Hindu Terms & Their Meanings

This guide explains key terms often heard in Hindu teachings, worship, and temple life. Hinduism is rich in spiritual language, and understanding these words helps deepen appreciation and connection.

Aarti / Arati

A devotional ritual offering light (usually from ghee lamps) to the deity while singing sacred hymns.

Atman

The eternal Self or soul within every being — pure, divine, and immortal.

Bhakti

Devotion and loving surrender to God; one of the most beautiful paths to spiritual realization.

Brahman

The supreme universal Divine Reality — beyond form, yet present in all forms.

Dharma

Righteous living, moral duty, and living in harmony with truth and virtue.

Deva / Devi

Divine beings or forms of God —
Deva = Divine masculine form
Devi = Divine feminine form (Shakti)

Darshan

Sacred sight — seeing and being seen by the deity or spiritual teacher; a moment of blessing.

Gita (Bhagavad Gita)

A sacred scripture in which Lord Krishna gives timeless spiritual guidance to Arjuna.

Guru

A spiritual teacher who guides one toward truth and self-realization.

Karma

The universal law of cause and effect — our actions shape our future.

Moksha

Liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth; union with the Divine.

Mantra

Sacred sound or prayer chanted for spiritual upliftment, meditation, and protection.

Murti

A sacred form or statue of a deity, worshipped as a living presence of the Divine.

Puja

A worship ritual offering prayers, flowers, incense, food, and devotion to God.

Prasad

Blessed food offered to God and then shared with devotees.

Rama / Krishna / Vishnu

Forms of the Supreme God in Vaishnavism, representing love, compassion, and divine protection.

Shiva

The Supreme Divine in Shaivism — the cosmic transformer, destroyer of ignorance.

Shakti

Divine feminine energy — the creative power of the universe.

Vedas / Upanishads

Ancient sacred scriptures containing wisdom, philosophy, and spiritual knowledge.

Yoga

A spiritual discipline uniting body, mind, and soul — includes meditation, breathwork, and devotion.

Key Concepts in Hinduism

• Dharma — Righteous living, truth, duty, and moral values

• Karma — Every action has a consequence; good actions bring good results

• Atman — The eternal, divine Self within every being

• Brahman — The Supreme Divine Reality; God present in all

• Moksha — Liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth; union with God

• Bhakti — Devotion, love, and surrender to God

• Yoga — Spiritual practice to unite the mind, body, and soul

• Ahimsa — Non-violence; respect and compassion for all living beings