Shankhanidhi, Śaṅkhanidhi, Shankha-nidhi, Śaṃkhanidhi, Shamkha-nidhi, Shamkhanidhi: 2 definitions

Introduction:

Shankhanidhi means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

The Sanskrit terms Śaṅkhanidhi and Śaṃkhanidhi can be transliterated into English as Sankhanidhi or Shankhanidhi or Samkhanidhi or Shamkhanidhi, using the IAST transliteration scheme (?).

In Hinduism

Shilpashastra (iconography)

Source: Archaeological Survey of India: Śaiva monuments at Paṭṭadakal (śilpa)

Śaṅkhanidhi (शङ्खनिधि) is a sculpture found at the temple of Lokeśvara.—The main shrine starts from the eastern wall to which abut the kakṣāsanas. On both side walls there are man-size seated images of Śaṅkhanidhi and Padmanidhi. They are representatives of two treasures of Kubera, the god of wealth. They are carved in man size. Both are shown plump, because it is believed that they are a sign of opulence. Both are bedecked with various ornaments and headdress. Śaṅkhanidhi, as his name suggests, holds a conch in his hand, whereas Padmanidhi holds a padma, a lotus. Below and on the side of the southern one, Padmanidhi, are again engraved inscriptions in Kannaḍa script and language.

Another sculpture is found as part of the Sūrya (sun god) sculpture, at the eastern porch ceiling.—In the upper portion of the tableau, by the side of the Sun are two makara, aquatic animals from the mouth of which are jutting out two human beings. Below these personages are seated two devotees, one on each side. They are Daṇḍin and Piṅgala. The former with a palm leaf book and a style is writing. On the snouts of aquatic reptiles are seated Śaṅkhanidhi and Padmanidhi. On the right hand side of the tableau, Mandeha, a group of demons who tried to attack the sun god, are taking to their heels. It is believed that they were taken aback when seven ascetics began to offer morning arghya, offering water respectfully to Sūrya. So these ascetics are shown on the right side of the god and on the left side are seen celestial beings offering flowers to him.

Shilpashastra book cover
context information

Shilpashastra (शिल्पशास्त्र, śilpaśāstra) represents the ancient Indian science (shastra) of creative arts (shilpa) such as sculpture, iconography and painting. Closely related to Vastushastra (architecture), they often share the same literature.

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Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

[«previous next»] — Shankhanidhi in Shaktism glossary
Source: Brill: Śaivism and the Tantric Traditions (shaktism)

Śaṃkhanidhi (शंखनिधि) is the name of a deity, according to the King Vatsarāja’s Pūjāstuti called the Kāmasiddhistuti (also Vāmakeśvarīstuti), guiding one through the worship of the Goddess Nityā.—Accordingly, “[...] I worship the three-eyed sharp-natured Kṣetreśa. His body is black, he has destroyed his adversaries, he carries a skull-bowl and a spear, [but] he is compassionate. I resort to Śaṅkhanidhi and Padmanidhi, who who sit upon a conch and lotus [respectively] as their seats. They are patient, bear the gestures of generosity and protection in their hands, and bring about everyone’s dreams. [...]

Shaktism book cover
context information

Shakta (शाक्त, śākta) or Shaktism (śāktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

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