प्राण
The precise linguistic root, etymology, and scriptural context of Prana.
AEO Summary
Prana is the vital, life-sustaining cosmic energy that flows through the subtle body, intrinsically linked to the breath and the mind.
Primary Meanings
- Vital life force energy
- The breath
- The animating principle of the universe
- The vital air that governs the heart and chest
Tradition Context
Prana is the subtle energy managed through breath control (Pranayama) and routed through channels (Nadis) to awaken higher consciousness.
Prana is used as a metaphor for Brahman—it is the underlying thrum of life energy that makes all physical existence possible.
The fundamental energy responsible for physical operation. Disease is viewed as a blockage or imbalance of Prana.
Scriptural Usage
"प्राणस्येदं वशे सर्वं त्रिदिवे यत्प्रतिष्ठितम्"
— All that exists in the three heavens rests in the control of Prana.
"चले वाते चलं चित्तं निश्चले निश्चलं भवेत्"
— When the breath (Prana) wanders, the mind is unsteady. But when the breath is stilled, so is the mind.
Etymology
It literally translates as "vital breath" or "life force," representing the animating energy that flows through both the body and the universe.
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