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Sādhaka

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions | 1997 | 559 words | Copyright

Sādhaka (Skt.). In a general sense the practitioner of a spiritual path (sādhana), though the term has a more precise technical meaning in the Āgamas and Tantras as one who has undergone a certain kind of initiation (dīkṣa) and who follows a certain path. The sādhaka's practice comprises mantra repetition (japa), visualization (dhyāna) of his chosen deity (iṣṭadevatā), and observance of certain daily rites. After repeated practice he becomes one with his mantra and deity, and so gains power.

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JOHN BOWKER. "Sādhaka." The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. 13 Feb. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

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