108 Names Of Lord Vishnu ( Sri Vishnu Ashtottara Shatanamavali)

Lord Vishnu is one of the most revered deities in Hindu mythology. He is considered the preserver and protector of the universe.

The Sri Vishnu Ashtottara Shatanamavali, also known as the 108 Names of Lord Vishnu, is a sacred text that lists the various names and attributes of Lord Vishnu.

Chanting these names is believed to bring numerous benefits and blessings. In this article, we will explore the significance of Lord Vishnu, the meaning behind each name in the Ashtottara Shatanamavali, and the spiritual benefits of chanting the 108 names.

Key Takeaways

  • Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu is a powerful spiritual practice.
  • Each name in the Ashtottara Shatanamavali has a specific meaning and significance.
  • Chanting the names of Lord Vishnu can bring physical and mental health benefits.
  • The 108 names of Lord Vishnu can aid in spiritual growth and transformation.
  • By chanting the 108 names, one can receive protection and blessings from Lord Vishnu.

Introduction to Lord Vishnu

The significance of Lord Vishnu

Lord Vishnu is considered one of the most important deities in Hindu mythology. His name itself holds great significance, as it means 'the one who pervades everything'.

Vishnu is believed to be the preserver and protector of the universe, maintaining cosmic order and balance. He is often depicted with four arms, holding a conch shell, a discus, a mace, and a lotus flower, symbolizing his divine powers and attributes.

  • Lord Vishnu is associated with the qualities of compassion, mercy, and righteousness.
  • He is believed to have incarnated on Earth in various forms, known as avatars, to restore balance and protect humanity from evil forces.
  • Devotees of Lord Vishnu believe that chanting his 108 names, known as Ashtottara Shatanamavali, brings blessings, spiritual growth, and protection.
Lord Vishnu's significance in Hindu mythology cannot be overstated. His divine presence and actions serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for millions of devotees around the world.

The role of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology

Lord Vishnu is considered one of the most important deities in Hindu mythology. His role as the preserver and protector of the universe is highly revered.

He is believed to maintain cosmic order and ensure the balance between good and evil. Lord Vishnu is often depicted as resting on the serpent Shesha, with his consort Lakshmi by his side. His divine presence brings peace, stability, and harmony to the world.

In Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu is known for his various incarnations or avatars. Each avatar serves a specific purpose and represents different aspects of his divine power.

Some of the most well-known avatars include Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Narasimha. These avatars are revered for their heroic deeds, teachings, and ability to protect humanity from evil forces.

Table: The Avatars of Lord Vishnu

Avatar Description
Lord Rama The prince of Ayodhya who defeated the demon king Ravana
Lord Krishna The divine cowherd who delivered the Bhagavad Gita
Lord Narasimha The half-man, half-lion form who saved his devotee Prahlada

 

Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu is believed to invoke his divine blessings and bring spiritual upliftment. It is a way to connect with his divine energy and seek his guidance and protection.

The names are not just mere labels, but they represent the various qualities and attributes of Lord Vishnu. By chanting these names, devotees can cultivate these qualities within themselves and experience a deeper connection with the divine.

The 108 Names of Lord Vishnu

Understanding the concept of Ashtottara Shatanamavali

Ashtottara Shatanamavali is a Sanskrit term that translates to '108 names'. It is a sacred practice in Hinduism where devotees chant the 108 names of Lord Vishnu as a form of worship and devotion.

Each name carries a deep meaning and represents a different aspect of Lord Vishnu's divine qualities and attributes. The chanting of these names is believed to invoke the presence and blessings of Lord Vishnu, bringing spiritual upliftment and inner transformation. It is a powerful way to connect with the divine and experience a sense of peace and harmony in one's life.

