HAF's What's in a Word?
Hindu American Foundation
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About This Podcast
What's in a word? A lot actually. English words like idol, god, and sacrifice are often used—without careful consideration—to translate Sanskrit words common in Hindu Dharmas. In doing so, quite a bit gets lost in translation.
So what can we do about it? Educate!
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Recent Episodes
Hindu teachings ≠ Scripture
In Episode 10 of our What's in a Word series, we talk about “scripture." Often we use "scripture" to describe our ancient texts. But that doesn't necessarily translate quite well.So what's a…
Spiritual traditions ≠ Religion
Does this English term truly capture the depth and diversity of Dharma? Many use “religion” as a catch-all, but is it the right fit for Hindu traditions? Watch the episode to uncover the…
Hindu lore ≠ Mythology
In Episode 8 of our What's in a Word series, we talk about the usage of the word “mythology" when describing stories from Hindu Dharma traditions. It's a word that gets used commonly equating it to…
Papa ≠ Sin
In Episode 7 of our What's in a Word series, we talk about “sin." Is there a proper translation for it? Many translate papa to be sin but is that really the best use? Watch the episode to find…
Atman ≠ Soul
In Episode 6 of our What's in a Word series, we talk about “soul." How well does it translate to the Hindu concept of "atman?"** SPOILER: NOT WELL. **In fact, "soul" is quite different from "atman."…
Yajna ≠ Sacrifice
What's in a word? A lot actually. English words like idol, god, and sacrifice are often used—without careful consideration—to translate Sanskrit words common in Hindu Dharmas. In doing so, quite a…
Devas ≠ Gods
What's in a word? A lot actually. English words like idol, god, and sacrifice are often used—without careful consideration—to translate Sanskrit words common in Hindu Dharmas. In doing so, quite a…
Ishvara ≠ God
What's in a word? A lot actually. English words like idol, god, and sacrifice are often used—without careful consideration—to translate Sanskrit words common in Hindu Dharmas. In doing so, quite a…
Murti ≠ Idol
What's in a word? A lot actually. English words like idol, god, and sacrifice are often used—without careful consideration—to translate Sanskrit words common in Hindu Dharmas. In doing so, quite a…
Puja ≠ Worship
What's in a word? A lot actually. English words like idol, god, and sacrifice are often used—without careful consideration—to translate Sanskrit words common in Hindu Dharmas. In doing so, quite a…
Frequently Asked Questions
HAF's What's in a Word? has published 10 episodes since March 2025, covering topics in Education, Hinduism.
HAF's What's in a Word? is currently dormant with new episodes weekly. Average episode length is 8m.
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