Ishvara ≠ God

Episode 3 of the HAF's What's in a Word? podcast, hosted by Hindu American Foundation, titled "Ishvara ≠ God" was published on March 18, 2025 and runs 9 minutes.

March 18, 2025 ·9m · HAF's What's in a Word?

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Summary

What's in a word? A lot actually. English words like idol, god, and sacrifice are often used—without careful consideration—to translate Sanskrit words common in Hindu Dharmas. In doing so, quite a bit gets lost in translation.So what can we do about it? Educate!And HAF's Samir Kalra, Esq., and Dr. Vijay Satnarine, our Director of Education, are doing just that in our newest podcast, "What's in a Word?" In this series, Samir and Vijay dive into the meanings and histories behind some of these questionable translations.HAF's Samir Kalra and Dr. Vijay Satnarine explore the origins of the term "God." Originally from the old Germanic "got," it evolved from a neutral term meaning "something that receives offerings" into a singular, masculine creator concept influenced by Christian beliefs. This definition contrasts with Hindu views, where divinity is represented by Ishwara (a Supreme Being) and Brahman (the Ultimate Reality), neither confined to a single creator figure.So, what's a better alternative? Listen and find out!At HAF, we're changing the way we talk about Hindu Dharmas. Stay tuned as we tackle more everyday words in upcoming episodes! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description

So what can we do about it? Educate!

And HAF's Samir Kalra, Esq., and Dr. Vijay Satnarine, our Director of Education, are doing just that in our newest podcast, "What's in a Word?" In this series, Samir and Vijay dive into the meanings and histories behind some of these questionable translations.

HAF's Samir Kalra and Dr. Vijay Satnarine explore the origins of the term "God." Originally from the old Germanic "got," it evolved from a neutral term meaning "something that receives offerings" into a singular, masculine creator concept influenced by Christian beliefs. This definition contrasts with Hindu views, where divinity is represented by Ishwara (a Supreme Being) and Brahman (the Ultimate Reality), neither confined to a single creator figure.

So, what's a better alternative? Listen and find out!

At HAF, we're changing the way we talk about Hindu Dharmas. Stay tuned as we tackle more everyday words in upcoming episodes!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.