Here is a table presenting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu:

No Sanskrit Name Name Mantra English Name Meaning
1 विष्णु ॐ विष्णवे नमः। Vishnu
All Prevailing Lord
2 लक्ष्मीपति ॐ लक्ष्मीपतये नमः। Lakshmipati
Consort of Goddess Lakshmi
3 कृष्ण ॐ कृष्णाय नमः। Krishna
Dark-Complexioned Lord
4 वैकुण्ठ ॐ वैकुण्ठाय नमः। Vaikuntha
Home of Lord Vishnu
5 गरुडध्वजा ॐ गरुडध्वजाय नमः। Garudadhwaja
Name of Lord Vishnu
6 परब्रह्म ॐ परब्रह्मणे नमः। Parabrahma
The Supreme Absolute Truth
7 जगन्नाथ ॐ जगन्नाथाय नमः। Jagannatha
Lord of the Universe
8 वासुदेव ॐ वासुदेवाय नमः। Vasudeva Indwelling God
9 त्रिविक्रम ॐ त्रिविक्रमाय नमः। Trivikrama
Conqueror of All the Three Worlds
10 दैत्यान्तका ॐ दैत्यान्तकाय नमः। Daityantaka
Destroyer of Evils
11 मधुरि ॐ मधुरिपवे नमः। Madhuri Sweetness
12 तार्क्ष्यवाहन ॐ तार्क्ष्यवाहनाय नमः। Taksharyavahana
Name of Lord Vishnu’s Carriage
13 सनातन ॐ सनातनाय नमः। Sanatana The Eternal Lord
14 नारायण ॐ नारायणाय नमः। Narayana
The Refuge of Everyone
15 पद्मनाभा ॐ पद्मनाभाय नमः। Padmanabha
The Lord Who has a Lotus Shaped Navel
16 हृषीकेश ॐ हृषीकेशाय नमः। Hrishikesha
The Lord of All Senses
17 सुधाप्रदाय ॐ सुधाप्रदाय नमः। Sudha pradaya
18 माधव ॐ माधवाय नमः। Madhava
Knowledge Filled God
19 पुण्डरीकाक्ष ॐ पुण्डरीकाक्षाय नमः। Pundarikaksha
The Lotus Eyed Lord
20 स्थितिकर्ता ॐ स्थितिकर्त्रे नमः। Sthitikarta
A name of Lord Vishnu
21 परात्परा ॐ परात्पराय नमः। Paratpara
Greatest amongst the greats
22 वनमाली ॐ वनमालिने नमः। Vanamali
One Who Wears a Garland of Forest Flowers
23 यज्ञरूपा ॐ यज्ञरूपाय नमः। Yagyaroopa
24 चक्रपाणये ॐ चक्रपाणये नमः। Chakrapanaye
25 गदाधर ॐ गदाधराय नमः। Gadadhara
One Who Holds a Mace (Gada)
26 उपेन्द्र ॐ उपेन्द्राय नमः। Upendra Brother of Indra
27 केशव ॐ केशवाय नमः। Keshava
He Who has Beautiful Locks of Hair
28 हंस ॐ हंसाय नमः। Hamsa
29 समुद्रमथन ॐ समुद्रमथनाय नमः।
Samudramathana
30 हरये ॐ हरये नमः। Hari
The Lord of Nature
31 गोविन्द ॐ गोविन्दाय नमः। Govinda
One Who Pleases the Cows and the Nature
32 ब्रह्मजनक ॐ ब्रह्मजनकाय नमः। Brahmajanaka
33 कैटभासुरमर्दनाय ॐ कैटभासुरमर्दनाय नमः।
Kaitabhasuramardana
34 श्रीधर ॐ श्रीधराय नमः। Shridhara Holder of Sri
35 कामजनकाय ॐ कामजनकाय नमः। Kamajanaka
