HIMALA Meaning and
Definition
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"Himala" is a Tagalog word that translates to "miracle" in English. It is derived from the root word "hima" which means "to guard" or "to protect." In the Philippine context, "himala" represents a supernatural occurrence or an extraordinary event that is believed to be very rare and unexplainable by natural laws or human intervention. It often carries a religious or mystical connotation and is associated with divine intervention or the manifestation of God’s power.
The concept of "himala" is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture and folklore, where it has been prevalent for centuries. It can refer to various phenomena such as healing of the sick, mysterious apparitions or visions, levitation, or the occurrence of other inexplicable events. These "himalas" are often considered as signs or omens from a higher power, and people may interpret them as divine messages or blessings.
Furthermore, "himala" has also extended its meaning beyond supernatural occurrences and has come to represent something extraordinary, remarkable, or unexpected in a broader sense. It can describe an unexpected turn of events or a surprising outcome that defies logical explanation.
The term "himala" carries with it a sense of wonder, awe, and reverence, acknowledging the inscrutability of the divine and the extraordinary nature of life's mysteries.
Etymology of HIMALA
The word "himala" comes from the Tagalog language, which is spoken in the Philippines. Its etymology can be traced back to the Sanskrit term "himalaya", meaning "abode of snow". The term "himala" was brought to the Philippines through cultural and linguistic influences from India and other Southeast Asian countries. In Tagalog, "himala" generally refers to miracles or supernatural occurrences. It gained further popularity as the title of a well-known Filipino film directed by Ishmael Bernal in 1982, which further solidified its usage in the Filipino lexicon.
