Rakshartha, Rakṣārtha, Raksha-artha: 2 definitions

Introduction
In Hinduism
1. Shaivism
2. Ayurveda
See also

Introduction:

Rakshartha 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 term Rakṣārtha can be transliterated into English as Raksartha or Rakshartha, using the IAST transliteration scheme (?).

In Hinduism

Shaivism (Shaiva philosophy)

Source: SOAS University of London: Protective Rites in the Netra Tantra

Rakṣārtha (रक्षार्थ) means “for the (sake of) protection” (of cows, Brahmins, and men), according to the Netratantra of Kṣemarāja: a Śaiva text from the 9th century in which Śiva (Bhairava) teaches Pārvatī topics such as metaphysics, cosmology, and soteriology.—Accordingly, [verse 10.7cd-17ab, while describing the worship of Bhairavī and Bhairava]—“[...] One should always worship [in times of] peace and prosperity, to suppress sickness and vice, [which are] the root cause of wasting away, [and] for the protection of cows, Brahmins, and men (rakṣārtha—gobrahmaṇeṣu rakṣārthaṃ). One meditates on [Bhairava] as having equal radiance to snow, jasmine, the moon, or pearls. [He is] as clear as the curved moon and similar to immovable quartz. [He is] clear like the burning of the end of time, resembles a flower on the sacred tree, appears red like innumerable suns or, rather, red like a lotus. [...]”.

context information

Shaiva (शैव, śaiva) or Shaivism (śaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes a range of scriptures, including Tantras, while the root of this tradition may be traced back to the ancient Vedas.

Ayurveda (science of life)

Toxicology (Study and Treatment of poison)

Source: Shodhganga: Kasyapa Samhita—Text on Visha Chikitsa

Rakṣārtha (रक्षार्थ) refers to “wishing to protect” (the medicinal potency), according to the Kāśyapa Saṃhitā: an ancient Sanskrit text from the Pāñcarātra tradition dealing with both Tantra and Viṣacikitsā—an important topic from Āyurveda which deals with the study of Toxicology (Viṣavidyā or Sarpavidyā).—Kāśyapa posits that the collection or gathering of medicinal herbs must be done in a specified manner, accompanied by japa or prayer. If plucked without the relevant prayers or mantras, the medicines are liable to lose their potency which is paramount for effective treatment and complete remedy of any ailment. The Creator created people and also the medicines to safeguard and protect humanity. He also created the moon to protect (rakṣārtha) the medicinal potency of the flora.

context information

Āyurveda (आयुर्वेद, ayurveda) is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Āyurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

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Search found 12 books and stories containing Rakshartha, Rakṣārtha, Rakṣa-artha, Raksha-artha, Raksa-artha, Raksartha; (plurals include: Raksharthas, Rakṣārthas, arthas, Raksarthas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

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Verse 3.2.145 < [Chapter 2 - Description of the Lord’s Travel Through Bhuvaneśvara and Other Placesto Jagannātha Purī]

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