Akshara

Akshara is a Sanskrit word that translates to "imperishable," "undecaying," or "letter." In various Indian philosophies and spiritual traditions, it often refers to the fundamental, eternal, and unchanging essence of reality or consciousness. It can also denote the unmanifest, primordial sound from which the universe is believed to have originated.

In the context of language, particularly Sanskrit and its derivatives like Hindi and other Indic scripts, akshara specifically refers to a syllable or a character within the alphabet. These characters are considered immutable units of sound and meaning. The concept of akshara highlights the belief in the inherent power and permanence of language, suggesting that the sounds and symbols themselves possess a spiritual or cosmic significance. The study and chanting of aksharas are considered practices that can lead to spiritual realization and a deeper understanding of the universe.