भगवान्
bhagawān
The English word "God" is translated into Nepali as भगवान् (bhagawān).
Meaning: deity (noun)
Which one should you use?
While भगवान् is the common word for a deity, ईश्वर is often used in a more formal or philosophical context to refer to the Supreme Being or a monotheistic God. In contrast, देवता is specifically used to refer to a deity or a divine being, often in the context of polytheistic pantheons or specific celestial beings.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
bhagawān
Did you know?
- While देवता refers to a god, the word देवता is also used in Nepali to describe the specific physical locations, like shrines or stones, where a deity is believed to reside.
- In colloquial Nepali, people may use भगवान् as an exclamation of surprise or disbelief, functioning similarly to the English phrase 'Good Lord'.
- Despite the different words for god, Nepali often uses the same honorific verb forms for भगवान् as it does for living elders to show extreme respect.
Examples in context
- म प्रार्थना गर्छु ईश्वरलाई।I pray to God.
- ईश्वरले मलाई शक्ति दिनुभयो।God granted me strength.
- भगवान् शक्तिमान् हुनुहुन्छ।Bhagwan shaktimaan hunuhunchha.God is powerful.
- के भगवान् ले हाम्रो रक्षा गर्नुहुन्छ?Ke Bhagwan le hamro rakshya garnuhunchha?Does God protect us?
Example conversation
Two friends are sitting in a temple.
- सुमित Sumitयो मन्दिरमा भगवान् को मूर्ति छ।Yo mandirma Bhagwan ko murti chha.There is an idol of God in this temple.
- प्रतिक्षा Pratikshaहो, सुमित, म भगवान् लाई धेरै मान्छु।Ho, Sumit, ma Bhagwan lai dherai manchu.Yes, Sumit, I respect God very much.
- सुमित Sumitप्रतिक्षा, के तिमी प्रार्थना गर्छौ?Pratiksha, ke timi prarthana garchhau?Pratiksha, do you pray?
- प्रतिक्षा Pratikshaम हरेक बिहान प्रार्थना गर्छु।Ma harek bihana prarthana garchu.I pray every morning.