36 शेषशायिनी ॐ शेषशायिने नमः। Sheshashayini
37 चतुर्भुज ॐ चतुर्भुजाय नमः। Chaturbhuja
Four-Armed Lord
38 पाञ्चजन्यधरा ॐ पाञ्चजन्यधराय नमः।
Panchajanyadhara
39 श्रीमत ॐ श्रीमते नमः। Shrimata
Name of Lord Vishnu
40 शार्ङ्गपाणये ॐ शार्ङ्गपाणये नमः। Sharngapana
41 जनार्दनाय ॐ जनार्दनाय नमः। Janardana
One Who Helps All Needy People – Like Compassion
42 पीताम्बरधराय ॐ पीताम्बरधराय नमः। Pitambaradhara
He Who Wears Yellow Garments
43 देव ॐ देवाय नमः। Deva Divine
44 सूर्यचन्द्रविलोचन ॐ सूर्यचन्द्रविलोचनाय नमः।
Suryachandravilochana
45 मत्स्यरूप ॐ मत्स्यरूपाय नमः। Matsyaroopa
Lord Matsya – An Incarnation of Lord Vishnu
46 कूर्मतनवे ॐ कूर्मतनवे नमः। Kurmatanave
47 क्रोडरूप ॐ क्रोडरूपाय नमः। Krodaroopa
48 नृकेसरि ॐ नृकेसरिणे नमः। Nrikesari
The Fourth Incarnation of Lord Vishnu
49 वामन ॐ वामनाय नमः। Vamana
The Dwarf Incarnation of Lord Vishnu
50 भार्गव ॐ भार्गवाय नमः। Bhargava
51 राम ॐ रामाय नमः। Rama
Seventh Incarnation of Lord Vishnu
52 बली ॐ बलिने नमः। Bali
The Lord of Strength
53 कल्कि ॐ कल्किने नमः। Kalki
Another Incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Will Appear at the End of Kaliyuga
54 हयानना ॐ हयाननाय नमः। Hayanana
55 विश्वम्भरा ॐ विश्वम्भराय नमः। Vishwambhara
56 शिशुमारा ॐ शिशुमाराय नमः। Shishumara
57 श्रीकराय ॐ श्रीकराय नमः। Shrikara
One Who Gives Sri
58 कपिल ॐ कपिलाय नमः। Kapila
The Great Sage Kapila
59 ध्रुव ॐ ध्रुवाय नमः। Dhruva
The Changeless in the Midst of Changes
60 दत्तत्रेय ॐ दत्तत्रेयाय नमः। Dattatreya
Grand Teacher (Guru) in the Universe
61 अच्युता ॐ अच्युताय नमः। Achyuta Infallible Lord
62 अनन्त ॐ अनन्ताय नमः। Ananta
The Endless Lord
63 मुकुन्द ॐ मुकुन्दाय नमः। Mukunda
The Giver of Liberation
64 दधिवामना ॐ दधिवामनाय नमः। Dadhivamana
65 धन्वन्तरी ॐ धन्वन्तरये नमः। Dhanvantari
A Partial Incarnation of Lord Vishnu Appeared After Churning of Ocean
66 श्रीनिवास ॐ श्रीनिवासाय नमः। Shrinivasa
The Permanent Abode of Shree
67 प्रद्युम्न ॐ प्रद्युम्नाय नमः। Pradyumna Very Rich
68 पुरुषोत्तम ॐ पुरुषोत्तमाय नमः। Purshottama
The Supreme Soul
69 श्रीवत्सकौस्तुभधरा ॐ श्रीवत्सकौस्तुभधराय नमः।
Shrivatsa koustubhadhara
70 मुरारात ॐ मुरारातये नमः। Murarata
71 अधोक्षजा ॐ अधोक्षजाय नमः। Adhokshaja
One Whose Vitality Never Flows Downwards
