saddhu
Definition
Noun: 1. (Hinduism) An ascetic holy man: A saddhu is a religious ascetic or mendicant in Hinduism who has renounced worldly and material pursuits to focus on achieving spiritual liberation (moksha). They are often characterized by their simple lifestyle, distinctive appearance (such as matted hair or ash-covered skin), and dedication to meditation, yoga, and pilgrimage.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The saddhu sat in deep meditation by the banks of the Ganges River.
- Many pilgrims travel to Varanasi to seek blessings from the saddhus.
- He renounced his former life to become a wandering saddhu.
Advanced Usage
- The term saddhu (also commonly spelled sadhu) is used not just as a descriptor but as a title of respect for such ascetics. It implies a person who is striving for truth and spiritual realization.
- In a broader, more figurative sense, it can sometimes be used to describe a person who lives with extreme simplicity and detachment, though this usage is less common.
Variants and Related Words
- Sadhu: The more common transliteration of the same Sanskrit word (साधु).
- Sannyasi (noun): A Hindu ascetic who has entered the final life stage of renunciation; a term often synonymous with saddhu.
- Ascetic (noun): A person who practices severe self-discipline and abstains from indulgence, typically for religious reasons. (This is a general term, while is specific to Hinduism.)
- Mendicant (noun): A beggar, especially one who begs for religious reasons.
Synonyms
- Holy man
- Ascetic
- Sannyasi
- Fakir (though this term is more associated with Sufi Muslim ascetics)
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To live like a saddhu: To live an extremely austere and simple life, renouncing material comforts.
- After his retirement, he sold his possessions and began to live like a saddhu.
Noun
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(Hinduism) an ascetic holy man
