How Do You Spell MANJUSHRI?

Pronunciation: [mˈand͡ʒəʃɹˌi] (IPA)

Manjushri is a Buddhist deity who is regarded as the embodiment of wisdom. The spelling of his name can be confusing for those unfamiliar with Sanskrit phonetics. In IPA transcription, "manjushri" is pronounced as /mʌnˈdʒuːʃri/. The "nj" in the middle is the tricky part, as it represents a combination of the consonants "n" and "j." The "sh" at the end is also pronounced slightly differently than in English, with the tongue further back in the mouth. Overall, the spelling of "manjushri" reflects the unique sounds of Sanskrit.

MANJUSHRI Meaning and Definition

1. Manjushri is a prominent figure in Buddhist mythology and a central deity in Mahayana Buddhism. Also known as Manjughosha, he is revered as the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, representing the embodiment of enlightened wisdom and intelligence.

   The term "Manjushri" is derived from Sanskrit, where "manju" translates to "beautiful" or "pleasant," and "shri" denotes "splendor" or "glory." Hence, Manjushri is often depicted as a youthful, radiant-bodied deity adorned with regal ornaments, exuding an aura of divine wisdom.

   In Buddhist tradition, Manjushri is known for wielding a flaming sword in his right hand and holding a lotus flower in his left. The flaming sword symbolizes the cutting of ignorance, while the lotus flower represents purity and enlightenment. Additionally, Manjushri traditionally sits on a lion throne, symbolizing his fearless nature and dominance over delusion and ignorance.

   As the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, Manjushri is invoked to gain insight, seek clarity, and develop wisdom. Devotees turn to him for inspiration in their pursuit of knowledge and understanding, and to overcome ignorance and confusion. Manjushri is often worshiped through meditation practices, mantras, and visualizations, with the aspiration of attaining spiritual enlightenment and intellectual acuity.

   Manjushri is highly venerated across many Buddhist traditions, particularly in Tibet, Nepal, and other regions influenced by Mahayana Buddhism. His depiction and symbolism vary among different cultures and artistic representations, but his central significance as the embodiment of wisdom remains constant.

Etymology of MANJUSHRI

The word "Manjushri" has its roots in Sanskrit, which is an ancient language of India.

The term is composed of two elements: "Manju" and "shri". "Manju" means "charming" or "sweet", and "shri" is an honorific title often translated as "glory" or "radiance".

In Indian Buddhism, Manjushri is revered as a bodhisattva, a being on the path to enlightenment who symbolizes wisdom and intellect. He is often depicted holding a sword in one hand, representing wisdom cutting through ignorance, and a scripture or book in the other hand, symbolizing knowledge.