How Do You Spell ARAHAT?

Pronunciation: [ˈaɹɐhˌat] (IPA)

The word "arahat" is a Sanskrit term that signifies a fully enlightened being in Buddhism. It is usually spelled as /ˈærəhæt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The pronunciation of the word starts with the short 'a' sound followed by the sound of 'r' and then 'uh'. The final syllable consists of the sound of 'h' followed by the short 'a' sound and 't'. The spelling of the word 'arahat' is thus a reflection of its original Sanskrit pronunciation, which has been preserved through years of linguistic evolution.

ARAHAT Meaning and Definition

1. An arahat is a significant concept in Buddhism, particularly in Theravada Buddhism, and stands as an ideal attainment for its followers. Derived from the Pali language, "arahat" literally translates to "one who is worthy" or "one who is noble." It refers to an individual who has achieved the highest level of spiritual perfection and liberation from suffering, known as Nirvana.

   An arahat is one who has progressed through the stages of enlightenment, which include stream-entry, once-returner, and non-returner, culminating in becoming an arahat. To become an arahat, one must eradicate all defilements, attachments, and cravings that bind individuals to the cycle of birth and death. The arahat has attained complete liberation and transcended the cycle of rebirth.

   Characteristically, an arahat is free from ignorance, greed, hatred, and delusion. They have eradicated all mental impurities and achieved a state of deep wisdom, compassion, and understanding. Their mind is entirely purified, leading to the cessation of suffering and the realization of the ultimate truth of existence.

   The attainment of arahatship signifies the realization of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. As arahats have achieved the highest level of enlightenment, they are considered living examples of the Buddha's teachings and serve as inspiring role models for other Buddhists seeking liberation and spiritual growth.

   In conclusion, an arahat is an individual who has reached the pinnacle of spiritual development in Buddhism, having attained liberation from suffering and rebirth through the eradication of defilements and the cultivation of wisdom and compassion.

Etymology of ARAHAT

The word "arahat" originates from Pali, which is an ancient language used in the early Buddhist scriptures. "Arahant" is the Pali form, while "arahat" is a Sanskrit equivalent.

Etymologically, "arahat" is derived from the root word "ara" meaning "worthy" or "deserving", and the suffix "-hat" which signifies "one who possesses" or "one who has obtained". Hence, the term "arahat" can be understood as "one who has attained worthiness" or "one who has achieved the highest spiritual goal".

In Buddhism, an arahat refers to an enlightened being who has fully and completely realized the ultimate truth, extinguished all defilements, and achieved liberation from the cycle of birth and death.