Sahasranama position 308 of the 1,072 names

Dhira

धीरा

Dhīrā

What Dhira means

Dhira is name 308 in the Adya Mahakali Sahasranama, the 1,072-name devotional text to Maa Kali. Steadfast, resolute, the courageous one whose wisdom remains unshaken.

Also spelled

  • Source transliteration: DHIRA

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.

Meaning and elaboration

Meaning: Steadfast, resolute, the courageous one whose wisdom remains unshaken.

Elaboration

The name Dhira means "steadfast," "resolute," "courageous," "wise," or "unshaken." When applied to Goddess Kali, it reveals her profound stability and unwavering presence amid the chaos and constant flux of existence.

Unwavering Wisdom (Prajñā) Dhira signifies that Kali's wisdom is neither fleeting nor subject to doubt. It is an eternal, unshakable insight into the true nature of reality. She sees beyond the illusions of the material world and remains established in the ultimate truth (Satya). This wisdom does not arise from mere intellectual understanding, but from direct and unmediated experience of the Absolute.

Resolute Action Her actions, though they may appear fierce and destructive, are always purposeful and grounded in this ultimate wisdom. Because she is Dhira, her resolve to uphold dharma (righteousness) and destroy adharma (unrighteousness) remains absolute and unwavering. There is no hesitation or compromise in her divine purpose.

Courage in the Face of Impermanence The Dhira aspect of Kali teaches humanity the meaning of true courage. It is not a courage that denies fear, but one that faces the impermanence of all things, including life and death, with unwavering conviction. She inspires her devotees to confront their deepest fears, doubts, and inner demons with that same resolute spirit.

The Pole Star of Consciousness In the vast and ever-changing cosmic ocean, Kali as Dhira is the unchanging pole star of consciousness. She is the fixed point around which all things revolve, an anchor for those who seek stability and truth amid the tumultuous waves of samsara (the cycle of birth and death). To invoke her as Dhira is to seek her unshakable presence within oneself, leading to mental and spiritual fortitude.

Text and sources

The name list follows the Adya Mahakali 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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