निवृत्ति
nivritti
The English phrase 'retreat' is translated into Sanskrit as निवृत्ति (nivritti).
निवृत्ति refers to the act of pulling back or withdrawing. In philosophical contexts, it can specifically denote the cessation of worldly activities or a withdrawal from material pursuits.
Meaning: act of pulling back or withdrawing (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed from the prefix ni- (meaning down or away) and the root √ṛ (meaning to go), literally translating to 'going away' or 'departure'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In North India, the term tapovan is commonly used to describe a place of spiritual retreat.
How do you pronounce it?
nivritti
Did you know?
- While निवृत्ति describes the act of withdrawing, a physical location for such a retreat is an आश्रम, which is the origin of the English word 'ashram'.
- The concept of निवृत्ति is a cornerstone of 'Sannyasa', a formal life stage where an individual renounces all social and material ties to seek spiritual liberation.
- In certain yogic traditions, the concept of निवृत्ति is the direct opposite of 'pravṛtti', which refers to the active pursuit of worldly duties and social engagement.
Examples in context
- अवस्थायाः निवृत्तिः दर्श्यते।avasthāyāḥ nivṛttiḥ darśyate.The withdrawal from the state is visible.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing their stress levels.
- मीरा Miraमीरा अतीव क्लांता अस्ति।mīrā atīva klāntā asti.Meera is very tired.
- आर्यन Aryanआर्यन, किम् त्वं निवृत्तिं इच्छसि?āryan, kim tvaṃ nivṛttiṃ icchasi?Aryan, do you want a retreat?
- मीरा Miraआम्, निवृत्तिः मह्यं रोचते।ām, nivṛttiḥ mahyaṃ rocate.Yes, a retreat appeals to me.
- आर्यन Aryanतर्हि वयं गच्छामः।tarhi vayaṃ gacchāmaḥ.Then let us go.
