Dvarapala is a noun that refers to a figure often found in Hindu temples or shrines that guards the entrance. It is derived from the Sanskrit words dvara meaning door or entrance and pala meaning guard. In general, it can be said to refer to a guardian or keeper of the entrance of a place. Synonyms include protector, keeper, gatekeeper, custodian, sentinel, lookout, warden and watchman. Antonyms include intruder, invader and destroyer. Cognates include the Russian dverg and the Latin custodia. Variants include dvara-pala, dawaru-pala and dvara-palli.
Etymological origins, morphological analysis, Indo-Aryan linguistics, comparative linguistics, Sanskrit language, semantic change.
The word “Dvarapala”, often seen in the context of Hindu architecture, is etymologically derived from the Sanskrit “dvara”, meaning “gate”, and “pala” meaning “guardian”. It is believed to have been in existence since ancient times. The original meaning of the term referred to the guardians of the gateway or entrance of a temple, and it is this concept that continues to be used in the modern context. As far as the morphological and etymological evolution of the word is concerned, it has undergone various changes over the passing centuries. The word itself is found in many ancient Hindu texts, such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, where it was used to refer to the spirits guarding the entrances to the temples or shrines, and also to the guardians of the gods. In terms of practical usage, the term has been adopted by Hindu temples, many of which now have Dvarapala figures that stand guard at the entrance of the temple.
Etymology, Morphology, Dvarapala, Historical, Pragmatics
Dvarapala is a concept found in Hindu and Buddhist architecture, generally associated with a guardian figure at the entrance of a temple. The guardian figure is typically portrayed as a fierce warrior, a protector of the temple and its occupants. The term is derived from two Sanskrit words dvara meaning gate, and pala meaning guardian. In other words, Dvarapala can be translated as a gatekeeper.
In Buddhist and Hindu traditions, equivalent terms for Dvarapala include Bhairava, Rakshasa, Kalabhairava, Vighnaraja, Dharmapala, Vyaghrapada, Nandi, Tatpurusha, and Yaksha. In Chinese, dvarapala is referred to as menlian zhishi, meaning gate-stopp
Dvarapala is a guardian deity in Hindu and Buddhist architecture. They are typically depicted as large, muscular statues, wielding clubs or swords, and are often placed to guard the entrance of Hindu temples. In many temples, Dvarapalas are flanked by two smaller statues of their attendants. The purpose of the Dvarapala is to protect the temple from evil forces, and to protect the devotees who enter the temple. Dvarapala are typically made of stone and are often beautifully carved, often with intricate designs and often with a fierce expression. The placement of Dvarapala in the temple is an important part of Hindu temple architecture, and often, the Dvarapala are considered as important as the temple shrine itself.
Hindu architecture, Buddhist architecture, guardian deity, temple entrance, protection, stone statue, intricate design.
A Dvarapala is an ornamental protective deity commonly found in Hindu and Buddhist temples. It is often depicted in a guardian posture, with two arms crossed over the chest. The sculptures were typically carved from stone, wood, or metal, and were usually placed at the entrance of the temple as a guardian. The deity commonly appear as a warrior, a guardian spirit, or a deity of divine protection, although they may also be portrayed as a goddess or a demon. The appearance of the Dvarapala can vary greatly, from a lion-like figure to a fierce deity with a club or a sword, or as a guardian angel.
Dvarapala, Hindu temple, protector deity, ornamentation, guardian sculpture.
CITATION : "Lauren Moore. 'Dvarapala.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=191985 (Accessed on April 25, 2025)"
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