Lokanātha

Lokanātha is a term in Hinduism and Buddhism that refers to the "Lord of the World". In Hinduism, it is often used as an epithet for deities such as Vishnu and Shiva. In Buddhism, it is used to refer to Buddha or a Bodhisattva who has achieved enlightenment but chooses to remain in the world to help others achieve the same.

Hinduism[edit | edit source]

In Hinduism, Lokanātha is a title given to deities who are considered protectors of the world. The term is most commonly associated with Vishnu, the preserver god in the Hindu trinity (Trimurti), and Shiva, the destroyer or transformer.

Vishnu[edit | edit source]

Vishnu is often referred to as Lokanātha in his role as the preserver and protector of the universe. He is believed to descend to earth in various avatars to restore dharma (cosmic order) when it is threatened.

Shiva[edit | edit source]

Shiva is also referred to as Lokanātha in recognition of his role as the destroyer or transformer. He is associated with the cycle of destruction and creation, and his worship often involves rites of death and rebirth.

Buddhism[edit | edit source]

In Buddhism, Lokanātha refers to a Bodhisattva who has achieved enlightenment but chooses to remain in the world to help others. This concept is particularly prominent in Mahayana Buddhism, where the ideal of the Bodhisattva is central.

In some traditions, the term Lokanātha is used to refer to Gautama Buddha himself, as the "Lord of the World" who attained enlightenment and then chose to teach others the path to liberation.