Raktavastra, Rakta-vastra: 2 definitions

Introduction:

Raktavastra 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.

In Hinduism

Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

[«previous next»] — Raktavastra in Shaktism glossary
Source: Google Books: Manthanabhairavatantram

Raktavastra (रक्तवस्त्र) refers to “red clothes”, according to the Śrīmatottara-tantra, an expansion of the Kubjikāmatatantra: the earliest popular and most authoritative Tantra of the Kubjikā cult.—Accordingly, “(The adept) should meditate on the goddess Parāparā in the middle of the triangle. (Parāparā) shines with the light of the rising sun and is (red) like a pomegranate flower. She wears red clothes [i.e., raktavastra-paridhānā] and is adorned with dreadlocks and the moon. Three wrinkles and a line of hair (adorn the middle of her body). She is replete with all fine characteristics and has fat upraised breasts. Tranquil and supreme, she has four arms and one face with three eyes. [...]”.

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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Shaivism (Shaiva philosophy)

[«previous next»] — Raktavastra in Shaivism glossary
Source: SOAS University of London: Protective Rites in the Netra Tantra

Raktavastra (रक्तवस्त्र) refers to “red garments”, according to the Svacchanda-tantra.—Accordingly, [verse 4.21-27, while describing inauspicious dreams]—“[...] [He] who sees black and red garments (raktavastrakṛṣṇaraktāni vastrāṇi) or an altered self [has inauspicious dreams]. In dreams [he] laughs and dances while [he] wears faded garlands, cuts up one's own flesh. [He dreams of] captivity, being eaten by a black snake, and [dreams of] a wedding. [If he] sees this in dreams, he is not successful”.

Shaivism book cover
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.

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