Mahacapa, Mahācāpa, Maha-capa: 1 definition

Introduction:

Mahacapa 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.

Alternative spellings of this word include Mahachapa.

In Hinduism

Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

Source: Google Books: Manthanabhairavatantram

Mahācāpa (महाचाप) refers to a “large bow”, according to the Kularatnoddyota, one of the earliest Kubjikā Tantras.—Accordingly, “[...] (The gross form has) five faces, ten arms and, pure, it has a smiling face. [...] She makes boon bestowing and fear dispelling gestures and (holds) a rosary, book, noose, goad, large bow [i.e., mahācāpa], and five arrows in her hands. She makes the gesture of knowledge and holds a large vessel filled with wine. O great goddess! Delighted with supreme bliss, she causes the entire universe to melt. (This is how) you should be visualized in the Transmission of the Youth. [...]”.

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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