72 ऋषभाय ॐ ऋषभाय नमः। Rishabha
The Incarnation of Lord Vishnu When He Appeared as the Son of King Nabhi
73 मोहिनीरूपधारी ॐ मोहिनीरूपधारिणे नमः।
Mohiniroopadhari
74 सङ्कर्षण ॐ सङ्कर्षणाय नमः। Sankarshana
75 पृथवी ॐ पृथवे नमः। Prithvi
76 क्षीराब्धिशायिनी ॐ क्षीराब्धिशायिने नमः।
Kshirabdhishayini
77 भूतात्म ॐ भूतात्मने नमः। Bhutatma
A Name of Lord Vishnu
78 अनिरुद्ध ॐ अनिरुद्धाय नमः। Aniruddha
One Who Cannot Be Obstructed
79 भक्तवत्सल ॐ भक्तवत्सलाय नमः। Bhaktavatsala
One Who Loves His Devotees
80 नर ॐ नराय नमः। Nara The Guide
81 गजेन्द्रवरद ॐ गजेन्द्रवरदाय नमः। Gajendravarada
Lord Vishnu Gave a Benediction to Gajendra (Elephant)
82 त्रिधाम्ने ॐ त्रिधाम्ने नमः। Tridhamne
83 भूतभावन ॐ भूतभावनाय नमः। Bhutabhavana
84 श्वेतद्वीपसुवास्तव्याय ॐ श्वेतद्वीपसुवास्तव्याय नमः।
Shwetadwipasuvastavyaya
85 सनकादिमुनिध्येयाय ॐ सनकादिमुनिध्येयाय नमः।
Sankadimunidhyeyaya
86 भगवत ॐ भगवते नमः। Bhagavata
Pertaining to Lord (Bhagavan)
87 शङ्करप्रिय ॐ शङ्करप्रियाय नमः। Shankarapriya
88 नीलकान्त ॐ नीलकान्ताय नमः। Neelakanta
89 धराकान्त ॐ धराकान्ताय नमः। Dharakanta
90 वेदात्मन ॐ वेदात्मने नमः। Vedatmana
Spirit of the Vedas rests in Lord Vishnu
91 बादरायण ॐ बादरायणाय नमः। Badarayana
92 भागीरथीजन्मभूमि पादपद्मा ॐ भागीरथीजन्मभूमि पादपद्माय नमः।
Bhagirathi-janmabhumi-padapadma
93 सतां प्रभवे ॐ सतां प्रभवे नमः। Satam-prabhave
94 स्वभुवे ॐ स्वभुवे नमः। Swabhuve
95 विभव ॐ विभवे नमः। Vibhava
Glory & Richness
96 घनश्याम ॐ घनश्यामाय नमः। Ghanashyama Lord Krishna
97 जगत्कारणाय ॐ जगत्कारणाय नमः। Jagatkaranaya
98 अव्यय ॐ अव्ययाय नमः। Avyaya
Without Destruction
99 बुद्धावतार ॐ बुद्धावताराय नमः। Buddhavatara
An Incarnation of Lord Vishnu
100 शान्तात्म ॐ शान्तात्मने नमः। Shantatma
101 लीलामानुषविग्रह ॐ लीलामानुषविग्रहाय नमः।
Lila-manusha-vigraha
102 दामोदर ॐ दामोदराय नमः। Damodara
Whose Stomach is Marked With Three Lines
103 विराड्रूप ॐ विराड्रूपाय नमः। Viradroopa
104 भूतभव्यभवत्प्रभ ॐ भूतभव्यभवत्प्रभवे नमः।
Bhootabhavyabhavatprabha
105 आदिदेव ॐ आदिदेवाय नमः। Adideva
The Lord of the Lords
106 देवदेव ॐ देवदेवाय नमः। Devadeva
The God of the Gods
107 प्रह्लादपरिपालक ॐ प्रह्लादपरिपालकाय नमः।
Prahladaparipalaka
108 श्रीमहाविष्णु ॐ श्रीमहाविष्णवे नमः। Shrimahavishnu
Name of Lord Vishnu

