shastra

[ shahs-truh ]

noun

1. any of the sacred books of Hinduism.

shastra

/ ˈʃɑːstrə; ˈʃɑːstə /

noun

1. any of the sacred writings of Hinduism

Other Words From

• shastrik shas·tra·ik [shah-, strey, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of shastra¹

First recorded in 1620–30, shastra is from the Sanskrit word śāstra

Word History and Origins

Origin of shastra¹

C17: from Sanskrit śāstra, from śās to teach

Example Sentences

Eventually, she became the head of the school, developing a rigorous conditioning program that includes elements of yoga, martial arts, exercises found in the Natya Shastra — a surprisingly detailed ancient Sanskrit treatise laying out the principles of the classical performing arts — and even some ballet and Pilates.

From New York Times

One brief delay occurred when Indian officials pointed out that Singapore’s first blueprint for the city did not align with vastu shastra, an ancient Hindu system of architecture designed to achieve harmony with nature.

From Los Angeles Times

She mentors young female composers through Luna Lab, and is the co-artistic director of Shastra, a nonprofit organization that promotes musical connections between Indian and Western traditions.

From Los Angeles Times

Heather explained how its architecture follows the elements of vastu shastra, the Indian version of feng shui.

From Washington Post

Though the Hindu Puranas and the Dharma Shastra clearly dictate that believers older than 2 be cremated, that isn’t always the practice, according to Amy Allocco, professor of religious studies at Elon University.

From Slate