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Significance of Chakra

Chakra refers to energy centers within the body that are pivotal for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being across various traditions. In Tibetan Buddhism and Purana, Chakras symbolize spiritual centers aligned with divine energy. In Indian history, they are crucial for meditation and facilitating energy flow, as noted by Sri Ramakrishna and others. Science identifies these centers along the spine, linking them to health and wellness by corresponding with physical and mental states, influenced by yoga practices, gemstones, and marma therapy principles.1
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Synonyms: Wheel, Disc, Force, Vortex, Energy point, Life force, Spiritual center

In Malay: Cakra; In Dutch: Chakra; In German: Chakra; In Finnish: Chakra; In Spanish: Chakra; In Swedish: Chakra

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Chakra'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Chakra represents energy centers in the body that are linked to various dimensions of spiritual and physical health, emphasizing the connection between energy flow and overall well-being in the practice.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: The Six Yogas of Naropa

(1) Energy centers within the body that correspond to different aspects of spiritual and physical well-being.[1]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Chakra'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Chakra represents spiritual energy centers within the body, linked to universal energies and divine power, symbolizing a connection between the individual and the cosmos. These centers are vital for spiritual growth and worship.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Garuda Purana

(1) Spiritual centers or energy points in the body, often associated with divine power and worship.[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

The concept of Chakra in local and regional sources

History Books

Chakra refers to energy centers within the body that are integral to meditation and spiritual practices, facilitating energy flow, and are significant in Hindu philosophy, influencing consciousness and artistic expression through various mediums.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Energy centers in the body as per Hindu philosophy; mentioned by Lawrence in the context of exploring consciousness.[3] (2) Centers of energy in the context of meditation and spiritual practice, referenced from Sri Ramakrishna.[4] (3) Energy centers in the body that are aligned during meditation to facilitate smooth energy flow.[5] (4) A little review that Marcella Hardy co-founded, serving as a medium for the Authors' and Artists' Association to showcase literary and artistic works.[6]

Plural form: Chakras.