aṅgha

 The Sanskrit word "aṅgha" (अङ्घ) primarily means "sin" or "evil" in classical Sanskrit texts, and is related to concepts of iniquity or moral wrongdoing.

Definitions and Context

In traditional Sanskrit dictionaries and Hindu literature, aṅgha (अङ्घ) 

is defined as:

• Sin or evil: It denotes moral wrongdoing or iniquity, and appears in texts 
• such as the Vājasaneyisaṃhitā and Harivaṃśa 

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• Derived form: The plural aṅghas refers collectively to sins or offenses 

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This word is often equated with agha, its synonym for evil or affliction. 

Certain lexicographers, including Amarasiṃha and Halāyudha, note its 

use in classical Sanskrit literature for ethical or religious contexts 

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Etymology

The term aṅgha is derived from Sanskrit roots associated with wrongdoing 

(aṅgh-, akin to agha). In some analyses, it is related to:

• Proto-Indo-European roots signifying “corner” or “bend,” though this 
• is largely linguistic and less relevant to its moral meaning in Sanskrit texts 

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• Classical sources indicate a connection to terms used in Vedic 
• rituals and prescriptive texts emphasizing dharma and adharma 
• (righteousness versus sin) 

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Usage

• Religious Texts: In Hindu and Jain texts, aṅgha signifies moral failings 
• that affect an individual spiritually.
• Linguistic Notes: As a Sanskrit nominal form, it appears in various 
• compounds and contexts describing unethical actions, in line with
• dharmic teachings 

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In summary, "aṅgha" refers to sin, moral guilt, or evil actions in Sanskrit,

with its usage anchored in religious, ethical, and literary traditions of India. 

It is a classical word appearing in ancient texts and dictionaries, primarily 

to describe acts contravening dharma 

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