santu

 The word "santu" in Devanagari script 

is written as सन्तु.

Details

• Pronunciation: In classical Sanskrit, it is pronounced 
• as /s̪ɐn̪.t̪u/ 

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• Meaning and Usage: The term “santu” comes from 
• Sanskrit, connected to the root "sant," meaning peaceful, 
• good, or virtuous. It is often used in Hindu names and can 
• signify saintliness or spiritual purity

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• Grammatical Note: In Sanskrit, सन्तु is also a third person 
• plural imperative form of the verb “to be,” meaning 
• “let them be” 

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In Sanskrit, "santu" is a third-person plural imperative 

form of the verb "to be," meaning "let them be" or 

"may they be," often used in blessings and mantras.

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Grammatical Explanation

• Form: Third person plural, present imperative, parasmaipada 
• (active voice)
• Root Verb: √as (to be)
• Usage: "Santu" is employed to express a wish or command 
• for multiple entities to exist or be in a desired state. For 
• example, it instructs or invokes wellbeing, peace, or positive 
• outcomes for groups or all beings 

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Examples in Texts

Shanti Mantra Context:

• Sanskrit: “सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः, सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः”
• Translation: “May all be happy; may all be free from infirmities.”
• Here, "santu" specifically conveys the wish that everyone 
• experiences perfect health 

Literature Usage:

• Appears in various Vedic and classical Sanskrit texts to invoke 
• protection, prosperity, or harmony for multiple subjects.

Summary

• Literal meaning: let them be / may they be
• Common usage: expressing wishes or blessings for the 
• well-being of many, often found in religious chants, rituals, 
• and mantras
• Contextual nuance: reflects a universal or collective desire 
• for peace, health, or suitability of circumstances 

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Thus, "santu" serves both a grammatical function as an imperative 

verb and a philosophical or spiritual function when appearing in 

Sanskrit prayers and texts, conveying inclusivity and goodwill 

toward all beings.