anārambaṇa

 Anārambaṇa is a Sanskrit term meaning 'without support' or 'unsupported,' referring to something that has no basis, point of touch, or tangible support, both in physical and metaphysical contexts.

Literal Definition

In Sanskrit, anārambaṇa (अनारम्भण) is derived as a negation of 

ārambhaṇa, meaning initiation, support, or starting point 

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Literally, anā- signifies "not" or "without," and ārambaṇa refers to a 

"support" or "basis." Thus, anārambaṇa conveys the state of 

being without support, not resting upon anything, or lacking a 

firm point of contact

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Context in Hinduism

In Vedic texts, such as the Śatapatha Brāhmaṇa and Bṛhad-āraṇyaka 

Upaniṣad, anārambaṇa is used to describe intangible entities or 

concepts that cannot be grasped or touched, such as space, ether,

or certain abstract metaphysical realities. It indicates intangible 

phenomena that are not supported by material or perceptible

reference

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Related Concepts

• Ārambaṇa / Alambana: The opposite of anārambaṇa; refers to 
• support, basis, or object of attention

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• Anālambana: Another related term signifying lack of support, 
• often used as a synonym for anārambaṇa 

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Summary

Broadly, anārambaṇa can be understood as:

Physically or literally:  Unsupported, intangible, or without a point 

of contact.

Metaphysically or philosophically: Denoting phenomena, meditation, 

or consciousness that exists without relying on any object, attachment, 

or perceptible reality.

This term bridges literal, philosophical, and meditative dimensions, 

making it significant in Hindu traditions.