A
Beautiful — Kṣamā (क्षमा) is another profound Sanskrit term, rich in both spiritual and ethical meaning.
Kṣamā (Forgiveness / Patience / Forbearance)
At its heart, Kṣamā means much more than simply “forgiveness.”
It embodies a spiritual strength — the capacity to remain calm, patient, and compassionate even when wronged, misunderstood, or hurt.
🌿
Literal and Deeper Meanings
- Etymology: From the root “kṣam”, meaning to endure, to forgive, to be patient.
- Outer meaning: The willingness to forgive others’ faults or injuries.
- Inner meaning: The power of endurance, equanimity, and non-reactiveness — born of inner strength and understanding.
🕊️
In Vedanta and Yoga
Kṣamā is one of the key virtues (sādhana–chatuṣṭaya) or spiritual disciplines recommended for seekers.
It is said that:
“Kṣamā is the ornament of the strong.”
It doesn’t come from weakness or submission, but from inner mastery.
When one truly sees the Self (Ātman) in all beings, there’s nothing to forgive — because no “other” remains to harm you.
🌺
Everyday Expression of Kṣamā
- Responding to criticism without anger.
- Forgiving a friend without holding resentment.
- Bearing life’s difficulties with serenity and faith.
- Staying composed when outcomes don’t go your way.
✨
In summary:
Viveka — discernment
Vairāgya — detachment
Kṣamā — forbearance and forgiveness
Together, they shape a tranquil, wise, and compassionate heart.
Would you like me to include how Kṣamā is described in the Bhagavad Gītā or Manu Smṛti next? It appears in some beautiful verses there.
No comments:
Post a Comment