Language · 2
Before its modern use for a digital persona, what did the Sanskrit-derived English word 'avatar' originally denote in Hindu religious thought?
Answer
The earthly incarnation of a deity
In Hindu tradition, an avatar (from Sanskrit 'avatāra,' literally 'descent') is the physical manifestation of a god, such as Vishnu, appearing on earth.
💡 Did you know?
The word 'avatar' entered English as a Hindu/Buddhist religious term but now means a video-game character—a spiritual concept inverted by technology.
Other options people guess
- A sacred chant used in meditation
- A ceremonial purification bath
- A spiritual teacher's formal title
Topics
- sanskrit
- etymology
- hinduism
- religion
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