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Significance of Dharani

Dharani is a multifaceted term across various spiritual traditions. In Buddhism, it generally refers to powerful mantras or incantations used for protection, spiritual guidance, and meditation, embodying the ability to retain and prevent negative influences. Dharani signifies the verbal expression of deep teachings that hold spiritual significance. Additionally, it aligns with concepts of grounding and stability and is essential for bodhisattvas in cultivating mental mastery. Overall, it encompasses sacred phrases that unite and maintain beneficial spiritual qualities.1
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Synonyms: Mantra, Chant, Incantation, Hymn

In Dutch: Dharani; In German: Dharani; In Finnish: Dharani; In Spanish: Dharani

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

Buddhist concept of 'Dharani'

Buddhism Books

Dharani in Buddhism embodies the ability to gather meanings, deep spiritual practices, protective spells, and the essence of mantras, aiding in understanding and retention of teachings while enhancing focus, awareness, and spiritual growth.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) A type of sacred utterance or incantation, part of the Mahamayuri vidya, used for protective and healing purposes.[1] (2) Possessions of bodhisattvas, which denote deep concentration and focus.[2] (3) A method or practice through which the bodhisattvas harness the power to see and hear teachings from the past.[3] (4) Dharani means 'capable of holding' or 'capable of preventing,' referring to the ability to retain beneficial teachings and prevent the arising of evil actions.[4] (5) Practices or codes of conduct that lead to mental mastery and are often associated with the attainment of certain skills and states in Buddhist practice.[5]

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) The concept that represents the ability to gather and hold all meanings and understandings.[6] (2) A Sanskrit term meaning 'uniting and holding', often referring to the protective mantra that embodies wisdom and realization.[7] (3) A Sanskrit term meaning 'to unite and maintain,' representing the Buddha's reward body which is perfect and embodies deep teachings.[8] (4) Meaning mantras, dharani are sacred phrases that encompass and uphold all dharmas, often employed in meditation and spiritual practice.[9]

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) Short verses or phrases that are believed to contain spiritual power and are used in meditation or rituals.[10] (2) A magical prayer or mystical syllable formation intended for various protective or beneficial purposes.[11] (3) Mystical sentences or mantras used in Buddhist practice, associated with Padmasambhava.[12]

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) A form of chant or mantra in Buddhism used to remember the teachings of the Buddha and aid in meditation.[13] (2) Mental and spiritual powers leading to profound focus and awareness in the practice and realization of Buddhist teachings.[14]

From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra

(1) The absolute control over good and evil influences that leads to fearlessness.[15]

From: Lankavatara Sutra

(1) A term used to refer to the sections of the Sutra concerning the protective spells and their significance.[16]

From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)

(1) Usually a magic spell or talisman; in this context, it refers to a sacred sound or formula that offers protection and support.[17]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) A type of mantra or chant that holds significant meaning in the context of tantric practices.[18]

Hindu concept of 'Dharani'

Hinduism Books

Dharani in Hinduism embodies multiple interpretations: as a caring queen, ritual phrases for protection, Earth鈥檚 personification engaging with Varaha, and symbolizing Earth's nurturing role, embodying strength through the triumph over Asuras.

Significance in Shaktism (Shakta philosophy):
Shaktism Books

From: Shakti and Shakta

(1) Phrases or sentences used in rituals and prayers for protection and spiritual assistance.[19]

Shakta or Shaktism (shaktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

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

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) Another appellation for the earth, suggesting its role in supporting and nurturing life, as symbolized by the defeat of many Asuras.[20]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 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.

Jain concept of 'Dharani'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Dharani is interpreted as the wife of King Rukmin, highlighting her significance through the lineage, as she is the mother of their daughter, illustrating familial connections within the religious narratives.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The wife of King Rukmin, through whom he had a daughter.[21]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, 鈥榮elf-reliance鈥�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.