ghanta

English

Etymology

Borrowed from Hindi घंटा (ghaṇṭā).

Noun

ghanta (plural ghantas)

1. (music) A type of bell, usually constructed of brass, used in Hindu rituals.
   • 1991, Chögyam Trungpa, The Heart of the Buddha, Shambhala Publications, page 123:

     The abhisheka of the ghanta, or bell, is the fourth abhisheka of the vase. Presenting the student with the ghanta signifies that he is not only concerned with personal realization but is also willing to proclaim the teachings for the benefit of others.

   • 2002, Bradley K. Hawkins, The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Buddhism, page 111:

     The ghantas are hand bells and represent the wisdom the practitioner is attempting to cultivate.

   • 2003, The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols, Serindia Publications, Inc, page 92:

     The ritual hand-bell or ghanta represents the feminine principle of the 'Perfection of Wisdom' (Skt. prajna-paramita), which directly realizes emptiness.

Anagrams

• agnath, Thanga