Varnacakra, Varṇacakra, Varna-cakra: 2 definitions

Introduction:

Varnacakra 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 Varnacakra.

In Hinduism

Mantrashastra (the science of Mantras)

Source: archive.org: Catalogue of Pancaratra Agama Texts (mantra)

Varṇacakra (वर्णचक्र) refers a “mnemonic device (for composing mantras)”, as discussed in chapter 51 of the Śrīpraśnasaṃhitā: a Pāñcarātra text comprising 5500 Sanskrit verses covering a number of subjects ranging from selecting a temple site through building and furnishing it to sanctifying and maintaining worship in the sacred complex.—Description of the chapter [varṇacakra-vidhi]: Śrī asks to be instructed on how to use the varṇacakra-device for composing mantras. The Lord says that whoever masters the use of this device becomes one with Me. Turning to the varṇa-letters in the wheel-design, He states that the letters have their origin in śabdabrahman but now—just as the vyūhas themselves have done, and indeed partly due to the influence exerted by these vyūhas they have become manifest (1-30). [...]

context information

Mantrashastra (शिल्पशास्त्र, mantraśāstra) refers to the ancient Indian science of mantras—chants, incantations, spells, magical hymns, etc. Mantra Sastra literature includes many ancient books dealing with the methods reciting mantras, identifying and purifying its defects and the science behind uttering or chanting syllables.

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Pancaratra (worship of Nārāyaṇa)

Source: archive.org: Catalogue of Pancaratra Agama Texts

Varṇacakra (वर्णचक्र) refers to an “esoteric motif in the form of a wheel of letters”, as discussed in chapter 2 of the Sāttvatasaṃhitā: one of the most ancient of Pāñcarātra Āgamas consisting of roughly 3500 verses which stresses the theological standpoint of the oneness of God despite his various vyūhas (modes of existence), vibhavas (manifestations) and avatāras (incarnations).—Description of the chapter [upāsana-vidhi]: [...] Bhagavān then commences to tell how the worship of the Lord in an ekamūrti-form is to be done—with the usual offerings of flowers, incense, lamps, etc., but, in addition, by the preparation and use of a so-called varṇacakra design. How this varṇacakra motif is made is detailed: being in the form of a wheel, letters [varṇa] are put in the spaces between the spokes, along the rim, etc. (thus presumably representing in a visible and mnemonic form the realities of the physical and spiritual universe for contemplation). Brahman, with His form on some occasions and without form on others, is to be meditated upon in the hub (13-42). [...]

Pancaratra book cover
context information

Pancaratra (पाञ्चरात्र, pāñcarātra) represents a tradition of Hinduism where Narayana is revered and worshipped. Closeley related to Vaishnavism, the Pancaratra literature includes various Agamas and tantras incorporating many Vaishnava philosophies.

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