Aghori

/ɑːɡˈhoːri/ noun

Definition

A member of an esoteric Hindu sect that practices renunciation and unconventional spiritual disciplines.

Etymology

From Sanskrit 'aghora' (not terrible) based on 'a-' (not) plus 'ghora' (terrible). The Aghori sect emerged from tantric Hinduism, emphasizing direct paths to enlightenment through practices considered taboo by mainstream Hindu society.

Kelly Says

Aghoris are famous for meditating in cremation grounds and deliberately breaking social taboos—their philosophy is that enlightenment requires seeing past all fear and social conditioning, making them the 'punk rockers' of Hinduism in some ways.

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