 

Additionally, here are some key points to understand about Ashtottara Shatanamavali:

  • The names are often recited in a specific order, with each name being chanted individually.
  • The names highlight Lord Vishnu's various forms, qualities, and accomplishments.
  • Chanting the 108 names is believed to bring blessings, protection, and spiritual growth to the devotee.

In conclusion, Ashtottara Shatanamavali is a sacred practice that allows devotees to connect with the divine energy of Lord Vishnu through the chanting of his 108 names. It is a powerful spiritual tool that can bring about positive changes in one's life and deepen their devotion to Lord Vishnu.

Exploring the meaning behind each name

Each of the 108 names of Lord Vishnu holds deep significance and represents a unique aspect of his divine nature. One such name is 'Hari', which means the remover of sins and the one who brings happiness. This name signifies Lord Vishnu's role as the ultimate protector and savior of humanity.

To gain a deeper understanding of the other names, let's explore a few more:

  1. 'Narayana' - The one who resides in all beings and is the ultimate refuge.
  2. 'Govinda' - The one who gives joy to the cows and senses.
  3. 'Madhava' - The consort of the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

These names reflect Lord Vishnu's various qualities, attributes, and divine manifestations. Chanting each name with devotion and understanding can invoke the corresponding divine energy and bring blessings into our lives.

Remember, the 108 names of Lord Vishnu are not just a collection of words, but a powerful spiritual practice that can lead to profound transformation and spiritual growth.

The spiritual significance of chanting the 108 names

Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed that each name represents a unique aspect of Lord Vishnu's divine qualities and attributes. By chanting these names, devotees can connect with the divine energy of Lord Vishnu and experience a deep sense of peace, harmony, and spiritual upliftment.

Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu can:

  • Invoke blessings and divine grace
  • Purify the mind and cleanse negative energies
  • Enhance concentration and focus
  • Promote self-discipline and inner strength
  • Cultivate devotion and surrender to the divine

It is said that chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu with sincerity and devotion can lead to spiritual growth, transformation, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

In addition to the spiritual benefits, chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu also has a profound impact on one's overall well-being. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and promote physical and mental health. Regular chanting of these names can bring about a sense of inner peace, balance, and harmony in one's life.

Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu is a powerful spiritual practice that allows devotees to connect with the divine presence and experience the infinite love and compassion of Lord Vishnu. It is a sacred journey of self-discovery, transformation, and divine union.

Benefits of Chanting the 108 Names

Physical and mental health benefits

Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu has numerous physical and mental health benefits. One key benefit is that it helps in reducing stress and anxiety. The rhythmic chanting of the names creates a calming effect on the mind and helps in releasing tension.

Additionally, chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu improves concentration and focus. It helps in clearing the mind of distractions and promotes a sense of clarity and mental stability.

Moreover, regular chanting of these names is believed to have a positive impact on overall well-being. It is said to enhance energy levels, boost immunity, and improve the functioning of various bodily systems.

In summary, chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu not only has spiritual significance but also provides significant physical and mental health benefits.

Spiritual growth and transformation

Spiritual growth and transformation are the core benefits of chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu. By regularly chanting these sacred names, individuals can experience a deep connection with the divine and embark on a journey of self-discovery. The repetition of these names helps to purify the mind, dissolve negative patterns, and cultivate inner peace and harmony.

Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu also facilitates spiritual transformation by awakening higher consciousness and expanding one's spiritual awareness. It serves as a powerful tool for personal growth, enabling individuals to transcend their limitations and align with their true nature.

In addition, the chanting of these names instills virtues such as devotion, humility, and gratitude. It fosters a sense of surrender and trust in the divine, allowing individuals to surrender their ego and connect with the divine presence within and around them.

To fully experience the spiritual growth and transformation that chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu offers, it is important to approach the practice with sincerity, reverence, and an open heart.

Protection and blessings from Lord Vishnu

Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu not only offers protection but also brings forth abundant blessings. The divine vibrations created by the chanting act as a shield against negative energies and provide a sense of security.

Additionally, the names of Lord Vishnu are believed to hold immense power and invoking them through chanting can bring about positive changes in one's life.

Moreover, chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu is said to bestow divine blessings upon the devotee.

It is believed that by regularly chanting these names with devotion and sincerity, one can experience spiritual growth and transformation. The names of Lord Vishnu are associated with his various qualities and attributes, and by chanting them, one can imbibe these qualities and cultivate a deeper connection with the divine.

To summarize, chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu offers both protection and blessings.

It acts as a spiritual shield and brings forth positive changes in one's life. By invoking the divine names of Lord Vishnu, devotees can experience spiritual growth, transformation, and a deeper connection with the divine.

