our thoughts and decisions.
Every thought that enters the mind and every decision we make leaves a mark. These accumulated marks are called Sanskars.
How Are Sanskars Formed?
The formation of Sanskars begins in infancy.
This is why parents may take a young child to their Guru and have the child bow at the Guru's feet. Such actions help cultivate humility and other positive qualities. This is commonly described as giving the child good Sanskars.
Sanskars continue to accumulate throughout life as thoughts, choices, and experiences leave impressions on the mind.
Do Sanskars Continue Into Future Lives?
Yes. These impressions continue into future lives.
This helps explain why people can have natural preferences from childhood—for example, preferring a particular sleeping position, enjoying certain kinds of food, or liking particular colors. Such tendencies may be influenced by Sanskars carried from previous lives.
Also written as: Sanskaar
