What Does “Anahata” Mean?

While at a workshop at The Expanding Light, I learned the word "anahata." It is described in my notes as "the sound of the unstruck bell," and the teacher referred to it in terms of learning to anticipate what you need, when or even just before you need it (a deep internal listening.) I have submitted an article, which is being considered for publication in which I used this word. The senior editor has asked about it. I believe that it is a sanscrit word, but I can't find it in my reference books. Can anyone verify for me the language that this word comes from and the meaning attached to it, if different from the one that I have come to understand. With Deepest Thanks, Beth

ANSWERS:

From Gyandev:

I'll just jump directly in on this one. Anahata means "unstruck." That longer phrase that Nischala used is a common, extended, spiritual interpretation of the word rather than its literal meaning. Anahata is Sanskrit, and it is the name of the fourth (heart) chakra. Interestingly, this chakra has the subtle sound of a deep gong bell, which one learns to hear via the AUM Technique, the second in Yogananda's sequence of meditation techniques.

Blessings, Gyandev

From Savitri:

Hi Beth, Anahat or anahata is definitely a Sanskrit word and is most commonly used to designate the heart chakra (4th chakra or dorsal spinal center). It does indeed mean "un-struck" as in an un-struck bell. When you can hear the AUM vibration in the heart chakra is sounds like a deep gong or bell(s) ringing. Good luck with your article. Love, Savitri

From Preston Sult:

Dear Beth,

Anahata chakra is the heart chakra, the psychic/pranic center located in the region of the heart and cardiac plexus, fourth chakra in human evolution. Best wishes and many blessings, Preston Sult