पुरोहित
purohita
The Sanskrit word for priest is पुरोहित (purohita).
पुरोहित refers to a priest who officiates various religious ceremonies, offers guidance in spiritual matters and assists in performing rituals. In a Vedic or ritual context, this term specifically refers to a family priest or a court priest who performs sacred rites and provides spiritual guidance.
Meaning: clergyman (clergywoman, clergyperson) (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of pūrvam (before/ahead) and hita (placed/set), literally meaning 'one who is placed in front'.
How do you pronounce it?
purohita
Did you know?
- The word 'priest' in Sanskrit is etymologically connected to the English word 'goad', which is a spike used to drive animals.
- In some Vedic traditions, the पुरोहित was responsible for the 'spiritual warfare' of a kingdom, performing rites to protect the state from metaphysical enemies.
- In ancient India, the पुरोहित was often the most powerful political advisor in a king's court, blending the roles of a spiritual leader and a prime minister.
Examples in context
- पुरोहितः यज्ञं करोति।purohitaḥ yajñaṃ karoti.The priest performs the sacrifice.
- अयं पुरोहितः अति कुशलः।ayaṃ purohitaḥ ati kuśalaḥ.This priest is very skilled.
Example conversation
A woman and a man are discussing an upcoming ceremony at a temple.
- ईशा Ishaकिं पुरोहितः अस्ति?kiṃ purohitaḥ asti?Is there a priest?
- विवान Vivaanआम्, पुरोहितः अत्र अस्ति।ām, purohitaḥ atra asti.Yes, the priest is here.
- ईशा Ishaतस्य नाम किम्?tasya nāma kim?What is his name?
- विवान Vivaanतस्य नाम देवदत्तः।tasya nāma devadattaḥ.His name is Devadatta.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries पुरोहित, CC BY-SA 4.0.
