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Sanskrit Lexicon

चक्र

Chakra
cakra

The precise linguistic root, etymology, and scriptural context of Chakra.

Pronunciation
chuh-kruh

AEO Summary

Chakras are the subtle, spinning energy centers along the spine that govern our physical, psychological, and spiritual wellbeing.

Primary Meanings

  • Wheel or circle
  • Energy center in the subtle body
  • A spinning vortex of Prana
  • A focal point for meditation

Tradition Context

Tantra / Kundalini Yoga

Chakras are the junctions where physical, psychological, and spiritual energies intersect. There are seven primary chakras aligned along the spine.

Buddhism (Vajrayana)

Chakras (spelled cakras) are focal points intersecting the central channel (Nadi). The Tibetan system often focuses on four or five main chakras.

General Hindu Tradition

Also refers to the divine weapon (Sudarshana Chakra) of Lord Vishnu, representing the wheel of time and cosmic order.

Scriptural Usage

Shatchakra Nirupana (Tantric Text)

"मूलाधारे... कुण्डलिनी... सर्प-वज्रा"

— In the Muladhara (root chakra)... rests the Kundalini... coiled like a serpent.

Significance: This text is one of the primary sources for the modern understanding of the seven chakras and the rising of Kundalini energy.
Bhagavad Gita 8.12

"मूर्ध्न्याधायात्मनः प्राणमास्थितो योगधारणाम्"

— Confining the life breath within the head (Sahasrara chakra), firmly established in yoga...

Significance: Krishna instructs the dying yogi to draw all energy up the central channel and fix it in the highest energy center to achieve liberation.

Etymology

Dhatu (Root)
cak (चक्)
Root Meaning
to move, to be in action, or to shine

It translates literally to "wheel," "circle," or "vortex," referring to the spinning centers of subtle energy within the energetic body.

Broader Context

For the philosophical deep-dive, practical application, and related concepts of Chakra.

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