व्रत
vratá/ʋɾɐ.tɐ́/neuter
In Sanskrit, the English phrase 'vow' is translated as व्रत (vratá).
A vow is a solemn promise to perform some act, or behave in a specified manner. The word Vratam (व्रतम्) is a formal way to say vow, signifying a solemn promise or religious observance and Pranidhanam (प्रणिधानम्) is a formal term denoting a dedicated resolution, especially related to spiritual or religious practices.
Meaning: a solemn promise to perform some act, or behave in a specified manner (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ʋɾɐ.tɐ́/.
Did you know?
- In ancient Indian texts, व्रत could refer to a cosmic law or a fixed order of the universe, rather than just a personal promise.
- In a spiritual context, व्रत does not just mean a promise but often refers to a specific period of fasting or self-discipline to achieve a goal.
Examples in context
- Mauna Pranidhanam (मौन प्रणिधानम्)Taking a vow of silence during a meditation retreat
- मम एकं व्रतम् अस्ति।mama ekaṃ vratam asti.I have a vow.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing their spiritual practices.
- विवान Vivaanईशा, त्वं किं व्रतम् अकरोः?īśā, tvaṃ kiṃ vratam akaroḥ?Isha, what vow did you take?
- ईशा Ishaअहं मौनस्य व्रतम् अकरवम्।ahaṃ maunasya vratam akaravam.I took a vow of silence.
- विवान Vivaanएतत् व्रतम् अति कठिनम् अस्ति।etat vratam ati kaṭhinam asti.This vow is very difficult.
- ईशा Ishaआम्, विवान, परन्तु एतत् आवश्यकम् अस्ति।ām, vivāna, parantu etat āvaśyakam asti.Yes, Vivan, but it is necessary.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “vow” translations and entries व्रत, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries व्रत, CC BY-SA 4.0.
