Saraswati Ashtottara Shatanamavali — Word-by-Word Meaning
सरस्वती अष्टोत्तर शतनामावली
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Complete Translation
The 108 names of Goddess Saraswati — the goddess of knowledge, speech, music and the arts, mother of the Vedas — each chanted with “Om” and “namaḥ”, recited for learning, wisdom and eloquence, especially on Vasant Panchami.
Origin & History
Source: Traditional
Author: Traditional
Period: Classical
The Saraswati Ashtottara Shatanamavali is a traditional garland of the 108 names of Saraswati. The 108 names of Goddess Saraswati — the goddess of knowledge, speech, music and the arts, mother of the Vedas — each chanted with “Om” and “namaḥ”, recited for learning, wisdom and eloquence, especially on Vasant Panchami.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Saraswati Ashtottara Shatanamavali?▼
The 108 names of Goddess Saraswati — the goddess of knowledge, speech, music and the arts, mother of the Vedas — each chanted with “Om” and “namaḥ”, recited for learning, wisdom and eloquence, especially on Vasant Panchami.
How is an Ashtottara Shatanamavali chanted?▼
It is chanted as an archana: each of the 108 names is recited with “Om” (ॐ) before it and “namaḥ” (नमः) after it, while offering a flower or a pinch of kumkum at the deity’s feet for each name. The complete garland is offered in one sitting, especially on Wednesdays and Vasant Panchami and during Vasant Panchami and Navaratri.
What does “Ashtottara Shatanamavali” mean?▼
“Ashtottara-shata” means “a hundred and eight” (108) and “namavali” means “a garland of names” — the sacred list of the 108 names of Saraswati, each a name of praise and meditation.
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