Dakshinamurti Ashtottara Shatanamavali — Word-by-Word Meaning
दक्षिणामूर्ति अष्टोत्तर शतनामावली
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Complete Translation
The 108 names of Lord Dakshinamurti, the south-facing form of Shiva as the supreme teacher (guru) who imparts knowledge in silence — each recited with “Om” and “namaḥ”, invoked for wisdom and learning.
Origin & History
Source: Traditional
Author: Traditional
Period: Classical
The Dakshinamurti Ashtottara Shatanamavali is a traditional garland of the 108 names of Dakshinamurti. The 108 names of Lord Dakshinamurti, the south-facing form of Shiva as the supreme teacher (guru) who imparts knowledge in silence — each recited with “Om” and “namaḥ”, invoked for wisdom and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dakshinamurti Ashtottara Shatanamavali?▼
The 108 names of Lord Dakshinamurti, the south-facing form of Shiva as the supreme teacher (guru) who imparts knowledge in silence — each recited with “Om” and “namaḥ”, invoked for wisdom and learning.
How is an Ashtottara Shatanamavali chanted?▼
It is chanted as an archana: each of the 108 names is recited with “Om” (ॐ) before it and “namaḥ” (नमः) after it, while offering a flower or a pinch of kumkum at the deity’s feet for each name. The complete garland of 108 names is offered in one sitting, especially on Mondays and during Maha Shivaratri and Shravan.
What does “Ashtottara Shatanamavali” mean?▼
“Ashtottara-shata” means “a hundred and eight” (108) and “namavali” means “a garland of names”. So it is the sacred list of the 108 names of Dakshinamurti, each a name of praise and meditation.
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