Sahastra, a word often encountered in Hindi texts and scriptures, carries a profound meaning. Understanding the meaning of “sahastra” in Hindi enriches one’s appreciation of Indian culture and language. This article delves deep into the meaning, origins, and usage of “sahastra” providing a comprehensive understanding for those seeking its true significance.
Unraveling the Meaning of Sahastra
Sahastra, derived from Sanskrit, simply means “thousand.” While seemingly straightforward, its implications extend beyond mere numerical value. In Hindi, “sahastra” (सहस्त्र) often signifies abundance, multiplicity, or a large, indefinite number. Its usage goes beyond quantifying physical objects, encompassing abstract concepts like power, virtues, and years. Think, for instance, of the “Sahasranama,” hymns containing a thousand names of a deity, signifying their infinite attributes.
Sahastra in Hindu Mythology and Scriptures
Sahastra features prominently in Hindu mythology and scriptures. The “Vishnu Sahasranama,” for instance, is a hymn reciting a thousand names of Lord Vishnu, each extolling a different aspect of his divine nature. Similarly, the “Lalita Sahasranama” praises Goddess Lalita Tripura Sundari with a thousand names. These hymns aren’t just lists of names but powerful mantras believed to bestow blessings upon those who recite them.
Beyond the Number: Symbolic Significance of Sahastra
Sahastra often carries symbolic weight, representing completeness, fullness, or infinity. The concept of “Sahasrara Chakra,” the crown chakra in yoga, signifies the highest level of spiritual consciousness. This association with a thousand petals implies a state of complete awakening and union with the divine.
Sahastra in Everyday Usage
While its religious and mythological significance is undeniable, “sahastra” also finds its place in everyday Hindi conversations. It can be used to describe a large quantity, like “sahastra log” (a thousand people), or to emphasize a point, like saying “sahastra shukriya” (a thousand thanks), expressing deep gratitude.
How do you use Sahastra in a sentence?
Sahastra can be easily integrated into sentences, much like the English word “thousand.” For example, “Is sabzi bazaar mein sahastra log the” translates to “There were thousands of people in the vegetable market.”
Conclusion
“Sahastra,” meaning “thousand” in Hindi, carries both literal and symbolic weight. From religious scriptures to daily conversations, its presence is pervasive in Indian culture and language. Understanding its multifaceted meaning allows for a deeper appreciation of the richness and depth of Hindi.
FAQ
- What is the Sanskrit origin of Sahastra? Sahastra comes from the Sanskrit word “sahasra,” also meaning “thousand.”
- What is the significance of Sahasranama? Sahasranamas are hymns containing a thousand names of a deity, signifying their infinite attributes.
- How is Sahastra used in everyday Hindi? It’s used to denote a large quantity or emphasize a point.
- What does Sahastra symbolize? It often symbolizes completeness, fullness, or infinity.
- What is the Sahasrara Chakra? It’s the crown chakra in yoga, representing the highest level of spiritual consciousness.
- Can you give an example of Sahastra used in a sentence? “Main aapko sahastra shukriya kehna chahta hoon” (I want to thank you a thousand times).
- Is Sahastra used in other Indian languages? Yes, variations of the word exist in other Indian languages, often with similar meanings.
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