How Do You Spell DHARMAKAYA?

Pronunciation: [dˈɑːmɐkˌe͡ɪə] (IPA)

The word "dharmakaya" is a term from Buddhism which refers to the ultimate nature of reality. The spelling of this word, according to IPA phonetic transcription, is /dʰərməkeɪə/. The initial "d" is pronounced with an aspirated "h" sound, followed by "ar" and "m" sounds. The "a" is pronounced with a schwa sound, and the second syllable begins with the "k" sound, followed by "eɪ" and "ə" sounds. Overall, the spelling of "dharmakaya" reflects its Sanskrit origins and the sounds of the language.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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DHARMAKAYA Meaning and Definition

  1. Dharmakaya, a concept rooted in Buddhist philosophy, is a Sanskrit term that translates to "body of truth" or "reality body." It refers to one of the three aspects of the Trikaya doctrine, along with Sambhogakaya and Nirmanakaya, which collectively explain the nature of the Buddha.

    In its essence, dharmakaya represents the ultimate reality or the primordial state of being that transcends all dualistic concepts and limitations. It is the ultimate nature of enlightenment, the unconditioned and eternal truth that pervades all existence. Dharmakaya is seen as the embodiment of the infinite wisdom, compassion, and perfect qualities of the Buddha.

    Symbolically, dharmakaya is often compared to the vast expanse of space, limitless and all-pervading. It is beyond conceptualization and cannot be grasped by ordinary thought processes. It exists as the formless, pure and unchanging reality that underlies all phenomena.

    In the Mahayana tradition, the concept of dharmakaya is closely associated with the Bodhisattva ideal. Bodhisattvas, enlightened beings who vow to work for the liberation of all sentient beings, are believed to manifest in the world in various forms (Nirmanakaya) while simultaneously residing in the realm of pure reality (Dharmakaya). Dharmakaya is therefore perceived as the highest realization, representing the state of Buddhahood that all practitioners aspire to attain.

    Overall, dharmakaya encompasses the absolute truth, the inherent nature of reality, and the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice. It represents the unconditioned, all-encompassing, and timeless state of enlightenment.

Etymology of DHARMAKAYA

The word "dharmakaya" has its origins in Sanskrit, an ancient Indic language. It is composed of two primary Sanskrit terms: "dharma" and "kaya".

1. Dharma: In Sanskrit, "dharma" has multiple meanings, including "cosmic law and order", "duty", "righteousness", or "teaching". It is a fundamental concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, among other religions.

2. Kaya: "Kaya" translates to "body" or "form" in Sanskrit.

Therefore, when combined, "dharmakaya" can be understood as the "body of truth", "truth body", or "reality body". In Buddhist philosophy, it refers to one of the three bodies (trikaya) of a Buddha, which represents the ultimate nature of enlightenment.