Significance of Dhyanam

In Vaishnavism, Dhyanam encompasses various forms of meditation, emphasizing that closing one's eyes does not constitute true meditation. It involves focusing on presiding deities and encompasses practices that promote well-being for practitioners. Dhyanam includes deep focus on sacred figures such as Tulasi, Devi Surabhi, Devi Mangala Candi, and Savitri, highlighting their divine attributes and qualities during worship. Ultimately, Dhyanam represents a multifaceted meditative practice aimed at connecting with the divine through concentration and reverence.1

Synonyms: Meditation, Contemplation, Mindfulness, Reflection, Concentration, Thoughtfulness, Introspection

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Dhyanam'

Hinduism Books

Dhyanam in Hinduism encompasses various forms of meditation and contemplation, emphasizing the significance of focused devotion towards deities like Devi Surabhi and Savitri, and highlights the importance of inner reflection and reverence in worship.

Significance of Dhyanam in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) Meditation or contemplation on Savitri, involving specific focus and inner reflection during worship.^[1] (2) Dhyanam refers to the meditation or prayer composed for the Devi Surabhi, emphasizing her divine characteristics and blessings.^[2] (3) Meditative practice focused on visualizing and connecting with the divine forms of the deities.^[3] (4) Meditation on Tulasi, involving deep focus and reverence during the worship process.^[4] (5) A form of meditation focused on the attributes and qualities of Devi Mangala Candi, highlighting her auspiciousness and benevolence.^[5]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) The meditative practice focusing on the presiding deities of the fundamental material principles.^[6]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance of Dhyanam in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):

Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) Meditation; however, in this context, it is mentioned that closing one's eyes is not true meditation.^[7]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Last Updated: 29 October, 2024