How Do You Spell VAJRASATTVA?

Pronunciation: [vˈad͡ʒɹɐsˌatvə] (IPA)

Vajrasattva is a word from Buddhism, used to describe a deity who represents purity and compassion. The word is spelled as /ˌvʌdʒrəˈsʌtvə/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress falling on the second syllable. The word is composed of two parts: "vajra," which means diamond or thunderbolt, and "sattva," which means being or essence. The spelling of this word, like many other words derived from Sanskrit, can be challenging for non-native speakers.

VAJRASATTVA Meaning and Definition

  1. Vajrasattva is a term derived from Sanskrit, commonly used in Buddhist and Tantric traditions. It is composed of two words: "vajra" meaning "diamond" or "thunderbolt" and "sattva" meaning "being" or "essence." Therefore, Vajrasattva is often translated as "Diamond Being" or "Thunderbolt Being."

    In Buddhism, Vajrasattva symbolizes the embodiment of purity and is regarded as a Bodhisattva, an enlightened being who compassionately and selflessly works for the liberation of all sentient beings. Vajrasattva is associated with the practice of purification and is considered to be the deity who purifies negative karma and obscurations.

    As a deity, Vajrasattva is often depicted with a serene expression, holding a vajra in his right hand, which represents the indestructible nature of enlightenment, and a bell in his left hand, symbolizing wisdom. He is portrayed in white, representing the purity of his essence.

    The practice of Vajrasattva is commonly performed by Buddhist practitioners to cleanse defilements, purify negative karma, and release past transgressions. It involves a mantra recitation combined with visualizations and meditation techniques aimed at invoking Vajrasattva's blessings and purifying the mind and soul from impurities.

    By engaging in the practice of Vajrasattva, practitioners strive to overcome ignorance, destructive emotions, and habitual patterns that hinder spiritual progress. It is believed that through sincere devotion and reliance on Vajrasattva, one can attain spiritual transformation, enlightenment, and ultimately, liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Etymology of VAJRASATTVA

The word "Vajrasattva" comes from the Sanskrit language, which is an ancient Indo-Aryan language used in ancient India. The term is composed of two main components:

1. Vajra: The term "vajra" means "diamond" or "thunderbolt" in Sanskrit. It is a symbol of indestructibility, purity, and power in various Indian religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism. In Buddhism, it represents the ultimate nature of reality or enlightenment.

2. Sattva: The term "sattva" means "being" or "existence" in Sanskrit. It is used to represent the quality of purity, goodness, and truth. In Buddhism, it denotes one of the three mental qualities or traits (gunas), along with rajas (passion) and tamas (ignorance).