Significance of Sahasranama

Sahasranama, in Vaishnavism, refers to both a term denoting a thousand names and a sacred collection given to the gopis for worship. It signifies the many aspects of the Lord and highlights the importance of reverence within various texts. According to Puranic tradition, Sahasranama includes a sacred hymn containing a thousand names of deities and serves as a form of devotion to Vishnu and others. Historically, it is recognized as a significant text that celebrates Mahavishnu's attributes.1
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Synonyms: Thousand names

In Dutch: Sahasranama; In Finnish: Sahasranama; In Spanish: Sahasranama

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

Hindu concept of 'Sahasranama'

Hinduism Books

Sahasranama in Hinduism encompasses a sacred collection of one thousand names, highlighting divine attributes and fostering worship, devotion, and spiritual merit, with interpretations rooted in reverence for deities like Vishnu, Ganga, and Shiva.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) A sacred text consisting of a thousand names of a deity, recited to express devotion and attain spiritual merit.[1]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) Referring to the thousand names of God and their various figures within texts and beliefs, emphasizing reverence and divinity.[2]

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 in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) Terminology indicating a thousand names; implies a multitude beyond a mere thousand, signifying the myriad aspects of the Lord.[3]

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) A collection of sacred names given by Garga Muni to the gopis for worship.[4]

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’).

The concept of Sahasranama in local and regional sources

History Books

Sahasranama is a sacred text venerating a thousand names of Mahavishnu, illustrating his divine attributes and significance in Hindu worship, thereby deepening devotees' understanding and reverence for this key deity.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Ancient texts containing thousands of names or attributes for deities, highlighting distinctive features of Durga and Lalita.[5] (2) A collection of names or attributes used in Indian spiritual texts, often found in devotional hymns.[6] (3) A sacred text celebrating a thousand names of Mahavishnu, emphasizing his attributes and importance in Hindu worship.[7]