How to Chant the 108 Names

Preparing for the chanting

Before you begin chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu, it is important to prepare yourself mentally and spiritually. Here are a few steps to help you get ready:

  1. Find a quiet and peaceful place where you can chant without any distractions.
  2. Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight and your eyes closed.
  3. Take a few deep breaths to relax your mind and body.
  4. Clear your mind of any negative thoughts or distractions.
  5. Set an intention for your chanting, whether it is for spiritual growth, seeking blessings, or expressing gratitude.
  6. You may choose to light a candle or incense to create a sacred atmosphere.

    Remember, the key to effective chanting is to be fully present in the moment and to chant with devotion and sincerity.

    Chanting techniques and practices

    When it comes to chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu, there are various techniques and practices that can enhance the spiritual experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

    • Mantra repetition: The chanting of each name should be done with utmost devotion and focus, repeating each name with sincerity and reverence.
    • Breath control: Paying attention to the breath while chanting can help create a sense of calm and centeredness, allowing for a deeper connection with the divine.
    • Meditative state: Chanting the names of Lord Vishnu can be a form of meditation, where one can enter a state of deep concentration and inner peace.

    Remember, the purpose of chanting the 108 names is not just to recite them mechanically, but to truly connect with the divine energy of Lord Vishnu and experience his presence in our lives.

    Creating a sacred space for the chanting

    Creating a sacred space for the chanting is an important aspect of the practice. It helps to create a conducive environment for connecting with the divine energy of Lord Vishnu. Here are some suggestions to create a sacred space:

    1. Choose a quiet and clean area: Find a peaceful corner in your home where you can perform the chanting without any distractions. Keep the space clean and clutter-free to maintain a serene atmosphere.
    2. Set up an altar: Create a small altar or sacred space dedicated to Lord Vishnu. You can place a picture or idol of Lord Vishnu, along with other sacred objects like flowers, incense, and a lamp.
    3. Use sacred symbols: Decorate the space with sacred symbols associated with Lord Vishnu, such as the Sudarshana Chakra or the conch shell. These symbols help to invoke the presence and blessings of Lord Vishnu.
    4. Light a candle or lamp: Lighting a candle or lamp during the chanting adds a sacred and divine ambiance to the space. It symbolizes the presence of divine light and dispels darkness.

      Remember, creating a sacred space is a personal choice, and you can customize it according to your preferences and beliefs. The key is to create an environment that helps you focus and connect with the divine energy of Lord Vishnu.

      Conclusion

      In conclusion, the 108 names of Lord Vishnu, also known as Sri Vishnu Ashtottara Shatanamavali, hold great significance in Hindu mythology. Each name represents a different aspect of Lord Vishnu's divine qualities and attributes.

      Devotees chant these names to seek blessings, protection, and guidance from Lord Vishnu. By understanding and reciting these names, one can deepen their spiritual connection with the divine and experience the grace and blessings of Lord Vishnu.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is the significance of Lord Vishnu?

      Lord Vishnu is considered the preserver and protector in Hindu mythology. He maintains the balance of the universe and ensures the continuity of life.

      What is Ashtottara Shatanamavali?

      Ashtottara Shatanamavali is a Sanskrit term that translates to '108 names'. It refers to a devotional practice of chanting the 108 names of a deity, in this case, Lord Vishnu.

      What is the meaning behind each name of Lord Vishnu?

      Each name of Lord Vishnu carries a specific meaning and represents a different aspect of his divine nature. These names reflect his qualities, attributes, and divine powers.

      What are the spiritual benefits of chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu?

      Chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu is believed to purify the mind, awaken spiritual consciousness, and bring inner peace. It can also help in seeking the blessings and grace of Lord Vishnu.

      Can chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu bring physical and mental health benefits?

      Yes, chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu can have positive effects on physical and mental health. It can reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote overall well-being.

      How can I create a sacred space for chanting the 108 names of Lord Vishnu?

      To create a sacred space, find a quiet and clean area where you can sit comfortably. You can decorate the space with flowers, incense, and an image or idol of Lord Vishnu. It is also beneficial to cleanse the space with a purifying ritual or prayer.

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