anulepaka

 Anulepaka (अनुलेपक) in Sanskrit refers to “one who anoints the body with unguents” or more broadly to unction, anointing, or smearing with oil or herbal preparations.

Definition and Etymology

The term anulepaka is derived from the Sanskrit roots: anu (following,

along) and lip (to smear or apply), forming anu-lipaka, literally meaning 

“one who smears or applies substances”

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Grammatically, it is a masculine noun (अनुलेपकः) and can also refer

to the act of unction or the ointment used for the purpose

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Contextual Usage

Hindu and Shaiva Tradition: In Shaivism texts like the Matsyendrasaṃhitā, 

anulepa refers to the anointing of divine images or practitioners with 

sacred oils and ointments, often symbolizing purification or blessing 

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. For example, visualizations include Śakti being anointed with 

divine unguents (divya-anulepa), reflecting beauty, grace, and

spiritual sanctity

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Ayurvedic and Cosmetic Use:  In Ayurveda, anulepa or anulepaka 

pertains to topical application of herbal oils, pastes, or salves for 

medicinal or cosmetic purposes

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. This aligns with its general meaning as unction, smearing, or

using ointments.

Synonyms and Related Forms

• Anulepana: The act of smearing or unction
• Anulepa: Unguent or smeared substance
• Divya-anulepa: Divine ointment or sacred anointing

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Summary

• Literal meaning: One who anoints or smears with unguents
• Grammatical role: Masculine noun, can also denote the ointment itself
• Applications: Religious rituals, personal grooming, Ayurvedic
• treatments, tantric visualizations

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• Associated concepts: Purification, beautification, divine blessing
• through anointing
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In essence, anulepaka encapsulates the Sanskrit concept of physical 

or ceremonial anointing, emphasizing both the agent and the substance

used for smearing or unction.