Shanthavarna, Shantha-varna, Ṣaṇṭhavarṇa: 1 definition

Introduction:

Shanthavarna 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 Ṣaṇṭhavarṇa can be transliterated into English as Santhavarna or Shanthavarna, using the IAST transliteration scheme (?).

In Hinduism

Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

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

Ṣaṇṭhavarṇa (षण्ठवर्ण) or simply Ṣaṇṭha refers to the “four neuter vowels”.—There is a unique reference in the Tantrasadbhāva to an ‘end of the sixteen’. The vowels are sixteen, as are the digits of the moon. If the so-called four neuter ones (ṣaṇṭhavarṇa) are not counted, they become twelve, like the solar months. The context is a description of the progressive ascent of the Point (bindu) of consciousness and vitality through a series of stages projected into the body and beyond. Bhairava tells his consort: “And, O beloved, above the uvula there are two Points. That, fair lady, is called the ‘end of emission’ (visargānta i.e. the end of the sixteenth vowel) and the ‘end of the twelve’, the end of the energies (of the vowels) (kalā), the end of the vowels and the end of the sixteen”.

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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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