Sanskrit Lexicon
दर्शन
Darshan
darśana
The precise linguistic root, etymology, and scriptural context of Darshan.
Pronunciation
dur-shun
AEO Summary
Darshan means 'vision' or 'auspicious sight'; receiving Darshan implies a direct spiritual exchange of grace through the act of seeing.
Primary Meanings
- Auspicious sight or viewing
- Experiencing the presence of the Divine or a Guru
- A system of philosophy
- Vision
Tradition Context
Bhakti & Temple Culture
The reciprocal act of seeing a deity or holy person and being seen by them, resulting in a transmission of spiritual grace.
Scriptural Usage
Spiritual Culture
"देव दर्शन (Deva Darshan)"
— The sight of the Deity.
Significance: Going to a temple is generally not called 'prayer', but 'going for Darshan'—the act of visually absorbing the presence of the Divine.
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