siddhi

Siddhi is a Sanskrit word meaning attainment or perfection. In Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, it refers to powers or accomplishments believed to arise through disciplined practice, concentration, and ethical living. The idea appears in ancient scriptures and has been interpreted differently across traditions.

In Hindu traditions and yoga, siddhis are often described as "perfections" that may emerge with deep meditation and mastery of mind, breath, and senses. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras acknowledge their possible occurrence but warn that pursuing them can hinder true liberation. Lists of siddhis vary, but eight are commonly cited: anima (shrinking), mahima (greatness), laghima (lightness), garima (heaviness), prapti (attainment or knowledge), prakamya (fulfillment of desires), ishita (control over natural forces), and vasita (influence over others). Some schools also include parakaya pravesha (entering another’s body).

In Jainism, siddhi usually denote powers gained by ascetic practice on the path to liberation. The ultimate siddhi is moksha, the soul’s release as a siddha, with supernatural powers regarded as incidental to enlightenment.

In Buddhism, the related term is iddhi or iddha, powers attained through concentration. These abilities are possible but not the aim; wisdom and ethical conduct remain central.

In modern usage, siddhi is used to describe both traditional spiritual powers and proclaimed extraordinary abilities in yoga communities. Many teachers caution that the true aim of practice is self-realization, not power.