apavanas

Apavanas is a term derived from Sanskrit, often translated as "unclean," "impure," or "polluted." In Hindu religious and philosophical contexts, it refers to states or substances that are considered ritually or spiritually impure. This impurity is not necessarily equivalent to moral sin but rather a lack of purity that can hinder spiritual practices or interactions with the divine.

Various things can be considered apavanas, depending on the specific tradition and context. Common examples include bodily excretions, contact with dead bodies, certain animals, and specific types of food or drink. The concept of apavanas is closely linked to the idea of ritual purity, known as shaucha, which is essential for many Hindu rituals, worship, and even social interactions.

To counteract apavanas, practices such as bathing, washing, chanting, and performing specific rituals are employed. The aim is to restore a state of purity, enabling individuals to engage more effectively in spiritual pursuits and maintain their connection with the sacred. The concept is multifaceted, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions, and its interpretation can vary across different schools of Hindu thought.