Rakshanartha, Rakṣaṇārtha, Rakshana-artha: 2 definitions

Introduction
In Hinduism
1. Shaivism
2. Purana
See also

Introduction:

Rakshanartha means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

The Sanskrit term Rakṣaṇārtha can be transliterated into English as Raksanartha or Rakshanartha, using the IAST transliteration scheme (?).

In Hinduism

Shaivism (Shaiva philosophy)

Source: SOAS University of London: Protective Rites in the Netra Tantra

Rakṣaṇārtha (रक्षणार्थ) means “for the sake of protection”, according to the Netratantra of Kṣemarāja: a Śaiva text from the 9th century in which Śiva (Bhairava) teaches Pārvatī topics such as metaphysics, cosmology, and soteriology.—Accordingly, [verse 19.101cd-105ab, while describing the ritual that protect the king and his kingdom]—“Thus says Lord Siva, The Mantrin should worship Amṛteśa on all special occasions [and] on special dates in the form of Kāma [i.e., any deity that one wishes or is called for by a particular festival]. [He] shall always attain what he desires. He should worship [Amṛteśa] in the form of Indra in order to achieve the protection of the population (rakṣaṇārtha—prajānāṃ rakṣaṇārthāya), to assure [an abundance of] grains of rice, for the sake of protection in respect to wives and offspring, for the prosperity of his kingdom and for royal victory”.

context information

Shaiva (शैव, śaiva) or Shaivism (śaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes a range of scriptures, including Tantras, while the root of this tradition may be traced back to the ancient Vedas.

Purana and Itihasa (epic history)

Source: archive.org: Shiva Purana - English Translation

Rakṣaṇārtha (रक्षणार्थ) refers to “wishing for protection”, according to the Śivapurāṇa 2.5.6 (“Prayer to Śiva”).—Accordingly, as Brahmā said to Śiva: “[...] Although the Asuras have forsaken their duties and your worship, they cannot be killed by others. Hence, O great lord, the saviour of the lives of the gods and the sages, the Mlecchas shall be killed by you for the protection (rakṣaṇārtha) of the good. As it is the duty of a king, you will not be sinning by their destruction. Hence, the good people, brahmins etc shall be saved and the thorns uprooted. [...]”.

context information

The Purana (पुराण, purāṇas) refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Relevant text

Search found 9 books and stories containing Rakshanartha, Rakṣaṇa-artha, Raksana-artha, Rakṣaṇārtha, Raksanartha, Rakshana-artha; (plurals include: Rakshanarthas, arthas, Rakṣaṇārthas, Raksanarthas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

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