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Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

Source: Google Books: Manthanabhairavatantram

Raktābharaṇa (रक्ताभरण) refers to “red ornaments”, according to the Brahmayāmala verse 21.72-73ab.—The renouncer in Vedic times wore ochre coloured clothes. This practice continues amongst Śaiva renouncers who attribute the origin of their orders to Śaṅkarācārya. Vaiṣṇava renouncers, who in their outer appearance resemble in many respects their Śaiva counterparts, generally wear white. Modern Śākta renouncers wear red clothes. A similar practice is recorded in the Brahmayāmala, a text that may well belong to the seventh or eighth century. In one of a series of vows (vrata) described there, the initiate may chose to perform he should wear “black and red clothes and no upper garment”. Another prescribes that: “wearing red clothes, a red garland and (smeared with) unguent, he has red ornaments [i.e., raktābharaṇa—raktair ābharaṇair] and holds an ascetic's staff. In particular, he should always carry a skull and a double-headed drum”.

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.

See also (Relevant definitions)

Partial matches: Abharana, Rakta.

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Search found 1 books and stories containing Raktabharana, Raktābharaṇa, Rakta-abharana, Rakta-ābharaṇa; (plurals include: Raktabharanas, Raktābharaṇas, abharanas, ābharaṇas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

The Practice Manual of Noble Tārā Kurukullā (by Dharmachakra Translation Committee)

Chapter 5 < [Appendix - Sanskrit Text]

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