Bodily Transformation

In Sanskrit, the body is referred to as "śarīra" and "deha." Why are there two words for the same object?

1. śarīra (शरीर): This means "to break, to destroy, or to dissolve."

2. deha (देह): This refers to the living body, indicating growth in bodily tissues.

So “śarīra" indicates that which breaks down and deteriorates, while "deha" indicates that which grows. Both aspects are seen in the six changes that happen to the body.

The six changes of the body (ṣaḍ-vikāra)”

1. Asti: Existence - the body comes into being.

2. Jāyate: Birth - the body is born.

3. Vardhate: Growth - the body grows. (Deha)

4. Vipariṇamate: Transformation - the body undergoes changes.

5. Apakṣīyate: Decline - the body begins to decay or weaken. (śarīra)

6. Naśyati: Death - the body perishes.