How Do You Spell ABHINAVAGUPTA?

Pronunciation: [ɐbhˈɪnɐvˌaɡʌptə] (IPA)

Abhinavagupta, a prominent figure in the Shaiva Tantra tradition, is a difficult word to spell. Pronounced as "əbhinɑvəgʊptə," the word has several unique features that make it challenging for non-native speakers. The 'bh' and 'gh' sounds are aspirated with a glottal closing, and the 'a' is pronounced as an unstressed vowel, denoted with a schwa symbol. The 'av' sound is a diphthong, where the first vowel glides into the second. Despite these complexities, mastering the spelling of Abhinavagupta is essential for those interested in Indian spirituality and philosophy.

ABHINAVAGUPTA Meaning and Definition

1. Abhinavagupta was a prominent Indian philosopher, mystic, and aesthetician who lived in Kashmir during the tenth and eleventh centuries. He was known for his contributions to the fields of art, literature, and philosophy, particularly in the school of Kashmir Shaivism.

   In terms of philosophy, Abhinavagupta expanded upon the teachings of the ancient sage, Panini, and developed a metaphysical system known as "pratyabhijna." This philosophy emphasized the recognition of the divine essence within oneself and the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Abhinavagupta's work also focused on unraveling the nature of consciousness and the path towards ultimate liberation or self-realization.

   Additionally, Abhinavagupta was a renowned aesthetician who provided significant insights into the theory and practice of Indian aesthetics. He composed the famous treatise, "Abhinavabharati," which offered a comprehensive understanding of performing arts like dance, music, and drama. This work emphasized the process of aesthetic experience, exploring the emotional states that arise during artistic performances and their impact on the individual and society.

   Furthermore, Abhinavagupta's contributions to literature were remarkable. He wrote commentaries on works such as the Natyashastra, providing intricate details on the mechanics and significance of Indian performing arts. His commentaries have been regarded as invaluable sources for understanding ancient Indian literature and performance traditions.

   Overall, Abhinavagupta's multifaceted contributions to philosophy, aesthetics, and literature have had a lasting impact on Indian thought and culture. His teachings continue to inspire scholars, artists, and spiritual seekers, making him a significant figure in the history of Indian philosophy and aesthetics.

Etymology of ABHINAVAGUPTA

The word "Abhinavagupta" is a combination of two Sanskrit words - "abhinava" and "gupta".

1. "Abhinava" (अभिनव) is an adjective that means "new", "fresh", "young", "modern", or "novel" in Sanskrit. It is composed of "abhi" (अभि), meaning "towards" or "over", and "nava" (नव), meaning "new" or "fresh".

2. "Gupta" (गुप्त) is a common surname in India, which can be translated to "protected", "hidden", or "secret". It is derived from the Sanskrit verb "gup" (गुप्), meaning "to protect" or "to conceal".