UMeDesi.comWords from India – what’s behind these words? Ream more to get a better understanding of these widely used terms
Summary “Om” or “Aum” is a sacred sound with deep spiritual and cultural significance in Indian traditions. It represents the ultimate reality or divine essence. Chanting or saying “Om” is believed to facilitate spiritual growth, self-realization, and connection with the divine. The benefits of chanting “Om” include relaxation, stress reduction, improved focus, and a sense […]
Summary According to Indian philosophy: Maya means that, what we see and feel, may not be exactly how things really are. It’s like when we see a mirage and think there’s water, but it’s actually an illusion. It reminds us that there’s more to reality than meets the eye. We can counter Maya by cultivating […]
Summary Dharma refers to one’s duty or purpose in life, as determined by their role and station in society. It is believed that fulfilling one’s dharma is necessary for spiritual progress and generating positive karma. Dharma is often associated with virtues such as honesty, compassion, and generosity. What is Dharma? Dharma, is truly another majestic […]
Summary The concept of Samsara refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all living beings are believed to go through. According to this belief, a person’s actions and thoughts in their current life determine their future experiences, including their next birth. This cycle continues indefinitely until the individual is able to break […]
A lot is said about Karma nowadays. There is a popularly used phrase which indicates bad deeds will not go unpunished. Where does this word come from? What does it really mean? Read on…. Summary Karma is the concept that actions have consequences. In India, it is believed that every action, thought, and word generates […]
Summary Moksha is a concept in ancient Indian philosophies which refers to liberation or release from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara. The term “moksha” comes from the Sanskrit word “mukti,” which means “release,” “liberation,” or “freedom.” It is the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, and is considered to be the […]
What is Ayurveda? Traditional Indian medicinal sciences, also known as Ayurveda, have a rich cultural and historical background that goes back thousands of years. Ayurveda is considered to be one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world, and it originated in India around 5,000 years ago. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from the […]
What is Yoga? Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means to yoke or unite, and it is often translated as “union” or “harmony.” The earliest mention of yoga can be found in the ancient Indian texts known […]
Namaste, also known as namaskar, is a traditional Indian greeting that is used all over the world. It is a gesture of respect and reverence that is performed by pressing the palms together in front of the chest and bowing slightly.
What is Sanskrit? Where does it come from? Sanskrit is an ancient language of the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the oldest and most influential languages in the world, and has had a profound impact on many other languages and cultures, particularly those of Europe and South Asia. Sanskrit is believed originated in the […]