Significance of Snataka
Snataka is a term used across various Indian philosophical traditions, including Hinduism, Jainism, and others, denoting an individual who has reached a certain level of spiritual or educational qualification. In Hindu contexts, Snataka refers to someone who has completed Vedic studies, undergone specific rites of passage, and is prepared for spiritual practices and household responsibilities. Additionally, in Jainism, it signifies a perfected saint. Overall, Snataka indicates readiness for deeper spiritual teachings and rituals.
Synonyms: Graduate, Scholar, Learned person, Accomplished student, Expert
In Dutch: Snataka; In German: Snataka; In Finnish: Snataka; In Spanish: Snataka; In Swedish: Snataka; In Malay: Snataka; In French: Snataka
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Snataka'
Snataka in Hinduism signifies an individual, often a Brahmana, who has completed Vedic studies and undergone specific rites of passage, marking their readiness for spiritual responsibilities, household duties, and active participation in rituals.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A term for a Householder or a person who has undergone certain rites and duties, often linked with marriage and family responsibilities.[1] (2) A term referenced for individuals who are prescribed to make gifts to guests and others, indicating a duty of generosity related to subsistence.[2] (3) A person who has completed a religious or spiritual initiation, and thus holds a status that allows them to be a recipient of gifts and should not experience hunger.[3] (4) Individuals who have completed their Veda studies and are initiated into further duties.[4]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A person who has undergone a specific rite of passage, needing protection while lying down.[5] (2) A title referring to a Brahmin who has completed his education and is undertaking household responsibilities and duties.[6]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) A term for a student who has completed their studies and the corresponding rituals.[7] (2) One of the six honored individuals in the Arghya reception, typically representing a learned person or a graduate.[8]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to a student who has completed their education and is undergoing transformation into adulthood, signifying a great being.[9] (2) A purified individual who has undergone a specific initiation, recognized in the context of receiving offerings.[10]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A person who has completed a specific stage or ritual, indicating spiritual readiness.[11]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Referring to a person who has completed certain religious rites, particularly those involving purity and initiation, and is hence eligible for specific offerings and rituals.[12]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) A term referring to a person who has completed their Vedic studies and is ready to take on household duties.[13]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) A person who has completed certain spiritual or educational rites and is expected to perform rituals such as placing a bamboo staff for protection.[14]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) A term referring to a person who has completed certain spiritual studies and is considered knowledgeable.[15]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A term for a person who is initiated, possibly with specific qualifications, in the context of the sacrifice.[16]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A term indicating a certain group of individuals who are deemed suitable to receive profound spiritual teachings, implying a sense of readiness or qualification.[17]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) A snataka is a Brahmana who has completed his Vedic studies, indicating a cultured and learned individual within society.[18]
Jain concept of 'Snataka'
In Jainism, Snataka signifies a perfected saint who has eradicated adverse karmas, representing the advanced stages of spiritual journey. It also denotes the fifth division within the Nirgrantha sect, emphasizing deep spiritual attainment.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The perfect saint, known for having destroyed his destructive karmas, belonging to the thirteenth and fourteenth stages of spiritual progress.[19]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Fifth of the 5 divisions of nirgranthas.[20]