añjalika

 "Añjalika" in Sanskrit can refer to one of Arjuna’s legendary 

arrows, a young mouse, or symbolically to an offering 

of reverence derived from the root ‘añjali.’

Literal and Cultural Meanings

Arrow in Hindu Epics: 

In the Mahābhārata, Añjalika (अञ्जलिक) is named as one of the mighty 

arrows of Arjuna, the Pandava prince. Some interpretations describe

it as a powerful arrow gifted by the gods, capable of defeating formidable 

opponents like Karna 

2

. The arrow is sometimes described as 

“half-moon shaped” or representing a special type of weapon in battle

Derived from “Añjali”: 

Etymologically, añjalika comes from the Sanskrit root añjali, which refers

to the gesture of folding or raising the hands in a sign of respect, devotion, 

or greeting (as in the anjali mudra). With the suffix -ka/-ikā, añjalika 

can convey meanings like “one who offers reverence” 

or “little offering”

1

 . In contemporary naming practices in India 

and Sri Lanka, this interpretation often emphasizes qualities of grace,

devotion, and piety

Other Meanings:

Classical Sanskrit dictionaries list additional, context-dependent meanings 

of añjalika:

• A small mouse or youthful mouse, sometimes used metaphorically
• in literature 

  2

  .
• An insect of the spider tribe or the sensitive plant Mimosa Pudica,
• highlighting the word’s flexibility in botanical and zoological contexts

Summary

• Primary Epic Context: A divine or powerful arrow of Arjuna in the
• Mahābhārata.
• Devotional Root Context: Derived from añjali, symbolizing reverence
• or offering.
• Other Contexts: Young mouse, spider-like insect, or sensitive plant
• depending on classical sources 

  2

  .
• 

  

  2 Sources
• 
  

Thus, añjalika carries both literal and symbolic layers, connecting 

martial epic tradition with spiritual and natural world references in 

Sanskrit literature. It demonstrates how a single Sanskrit term can 

blend mythical, devotional, and natural meanings within cultural texts.