Sahasranama positions 486 and 497 of the 1,000 names

Mataye

मताय

Matāya

What Mataye means

Mataye is names 486 and 497 in the Kalabhairava Sahasranama, the 1,000-name devotional text to Kalabhairava. Salutations To The one who is the very embodiment of thought, wisdom, and intellect.

Also spelled

  • Mataya
  • Source transliteration: MATAYE

Sanskrit names travel into English in several romanizations. This page keeps the common spelling, the IAST form, and the source transliteration together so the same name is discoverable under each spelling readers use.

Name 486: MATAYE

Meaning: Salutations To The one who is the very embodiment of thought, wisdom, and intellect.

Elaboration

The name Mataye is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Mati'.

Etymological Roots of "Mati" 'Mati' (मति) in Sanskrit has a rich semantic field, primarily referring to: 1. Thought, understanding, comprehension. 2. Intelligence, wisdom, intellect. 3. Mind, faculty of spiritual perception. 4. Opinion, belief, conviction, resolve. 5. Counsel, advice.

Embodiment of Pure Intellect By addressing Kalabhairava as "Mataye," we acknowledge Him as the very embodiment of pure intellect, profound wisdom, and unerring thought. He is not merely possessing these qualities but is the quintessential essence of all informed perception and enlightened understanding. This signifies that all forms of knowledge, whether mundane or spiritual, ultimately emanate from Him.

Source of Wisdom and Discernment In this context, Kalabhairava represents the supreme source of discernment (Viveka) and intellectual clarity. He imbues beings with the capacity to think, analyze, and comprehend. For spiritual seekers, worshipping this aspect of Bhairava helps in sharpening their intellect, removing mental obscurities, and guiding them towards higher truths. He is the inner light that illuminates the path of knowledge and wisdom.

The Guiding Principle 'Mati' also implies firm resolve and conviction. As Mataye, Bhairava symbolizes the unwavering cosmic will and the definitive principle behind all existence. He is the ultimate counsel and the source of all right judgment, guiding the cosmic order and the individual soul. He represents the highest form of spiritual intelligence, which transcends mere academic knowledge and leads to direct realization.

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Name 497: MATAYE

Meaning: Salutations To The one who is supreme intelligence and guiding thought.

Elaboration

The name Matāyē stems from the Sanskrit word 'Mati' (मति).

Supreme Intelligence 'Mati' primarily denotes 'intellect,' 'understanding,' 'thought,' 'mind,' 'discernment,' 'judgment,' 'wisdom,' and 'supreme intelligence.' When applied to Kalabhairava, it signifies that He is the embodiment of ultimate cognitive power, the source of all knowledge, and the very fabric of cosmic intelligence that orchestrates the universe. He represents the highest form of consciousness, which is pure, undiluted, and all-pervasive.

Guiding Thought and Counsel Beyond mere intelligence, 'Mati' also implies 'counsel,' 'advice,' 'intention,' and 'resolve.' This aspect highlights Kalabhairava's role as the divine guide. He is the ultimate source of all good and guiding thoughts, helping individuals discern right from wrong, truth from illusion. For a devotee, invoking Him as Matāyē is seeking His divine guidance, resolution in complex situations, and the clarity of thought necessary to navigate life's challenges. He bestows the wisdom to make sound judgments and the resolve to follow the path of Dharma.

Foundation of All Cognition As the "one who is supreme intelligence," Kalabhairava is the foundational principle underlying all cognitive processes in the cosmos. Every thought, every idea, every invention, and every scientific discovery emanates ultimately from this supreme intelligence. He is the consciousness that illumines the intellect and mind of all beings.

In essence, Matāyē celebrates Kalabhairava not just as a powerful deity, but as the very essence of wisdom and the compassionate beacon that lights the path of understanding for all.

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Text and sources

The name list follows the Kalabhairava Sahasranama as compiled for this project. The English meaning and elaboration are interpretive notes for devotional study, not a translation of a single critical edition.

Read the editorial method and source notes →

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